10 Most Valuable Morgan Dollars

What are the most valuable Morgan silver dollars? The most valuable Morgan dollars are key-date and low-mintage coins, including the 1893-S, 1889-CC, 1895, and Carson City issues, especially in Mint State or certified condition. 

Rarity, survival rates, historical significance, and collector demand determine value, with high-grade examples often commanding six-figure prices.

Morgan silver dollars are among the most iconic and widely collected coins in U.S. numismatic history, prized for their artistry, historical significance, and silver content. 

Whether you’re beginning a collection or looking to capitalize on rare finds, understanding which coins hold the highest value is essential.

If you’d like to learn the true value of your Morgan dollars or plan to sell Morgan dollars in the near future, reach out to Coinfully. Our numismatic experts will be happy to speak with you and provide a free appraisal and competitive offer.

A Quick Glimpse of the Most Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars Today

While millions of Morgan silver dollars were minted between 1878 and 1921, only a small fraction stand out as exceptionally rare and valuable. 

Factors such as low mintages, mint locations, survival rates, and condition have made certain dates in the Morgan dollar series true treasures among collectors. 

Below is a quick look at the 10 most valuable Morgan silver dollars, each known for its scarcity and numismatic prestige.

• 1893-S Morgan Dollar: $3,000–$1,250,000
• 1884-S Morgan Dollar: $34–$1,250,000
• 1889-CC Morgan Dollar: $425–$1,200,000
• 1895-O & 1895-S Morgan Dollar: $150–$700,000
• 1895 Morgan Dollar: $32,500–$175,000
• 1893-CC Morgan Dollar: $220–$142,500
• 1885-CC Morgan Dollar: $440–$130,000
• 1894 Morgan Dollar: $525–$125,000
• 1903-S Morgan Dollar: $85–$120,000
• 1879-CC Morgan Dollar: $150–$90,000 

1893-S Morgan Dollar

The 1893-S Morgan dollar is one of the most coveted dates in the entire coin series because so few coins were minted and even fewer survived in uncirculated condition. 

Its historical significance stems from economic strain that limited production at the San Francisco mint. Mint State examples with strong mint luster are extremely scarce, and any certified example above XF is prized by coin collectors and serious coin enthusiasts.

Quick Breakdown: 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar

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1884-S Morgan Dollar

The 1884-S Morgan dollar is famous for its low number of surviving high-grade specimens. Most coins circulated heavily, making Mint State examples exceptionally desirable. 

When found in true uncirculated condition, this date shows an attractive mint luster that stands out within the Morgan series. Its rarity in upper grades makes it a true gem.

Quick Breakdown: 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar

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1889-CC Morgan Dollar

The 1889-CC Morgan dollar is the most coveted Carson City Morgan of all, largely due to its low mintage and the destruction of large quantities when Morgan dollars were melted under the Pittman Act. 

Collectors value its strong connection to the Carson City mint, and even circulated pieces command premium prices. Any Mint State certified example is considered to be exceptionally valuable.

Quick Breakdown: 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar

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1895-O Morgan Dollar and 1895-S Morgan Dollar

Both the 1895-O Morgan dollar and 1895-S Morgan dollar are important key dates with scarcity in higher grades. Their production totals were modest, and most coins were heavily used, leaving very few uncirculated survivors. 

Collectors especially pursue Mint State coins minted in New Orleans and San Francisco because certified examples with full detail are seldom encountered in coin collecting today.

Quick Breakdown: 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar and 1895-S Morgan Silver Dollar

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1895 Morgan Dollar

The 1895 Morgan dollar is a classic rarity of the Morgan series, affectionately dubbed “The King of Morgan Dollars.” No business strike in the Morgan circulation run is confirmed to exist, and only proof specimens from the Philadelphia Mint are available to collectors. 

These proofs display exceptional clarity, sharp detail on the eagle on the reverse, and deep reflectivity. Every certified example is viewed as a numismatic trophy in the U.S. market.

Quick Breakdown: 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar

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1893-CC Morgan Dollar

The 1893-CC Morgan dollar is among the rarest Carson City Morgan coins, with a low mintage and very few surviving specimens. Most coins were later melted, making uncirculated examples exceptionally scarce. 

Certified examples reveal sharp detail and strong mint luster, which are highly prized by coin collectors. Its historical significance and connection to the Carson City Mint make it a centerpiece in any Morgan silver dollar collection.

Quick Breakdown: 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar

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1885-CC Morgan Dollar

The 1885-CC Morgan dollar is a Carson City rarity. Only a small number of coins were minted in Carson City, and many were later melted, leaving few high-grade survivors. 

Mint State coins with full mint luster command premium prices. The coin’s scarcity, historical significance, and appeal to collectors make it one of the most desirable silver coins from the era.

Quick Breakdown: 1885-CC Morgan Silver Dollar

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1894 Morgan Dollar

 The 1894 Morgan dollar is legendary for its exceptionally low mintage and survival rate, making it highly sought after by serious coin enthusiasts. Only a handful of coins exist in Mint State, with many dates circulating heavily or later melted. 

Certified examples are treasured for their sharp detail, and they frequently appear in major coin displays and among collectors focused on the Morgan series.

Quick Breakdown: 1894 Morgan Silver Dollar

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1903-S Morgan Dollar

The 1903-S Morgan dollar is one of the final issues produced at the San Francisco Mint before production ceased in the early 1900s. Its relatively low mintage and scarcity in high grades make it a favorite among coin collectors. 

Uncirculated examples show vibrant mint luster, and certified examples demonstrate the refined detail characteristic of late Morgan series coins.

Quick Breakdown: 1903-S Morgan Silver Dollar

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1879-CC Morgan Dollar

The 1879-CC Morgan dollar is an early Carson City Morgan with notable rarity. The limited number of coins minted in Carson City during this period were often poorly struck, and many were later melted, leaving few Mint State examples. 

Certified examples display strong mint luster and sharp details on the eagle on the reverse.

Quick Breakdown: 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar

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Other Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars

Beyond the key dates, several other Morgan silver dollars hold value for collectors due to low mintages, unique coin varieties, or historical significance. 

These coins, spanning from the first issues in 1878 to the final year in 1921, remain widely collected and can be found in both circulated and uncirculated condition among coin enthusiasts.

• 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar
• 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar
• 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar
• 1882 Morgan Silver Dollar
• 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar

Morgan Silver Dollar History

The Morgan silver dollar was minted from 1878 to 1921, following the passage of the Coinage Act of 1873, which had temporarily halted silver dollar production. 

Designed by George T. Morgan, these coins were struck in Philadelphia, San Francisco, New Orleans, and Carson City. Over 270 million silver dollars were minted, and they became widely collected for their historical significance, artistry, and use in commerce. 

Production included both business strikes and proof issues, with later coins melted under the Pittman Act to stabilize silver prices.

Morgan Dollar Design

The Morgan dollar features a left-facing Liberty portrait on the obverse, with Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, symbolizing U.S. agricultural heritage. 

The reverse displays a heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch beneath a wreath, with “In God We Trust” above. 

Design refinements over the series included minor adjustments to eagle feathers, mint luster, and strike quality.

What Makes a Morgan Dollar Valuable?

Morgan dollars vary widely in value due to several factors that collectors and appraisers carefully evaluate. 

Understanding the elements that impact Morgan silver dollar worth, including rarity, condition, historical significance, and mint origin, helps determine which coins are highly prized.

Silver Content

Morgan dollars contain 90% silver and 10% copper, which equates to 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver per coin. This gives them intrinsic value beyond numismatic appeal.

Modern versions minted in 2021 and each following year contain 99.9% pure silver, with a slightly different weight of 0.859 troy ounces. 

The weight and purity of the silver contribute to the coin’s baseline worth, especially during periods of elevated silver prices. Collectors appreciate well-preserved examples that maintain full weight without significant corrosion or wear.

Mint Mark

The mintmark identifies where a coin was struck: Philadelphia (no mintmark), San Francisco (S), New Orleans (O), or Carson City (CC). Certain mints, particularly Carson City, produced fewer coins, making them scarce in higher grades. 

Mint location affects both rarity and desirability, with collectors often prioritizing coins from mints with limited production runs or distinctive historical contexts.

Key Dates

Specific years in the Morgan series are highly sought after due to limited production, low survival rates, or historical significance. Coins such as the 1892-S Morgan silver dollar, 1896-O Morgan silver dollar, and 1901 Morgan dollar are key dates that command premiums. 

High-grade examples of these issues are especially rare, and even lower-grade coins from these years are considered valuable collectibles.

Rarity and Low Survival Rates

Rarity is driven by low original mintages and losses over time, including coins melted under historical legislation. Many Morgan dollars circulated heavily, resulting in few high-grade survivors. Coins that remain in excellent condition are particularly coveted.

Coin Condition and Grade

A coin’s condition dramatically impacts its value. Mint State coins display crisp details, full mint luster, and minimal wear, while circulated coins show fading, scratches, and imperfections. 

Certified coin grading provides objective evaluation, allowing collectors to confidently assess quality and compare coins across the Morgan series and other numismatic holdings.

Market Demand

Collector interest influences market prices beyond intrinsic value. Well-preserved or historically significant Morgan dollars attract high demand, with rare dates and exceptional specimens often setting record prices. 

Trends, exhibitions, and numismatic publications can drive the popularity of certain coins, while interest can wane over time for others.

Minting Errors and Varieties

Errors and varieties, including repunched mintmarks or die anomalies, increase a coin’s rarity and appeal. Some varieties are subtle, requiring careful examination, while others are dramatic and well-known among specialists. 

Morgan Dollar Reissues

In 2021, the Morgan Dollar was revived by the United States Mint with modern issues struck in .999 fine silver to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the coin’s original mintage end in 1921. 

The initial releases included five versions distinguished by mintmarks or privy marks, each limited to approximately 174,000 pieces or fewer.

In 2023, the program expanded with additional finishes: Uncirculated (mintage ~275,000), Proof (~400,000), and Reverse Proof (~250,000) for the Morgan and companion Peace Dollar issues. 

These modern editions differ from the original 1878–1921 business strikes in composition, finish and presentation and are intended strictly for the collector market rather than general circulation. 

Tips for Collecting Morgan Silver Dollars

Collecting Morgan silver dollars can be rewarding for both beginners and seasoned coin enthusiasts. Understanding which Morgan dollars are valuable, grading, and proper storage helps preserve value and enjoyment over time.

Helpful Tips:

1. Start With Key Dates: Focus on historically significant or low-mintage coins before expanding to more common issues.
2. Learn Coin Grading: Study wear patterns, luster, and strike quality to identify Mint State examples.
3. Check for Varieties: Look for known die varieties, mint errors, or unique features that add value.
4. Use Certified Coins: Purchase coins with third-party certification to ensure authenticity and accurate grading.
5. Proper Storage: Store in inert holders, capsules, or coin albums to protect coins from environmental damage.
6. Stay Informed: Follow market trends, auction results, and numismatic publications to track demand and value.
7. Handle With Care: Avoid touching surfaces; hold coins by edges to preserve luster and detail.

How To Determine What Your Valuable Morgan Dollars and Other Rare Coins Are Worth

Determining the value of Morgan dollars and other rare coins requires getting a professional coin appraisal. An appraisal assesses market value based on rarity, condition, historical significance, and demand, whereas coin grading evaluates physical condition alone. 

Collectors should seek appraisals before selling, insuring, or trading coins and consider third-party grading for high-value or uncirculated examples to ensure credibility in the marketplace.

If you are interested in learning how to sell silver coins for the best price, an appraisal is the first step. 

How To Sell Morgan Silver Dollars

Knowing how to sell Morgan silver dollars requires careful planning to maximize value and ensure a smooth transaction. Approaching the process strategically helps you avoid mistakes and ensures you receive fair market prices for your coins.

Steps To Sell Morgan Silver Dollars:

1. Sort and Organize Your Collection: Separate coins by date, mintmark, and condition to understand what you own.
2. Have the Coins Appraised and/or Graded: When the value warrants it, professional appraisal or third-party grading establishes value and builds buyer confidence.
3. Gather All Documentation: Collect certificates, receipts, and previous appraisals to provide proof of authenticity and provenance.
4. Research Selling Options: Explore reputable online dealers, auctions, and local coin shops to compare offers.
5. Understand Market Conditions: Track demand, recent sales, and price trends to identify the best time to sell.
6. Prepare Coins for Sale: Package coins securely to protect them during shipping or presentation to potential buyers.
7. Evaluate Offers Carefully: Review bids from multiple sources to ensure you are receiving fair market value.

Where To Sell Morgan Silver Dollars

The decision of where to sell Morgan dollars is not one to take lightly. Yes, there are several options, but each has risks that you should be aware of. 

• Local coin shops offer convenience but may undervalue rare pieces.
• Online marketplaces provide broad reach, but scams and counterfeit listings are common.
• Auction houses can yield high prices, but they charge significant fees and may have slow payouts.
• Selling directly to collectors requires trust and verification.

For safety, fair offers, and a seamless experience when selling Morgan silver dollars, working with a reputable buyer like Coinfully ensures maximum value with minimal risk. 

With Coinfully, you get a fast, free appraisal, receive your offer, and can choose whether or not to sell your coins online to us, all with zero pressure.

Coinfully Makes Selling Gold and Silver Simple and Lucrative

Whether you have just a single valuable Morgan, a modest collection of Morgan silver dollars and Peace silver dollars, or a vast inherited coin collection, Coinfully makes selling gold and silver coins and bullion easy. 

With Coinfully, every step is designed to maximize value while minimizing stress. Our team of experienced numismatists provides secure authentication and professional appraisals, ensuring you receive a fair, market-driven offer.

Our free online coin appraisal couldn’t be easier: submit photos or an inventory list of your coins, receive your free appraisal and competitive offer, and decide if you want to keep or sell your coins.

For qualifying collections, you can choose our at-home appraisal service if you prefer. One of our numismatic experts will come to your home to appraise your coins in person and present an offer. If you decide to sell, payment can be made immediately. 

Thinking about selling your coin collection? Contact Coinfully today to learn the true value of your coins and receive a top-of-market offer. 

Learn More About Rare and Valuable Coins

• 10 Most Valuable Morgan Dollars
• 10 Most Valuable Bust Dollars
• The Top Silver Dollars Worth Money
• Types of Dollar Coins Worth the Most Money
• The Complete Guide to Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar
• 10 Valuable Cent Coins: Lincoln and Indian Head Pennies
• Rare and Valuable U.S. Dollar Coins
• Rare and Valuable U.S. Half Dollars