If you have an 1880 silver dollar, then you might be wondering how much it’s worth. The answer depends on a few factors, including the variety of the coin and the mint location. Generally speaking, circulated coins are worth anywhere from $30 to $300, while uncirculated coins can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
The year 1880 was a momentous one. It saw the founding of the University of South Dakota, the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge, and the election of Grover Cleveland as the President of the United States. It was also a year of great change for the American West. In 1880, the population of the West reached 5 million, almost double what it had been just a decade earlier. This influx of people caused more silver dollars to be produced.
Do you have any old silver coins lying around your house? If you do, it’s time to find out how much they’re worth! In this blog post, we will take a closer look at 1880 silver dollars and what their current value is. Stay tuned for more information!
History of Morgan Silver Dollars
The Morgan silver dollar was first minted in 1878, in an effort to boost the American economy. The coinage act of 1873 led to the standardization of silver dollar coins, and the Morgan silver dollar was the first such coin to be minted since then. The silver dollars were originally minted with the intention of inspiring American citizens to spend more, and they quickly became popular. However, production of the coins ceased in 1904, due to a decline in the demand for silver.
Morgan dollars get their name from their designer, George T. Morgan. Morgan was an Englishman who became the seventh Chief Engraver of the United States Mint in 1876. He is well-known for designing many popular coins, including the Morgan silver dollar.
In 1921, production of the Morgan silver dollar resumed, but it was eventually discontinued again in 1935. The coins remain popular amongst collectors, and in 2021 they were minted again as a commemorative. Whether or not the coins will have the same effect on the economy remains to be seen. Nevertheless, the history of the Morgan silver dollar is a fascinating one.
1880 Morgan Silver Dollar Identification Guide
The 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar is a highly collectible coin. Key characteristics to look for when identifying this coin include its composition (90% silver, 10% copper), silver weight (.77344 oz.), total weight (26.73 grams), and diameter (1.5 inches/38.1 mm). The coin’s thickness is also notable, at just under 1/10 of an inch (2.4 mm). While the date on the coin is usually the best indicator of its authenticity, these physical characteristics can also be helpful in determining whether a coin is genuine.
The obverse features Lady Liberty facing left with E PLURIBUS UNUM above her head and the date below. The reverse features an eagle with spread wings, arrows, and olive branches, as well as the words THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ONE DOLLAR, and IN GOD WE TRUST inscribed on the back of the coin.
The mint mark will tell you where the coin was minted, and you can use this information to help narrow down your search. Underneath the wreath on the reverse, you’ll find the coin’s mint mark.
The 1880 Morgan silver dollar was minted in several different variations, each with its own unique features. Differentiating between the various 1880 Morgan silver dollar variations can be tricky, especially for beginners. However, with a little patience and attention to detail, it is possible to identify the different types of rare coins. One common variation is the “8 over high 7” coin, where the number 8 is minted over a higher 7. Another variation is the “8 over low 7” coin, where the 8 is minted over a lower 7 and the 7 is easier to see.
The reverse side of the coin also featured different pattern variations, due to the fact that technology wasn’t as advanced back then. There is the second reverse version, which has a concave breast and a parallel top arrow feather. Next is the version with the third reverse, which has a convex breast and a top arrow feather that is angled. As a result, each 1880 Morgan silver dollar is a truly unique piece of history.
How Rare is an 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar?
When it comes to Morgan silver dollars, the year 1880 is considered to be quite rare. These coins were produced in four different locations – Philadelphia, Carson City, San Francisco, and New Orleans – and each location had a different mintmark.
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1880 Morgan Silver Dollar |
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| Location | Year | Minted |
| Philadelphia | 1880 | 12,600,000 |
| San Francisco | 1880 S | 8,900,000 |
| New Orleans | 1880 O | 5,305,000 |
| Carson City | 1880 CC | 495,000 |
While 12.6 million coins were minted in Philadelphia, only 8.9 million were produced in San Francisco, 5.3 million in New Orleans, and a mere 495,000 in Carson City. Of the Carson City coins, many were melted down soon after production and few have survived to the present day. As a result, the 1880 Morgan silver dollar from Carson City is particularly rare and valuable.1880 Silver Dollar ValueThe value of an 1880 silver dollar depends on a few different factors. First, it is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $14.51 currently. However, the value will also differ depending on the place of production. Let’s take a closer look.
1880 Morgan Silver Dollar No Mint Mark Value
1880 P Morgan Silver Dollar
This coin is unique in that it doesn’t have a mint mark, which means it was produced at the Philadelphia mint.
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1880 P Morgan Silver Dollar |
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| Quality | Value |
| Fine condition | $40 |
| Extremely fine condition | $42 |
| Uncirculated MS 65 | $525 |
| “80 over 79” very fine condition | $60 |
| “80 over 79” extremely fine condition | $100 |
| “80 over 79” Uncirculated MS 60 | $300 |
While most 1880 Morgan Silver Dollars are worth around $40 in very fine condition, an extremely fine one can be worth $42.However, if the coin is uncirculated, it can be worth significantly more – up to $525 in MS 65 grade.
The 80 over 79 no mint mark variation is relatively scarce, and it can be worth around $60 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition, the value jumps to around $100.However, if you have an uncirculated coin with an MS 60 grade, then you could be looking at a value of around $300!
There are a handful of proof coins with no mint mark that is valued at around $3750 in PR 63 condition. Given the relatively low mintage of 1,355 proof coins, these pieces are sure to remain coveted among collectors for years to come.
1880 S Morgan Silver Dollar Value
1880 S Morgan Silver Dollar
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1880 S Morgan Silver Dollar Value |
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| Quality | Value |
| Average condition | $30 |
| MS 65 | $220 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Very fine condition | $40 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Xtremely good condition. | $80 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Uncirculated MS 60 | $250 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Uncirculated MS 65 | $500 |
| “0 over 9 type” Very fine condition | $45 |
| “0 over 9 type” xtremely good condition | $85 |
| “0 over 9 type” Uncirculated MS 60 | $150 |
| “0 over 9 type” Uncirculated MS 65 | $300 |
While coins in average condition are typically worth less than $30, those that have been graded as being in Mint State 65 condition can fetch over $220 at auction.
In very fine condition, the 1880 S silver dollar 80 over 79 variety is worth about $40. The item is worth roughly $80 in extremely good condition.In uncirculated condition the price is around $250 for coins with an MS 60 mint state grade.MS 65 uncirculated coins can be purchased for about $500.
An 1880 S silver dollar with the 0 over 9 type is worth around $45 in very good condition. In extremely good condition, the coin is worth about $85.When purchased uncirculated, coins with an MS 60 grade cost about $150. Uncirculated MS 65 coins can be purchased for around $600.
1880 O Morgan Silver Dollar Value
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1880 O Morgan Silver Dollar Value |
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| Quality | Value |
| Circulated | $30 – $39 |
| Uncirculated MS 65 | $11,500 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Very fine condition | $50 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Xtremely good condition. | $70 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Uncirculated MS 60 | $275 |
| “80 over 79 variety” Uncirculated MS 65 | $16,000 |
The “O” indicates that the coin was minted in New Orleans. Circulated examples of the 1880 O Morgan silver dollar are usually worth between $30 and $39, depending on the condition. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for more than $11,500.
The 80 over 79 variation is the most valuable and can be found in very fine condition for around $50. In extremely fine condition, the value of the coin increases to around $70. However, the real value of the coin lies in its uncirculated condition. An MS 60 uncirculated coin goes for $275, while an MS 65 coin can sell for around $16,000.
1880 CC Morgan Silver Dollar Value
The 1880 CC Morgan Silver Dollar is a highly sought-after coin among collectors. Carson City coins are particularly popular, due to the mint’s small production numbers.
The 1880 CC Morgan Silver Dollar 80/79 variation is worth around $275 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition, the value increases to around $300. However, the real value of the coin lies in its uncirculated condition. Uncirculated 1880 CC 80/79 Morgan Silver Dollars with a grade of MS 60 sell for around $600. Those with a grade of MS 65 can go for as high as $2,000.
The 8 over 7 variation with the second reverse is slightly less valuable but still sells for a pretty penny. In very fine condition, it is worth around $250. In extremely good condition, the value increases to around $285. However, once again, the real value lies in its uncirculated condition. An uncirculated 8 over 7 Morgan Silver Dollar with a grade of MS 60 can sell for around $575. Those with a grade of MS 65 can go for as high as $2,000.
In very fine condition, the 1880 CC silver dollar with the third reverse is worth about $225. The item is worth roughly $260 in exceptionally good condition. Coins with an MS 60 grade cost about $575 in uncirculated condition. MS 65 uncirculated coins can be purchased for about $1,000.
The 1880 CC silver dollar 8 over high 7 variety with the third reverse is worth about $250 in very fine condition. The item is in exceptionally good condition and is worth about $275. Uncirculated coins with an MS 60 grade sell for around $575. Coins in MS 65 uncirculated condition cost about $1,550.
The 1880 CC silver dollar 8 over low 7 variants with the third reverse is valued at around $250 and is in very good condition. The piece in exceptionally good condition is worth about $275. Uncirculated coins with an MS 60 grade sell for around $575 and those in MS 65 uncirculated condition cost about $1,550.
What is the Most Expensive 1880 Silver Dollar Ever Sold?
The most expensive 1880 silver dollar ever sold is a nearly perfect proof coin that was graded PR69 by NGC. This coin is snow white and is considered to be one of the finest proof 1880 dollars that have been certified. It sold for $55,200 in 2001 to a lucky collector. This coin is a great example of the high quality that was achieved during the early years of minting Proof coins at the Philadelphia Mint.
In 2018, a Razor-Sharp Brilliant Proof 1880 dollar graded PR68 sold for $40,800, making it the second most expensive 1880 silver dollar ever sold. This particular coin is significant because of its exceptional condition. Of the more than three million 1880 silver dollars minted, only a few thousand were proofs, and even fewer have survived in such pristine condition.
How Do I Know if My Silver Dollar Is Worth Money?
If you’re in the possession of an 1880 silver dollar, there are a few ways you can tell how much it could be worth.
Check the Mint Mark
When it comes to silver dollars, the mint mark can be a very important indicator of value. Some mint marks are much rarer and therefore more valuable than others. For example, the CC mint mark is very valuable, as it indicates that the coin was minted at the Carson City Mint.
On the other hand, a coin with no mint mark is usually the least valuable, unless it is a proof coin. Proof coins are struck with specially prepared dies and are not intended for general circulation. Therefore, they are quite rare and can be worth a significant amount of money.
Assess the Condition
One of the most important factors in determining the value of a coin is its condition. A well-preserved coin will be worth more than one that is heavily worn or damaged. Therefore, it is important to take a close look at your coin to assess its condition. If it has any scratches, nicks, or other blemishes, this will likely reduce its value. Likewise, if the coin is missing any of its original minting details, such as the date or mint mark, this will also lower its value.
If you think your silver dollar might be valuable, the best thing to do is to get it graded by a professional coin dealer or grading service. While there are many “at home” ways to determine the value of a coin, such as using a magnet or looking for certain markings, these methods are not always accurate. A professional grade will give you a much better idea of what your coin is worth.
There are several grades that coins can be given, and each one corresponds to a different coin value. For example:
- MS 60 – Uncirculated coin with obvious flaws, usually an excessive amount of bag marks, a bad strike, or low shine.
- MS 64 – An uncirculated coin with a few light flaws or distracting markings. The aesthetic appeal of these coins ranges from mediocre to above average.
- MS 66 – Superior surface condition, immaculate shine, and no more than three or four light or obvious contact blemishes.
- MS 68 – Only four light scattered contact marks, gorgeous fine strike, and full original shine for the date and mint.
Silver Melt Values
If you have a silver dollar and are wondering if it is worth money, the first thing you need to do is check the silver melt values. This is the value of the silver in the coin and can fluctuate based on the current market conditions. For example, as of writing this, the silver melt value for a silver dollar is $14.51. This means that if you were to sell the silver in your coin, you would get $14.51 for it.
Compare to Recently Sold Pieces
The easiest way to find out is to compare it to similar pieces that have been recently sold. Start by looking for coins that have been graded by a professional numismatist. These coins will have a certification label that indicates their condition. Once you’ve found a few comparable coins, check to see how much they sold for at auction. This will give you a good idea of what your silver dollar is worth. For example:
- A circulated 1880 O Morgan Silver Dollar sold for $35.
- A circulated no mint mark 1880 silver dollar sold for $30.
- A Carson City Morgan 1880 Dollar sold for $259 in an unknown condition.
- A Carson City 80/78 variety graded XF40 (Extremely Fine) by the PCGS sold for $462.
5 Most Valuable 1880 Silver Dollar Ever Sold
| 5 Most Valuable 1880 Silver Dollar | ||||
| No. | Type | Condition | Sold Date | Price |
| 1 | 1880-S $1 | MS69 | Jan 21, 2021 | $162,000.00 |
| 2 | 1880-S $1 | MS69 | Jan 5, 2017 | $99,875.00 |
| 3 | 1880-S $1 | MS69 | Oct 14, 2011 | $86,250.00 |
| 4 | 1880-CC $1 8 Over High 7 | MS67+ | Sep 5, 2019 | $84,000.00 |
| 5 | 1880-S $1 | MS69 | Jan 5, 2006 | $80,500.00 |
1. 1880-S $1 MS69 Sold on Jan 21, 2021 for: $162,000.00
2. 1880-S $1 MS69 Sold on Jan 5, 2017 for: $99,875.00
3. 1880-S $1 MS69 Sold on Oct 14, 2011 for: $86,250.00
4. 1880-CC $1 8 Over High 7, VAM-5, MS67+ Sold on Sep 5, 2019 for: $84,000.00
5. 1880-S $1 MS69 Sold on Jan 5, 2006 for: $80,500.00
Final Thoughts
If you have an 1880 silver dollar, then you might be wondering how much it’s worth. Many factors can affect the coin value, and the 1880 silver dollar is no exception. The variety of coin, mint location, the current market value of silver, and condition all play a role in determining worth. Generally speaking, circulated coins are worth between $30 and $300, while uncirculated coins can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
So, if you have an 1880 silver dollar in your possession, it’s definitely worth taking the time to have it appraised by a professional. Who knows, you might just have a hidden gem on your hands! Thanks for reading.
FAQ
Where is the mint mark on a silver dollar 1880?
If you’re looking for the mint mark on a silver dollar from 1880, you’ll need to look on the reverse side of the coin, under the wreath. If the coin is from Philadelphia, it won’t have a mint mark. Coins from other mints will have a mint mark (usually a letter) indicating where they were struck. For example, coins from the New Orleans Mint will have an “O” mint mark.
What does the S stand for on a Morgan silver dollar?
The S on a Morgan dollar indicates that the coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint. The San Francisco Mint was established in 1854 and was originally housed in a building known as the United States Branch Mint. The Morgan dollar was first produced in 1878 and was minted at several different mints, including San Francisco. Each mint used a different letter to indicate where the coin was made.
What year is the rarest Morgan silver dollar?
The 1895 Morgan dollar is considered the “King of the Morgan Dollars” because it is the rarest and one of the most valuable coins. Only a handful of these coins are known to exist, and they are highly prized by collectors. The vast majority of 1895 Morgan silver dollars were destroyed during the melting of silver bullion in the early 20th century. As a result, these coins are extremely rare and valuable.
What does CC on a silver dollar mean?
CC on a silver dollar means it was minted in Carson City. The Carson City Mint was the primary mint facility for the United States Mint in the Comstock Lode, which was the first major silver discovery in the United States. The Carson City Mint operated from 1870 to 1893, and during that time it produced some of the most beautiful and iconic coins in American history.
How many Morgan Dollars are left?
It is estimated that there are approximately 275 million Morgan dollars still in existence. This is an incredible amount, especially when you consider that the coins were only minted for a brief period of time. The vast majority of Morgan dollars were produced at the Philadelphia mint, with smaller numbers coming from the New Orleans, San Francisco, and Carson City mints. Today, the coins are highly prized by collectors and are worth far more than their original face value.
