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How Much is a 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Worth?

How Much is a 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Worth

The value of an 1881 Morgan silver dollar depends on its condition and mint mark. Circulated coins are generally worth between $42 and $450, while uncirculated coins can be worth thousands of dollars. In general, the better the condition of the coin, the higher its value will be. Coins with rarer mint marks like “CC” may also be worth more than those with more common mint marks.

1881 was an eventful year in the United States. In February, President James A. Garfield was assassinated by Charles Guiteau, a disgruntled office seeker. This triggered a succession crisis, as Vice President Chester A. Arthur had little experience and was not well-liked by either party. In July, the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place in Tombstone, Arizona. And in September, Labor Day was first celebrated as a national holiday.

Perhaps you’ve stumbled across an old silver dollar while rummaging through a box of your grandparents’ belongings. Or maybe you inherited a small collection of coins from a family member. If you’re lucky enough to have a Morgan silver dollar (minted between 1878 and 1904, and again in 1921), then you might be wondering how much it’s worth.

What are Morgan Silver Dollars?

Morgan Silver Dollars are a type of coin minted by the United States from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921. The coin is named after its designer, George T. Morgan. The obverse of the coin features a profile of Liberty, while the reverse features an image of an eagle.

George T. Morgan was an English-born American engraver and designer of United States coins. He is most famous for his design of the Morgan silver dollar, which is considered one of the most beautiful ever to grace an American coin. In addition to the Morgan silver dollar, Morgan also designed the $20 gold “double eagle” coin, which was minted from 1907 to 1933.

Unlike other coins minted by the US at the time, Morgan Silver Dollars were made using a higher percentage of silver, making them more valuable than their face value. Today, Morgan Dollars are prized by collectors for their beauty and historic value. While most are no longer in circulation, they can still be found in second-hand shops and online auction sites.

1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Identification Guide

1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Identification Guide

Given its significant silver content and historic value, the 1881 Morgan silver dollar is highly sought-after by collectors. As a result, it is important to be able to identify these coins correctly in order to avoid counterfeit copies. Fortunately, there are a few key features that can help collectors to identify genuine 1881 Morgan silver dollars.

First, take a look at the coin’s composition. The 1881 Morgan dollar is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a silver weight of .77344 oz. and a total weight of 26.73 grams. It has diameter of 38.1 mm.

The obverse of the coin features Lady Liberty, with the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM” at the top and the date at the bottom. Surrounded by stars, Lady Liberty is a reminder of the ideals that the United States was founded on. The reverse of the coin features an eagle with spread wings, surrounded by the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, “ONE DOLLAR”, and “IN GOD WE TRUST”. The eagle is a symbol of strength and freedom, and is a fitting design for a coin that represents the United States.

When it comes to identifying a Morgan silver dollar, another thing you’ll want to look for is the mint mark. The mint mark on a coin is an important tool for collectors in determining its value and origins. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin below the wreath. If there is no mint mark, that means the coin was minted in Philadelphia. If there is a “CC” mint mark, that means the coin was minted in Carson City. An “O” mint mark indicates that the coin was minted in New Orleans. And finally, an “S” mint mark means that the coin was minted in San Francisco.

1881 Morgan Silver Dollar

Location Year Minted
Philadelphia 1881 9,163,000
Philadelphia 1881 proof 984
San Francisco 1881 S 12,760,000
New Orleans 1881 O 5,708,000
Carson City 1881 CC 296,000
Total 1881 27,927,984

Is an 1881 Silver Dollar Rare?

A 1881 silver dollar is considered rare. There are a few reasons for this. First, it’s old. That alone puts it in the rare category for most things. But beyond that, many 1881 silver dollars were melted down over the years. And of the ones that remain, many are worn down from circulation, making them even more rare.

Silver dollars were produced at all four US Mints in 1881. Surprisingly, the San Francisco Mint produced the most coins that year, with a total of 12,760,000. Philadelphia, which is usually the largest producer of US coins, came in second that year, with 9,163,000 coins. New Orleans came in third, with 5,708,000 coins, and Carson City produced the least amount of silver dollars that year, with 296,000 coins.

While all four mints produced silver dollars in 1881, the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints produce the vast majority of US coinage. As a result, 1881 silver dollars from those two mints are considered to be more common than those from New Orleans and Carson City.

All of these factors mean that a 1881 silver dollar is a valuable piece of currency. So if you have one, you can consider yourself lucky. And if you don’t, well, now you know what to look for next time you’re at a flea market or coin show!

How Much is a 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Worth

Year Grade/Condition
Fine condition Uncirculated MS 60 Uncirculated MS 65 Proof PR 63
1881 $42 $60 $500
1881 Proof $3,750
1881 S $42  $60 $220
1881 O $45 $65 $1050
1881 CC $400 – $500 $550 $1075

If you have a Morgan silver dollar, you might be wondering how much it is worth. The answer depends on a few factors, such as the mint mark and the condition of the coin. However, all 1881 Morgan silver dollars are worth at least their weight in silver. The current silver bullion value for this coin is $15.66.

So, if you have a Morgan silver dollar that weighs 26.73 grams, it is worth at least $15.66. Of course, if your coin is in good condition, it could be worth much more than its melt value. Let’s take a closer look.

1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Value

1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Value

1881 Morgan Silver Dollar

Quality Value
Fine condition $42
Uncirculated MS 60 $60
Uncirculated MS 65 $500
Proof PR 63 $3,750

The 1881 Morgan Dollar that was minted in Philadelphia and does not have a mint mark. Circulated coins are typically worth around $42 in very fine condition, but the value increases to around $60 for coins in uncirculated condition with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for significantly more, around $500.

Philadelphia also produced a number of proof coins, 984 to be exact. Proof coins are considered to be even more valuable than regular coins, and the Morgan Silver Dollar is no exception. In PR 63 condition, it is valued at around $3,750.

1881 S Morgan Silver Dollar Value

1881 S Morgan Silver Dollar

1881 S Morgan Silver Dollar

Quality Value
Fine condition $42
Uncirculated MS 60 $60
Uncirculated MS 65 $220

1881 S Morgan Silver Dollar coins were produced in San Francisco, which was responsible for the majority of Morgan silver dollars minted this year. The circulating price for an 1881 S Morgan silver dollar is the same as for a Philadelphia coin – $42 in very fine condition. However, Uncirculated coins can be worth more than this, depending on their grade. A coin with an MS 60 grade can sell for around $60, while a coin with an MS 65 grade can be worth around $220.

1881 O Morgan Silver Dollar Value

1881 O Morgan Silver Dollar

1881 O Morgan Silver Dollar

Quality Value
Fine condition $45
Uncirculated MS 60 $65
Uncirculated MS 65 $1050

The “O” on the coin indicates that it was minted in New Orleans, which makes it slightly more valuable than coins minted in Philadelphia or San Francisco. In circulated condition, the coin is typically worth around $45. However, in uncirculated condition, the coin can be worth significantly more. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 60 can sell for around $65, while coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $1,050.

1881 CC Morgan Silver Dollar Value

1881 CC Morgan Silver Dollar

1881 CC Morgan Silver Dollar

1881 O Morgan Silver Dollar

Quality Value
Fine condition $400 – $500
Uncirculated MS 60 $550
Uncirculated MS 65 $1075

The 1881 CC Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most valuable coins minted in Carson City. In circulated condition, these coins are worth between $400 and $450. However, in uncirculated condition, the price of an 1881 CC Morgan Silver Dollar can jump to around $550 for a coin with an MS 60 grade. For a coin with a grade of MS 65, the price can jump even higher to around $1,075.

The value of these coins is largely due to the fact that Carson City Mints produced relatively few coins compared to other mints. As a result, collectors are willing to pay a premium for these rare coins.

What is the Most Expensive 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Ever Sold?

The most expensive 1881 Morgan silver dollar ever sold is the Carson City silver dollar graded MS 68 by PCGS. This coin is one of just three pieces certified in this grade by PCGS. The coin was sold for $48,875 in 2007. This particular coin is nearly pristine, with almost no signs of wear and only a handful of tiny marks and grazes visible to the trained eye. For anyone lucky enough to own this coin, it represents a truly remarkable piece of American history.

The second most expensive 1881 Morgan silver dollar was graded MS 68 and sold for $40,250 the same year. The coin was fully struck and seemingly pristine. Although it doesn’t have the same rarity as the Carson City coins, the San Francisco dollar is still highly coveted by collectors due to its stunning condition.

How Much Can I Sell My Morgan Silver Dollars For?

Recently sold Morgan silver dollars can provide a good starting point for assessing the value of your own coins. By comparing your coins to similar ones that have recently sold, you can get a better idea of how much they might be worth. For example:

By doing this, you’ll get a good idea of what your coin is worth and how much you can expect to sell it for.

What Factors Determine the Price of a Morgan Silver Dollar?

The price of a Morgan Silver Dollar can vary depending on a number of factors, but one of the most important is the mint mark. Coins minted in Carson City (CC) are generally worth more than those minted in Philadelphia, San Francisco, and New Orleans. This is because there were fewer CC coins minted, making them more rare and therefore more valuable.

In addition, a coin in good condition will typically be worth more than one that is heavily worn, while a coin that has been professionally graded by a credible organization will also command a higher price. In general, the most desirable coins are those that have been well-preserved and exhibit minimal signs of wear.

The price of a Morgan silver dollar also depends on the current spot price of silver. The silver melt value is the amount of pure silver that is in the coin. The current spot price of silver is the price per ounce of silver on the open market. The higher the silver melt value and the higher the current spot price of silver, the higher the price of the Morgan silver dollar.

Ultimately, the price of any coin is determined by the laws of supply and demand. If there is high demand for a particular coin and only a limited supply, then the price will be driven up. Conversely, if there is little demand for a coin, even one that is rare, it will not be worth as much.

5 Most Valuable 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Ever Sold

5 Most Valuable 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar
No. Type Condition Sold Date Price
1 1881 $1 PR67 Aug 16, 2018 $105,000.00
2 1881-CC $1 MS67 Aug 1, 2008 $63,250.00
3 1881-S $1 MS69 Jan 9, 2009 $48,875.00
4 1881-CC $1 MS68 Apr 9, 2007 $48,875.00
5 1881 $1 PR67 Aug 12, 2011 $46,000.00

1. 1881 $1 PR67 Sold on Aug 16, 2018 for: $105,000.00

1881 $1 PR67 Sold on Aug 16, 2018 for $105,000.00

2. 1881-CC $1 MS67 Sold on Aug 1, 2008 for: $63,250.00

1881-CC $1 MS67 Sold on Aug 1, 2008 for $63,250.00

3. 1881-S $1 MS69 Sold on Jan 9, 2009 for: $48,875.00

1881-S $1 MS69 Sold on Jan 9, 2009 for $48,875.00

4. 1881-CC $1 MS68 Sold on Apr 9, 2007 for: $48,875.00

1881-CC $1 MS68 Sold on Apr 9, 2007 for $48,875.00

5. 1881 $1 PR67 Sold on Aug 12, 2011 for: $46,000.00

1881 $1 PR67 Sold on Aug 12, 2011 for $46,000.00

FAQ

Where is the mintmark on a 1881 silver dollar?

Silver dollars minted in 1881 typically have a mint mark on the reverse side, under the eagle. The mint mark indicates where the coin was minted, and helps collectors to determine its value. Coins minted at the Philadelphia Mint do not have a mintmark, while those minted at the Carson City Mint have a CC mintmark. Silver dollars minted at the New Orleans Mint have an O mintmark, and those from the San Francisco Mint have an S mintmark.

Because silver dollars from different mints can vary in value, the presence of a mintmark can be an important factor in determining a coin’s worth.

How can I tell if my 1881 silver dollar is real?

When it comes to silver dollars, there are a few things you can look for to determine if yours is real. First, check the weight. A genuine 1881 silver dollar should weigh in at 26.73 grams. Next, measure the diameter. It should be 38.1 mm across. Finally, take a close look at the lettering and images on the coin. They should be clear and well defined. If you’re still not sure, take your coin to a professional for authentication.

How do you tell if a Morgan silver dollar is CC?

If you’re trying to determine whether a Morgan silver dollar is CC, the first thing you’ll want to do is check for a mint mark. Coins that were minted at the Carson City Mint will have a “CC” mint mark on the reverse. If there is no mint mark, that means the coin was minted at the Philadelphia Mint and is not a CC silver dollar.

Are Morgan silver dollars going up in value?

For years, Morgan silver dollars have been a popular choice among collectors and investors. The classic design and rich history of these coins make them a sought-after commodity, and their value has steadily risen in recent years. While it is impossible to predict the future value of any coin, the demand for Morgan silver dollars shows no signs of slowing down. As a result, it is safe to say that these coins will continue to increase in value in the years to come.

What coins are collectors looking for?

Coin collectors are always on the lookout for certain types of coins. For example, many collectors try to find coins that were minted in a particular year or that have a certain mint mark. Others look for coins with errors, such as misprints or double-struck coins. Still others focus on collecting one type of coin, such as buffalo nickels or silver dollars.

Final Thoughts

So, how much are 1881 Morgan silver dollars worth? The answer, as with most things in life, depends on a number of factors. The condition of the coin is perhaps the most important factor, with circulated coins typically selling for $42 to $450 and uncirculated coins selling for $60 to thousands of dollars. The mint mark is also important, with some mint marks being far more valuable than others.

In general, though, a 1881 Morgan silver dollar is worth between $42 and thousands of dollars. Of course, the final price will also depend on factors such as the seller’s reputation and the buyer’s bargaining skills. But regardless of these factors, a 1881 Morgan silver dollar is sure to be a valuable addition to any collection.

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