Silver Morgan Dollar Coins

The Birth of Morgan Silver Dollars

The discovery of the Comstock Lode, one of the largest silver strikes in history, occurred in Nevada on the eastern slopes of Mount Davidson. This flood of silver into the market caused a sharp drop in silver prices. To mitigate the potential economic impact, Congress passed the Bland-Allison Act. This act required the Treasury Department to purchase between two to four million dollars worth of silver each month for coinage. This led to the creation of the Morgan Silver Dollars. Far more coins were minted than were needed for circulation, resulting in large quantities being stored in Treasury vaults. These excess coins remained untouched until they were released to the public after the 1960s.

The Popularity of Morgan Dollars

Morgan Silver Dollars are among the most collectible official US currencies. Each coin is composed of 90% silver with a face value of $1. Collectors are drawn to the Morgan Dollar for its high-quality strike, collectible value, and captivating design. These coins were minted from 1878 to 1904 and then again in 1921, making them a favorite among numismatists of all experience levels. Despite being one of the most common US coins from the 19th and 20th centuries, some date and mint mark combinations, as well as varieties known as "VAMs," are incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors.

Before the Silver Peace Dollar came into production in 1921, Morgan Dollars already held a significant place in US coinage history. Until 1962, Morgan Dollars were considered less common, but the discovery of a large cache in a Philadelphia Mint vault changed that perception. The discovery led to a surge in exchanges for silver certificates, which continued until 1964. 

A Unique Design by George T. Morgan

The design of the Morgan Dollar was created by George T. Morgan in 1878, with both the obverse and reverse sides featuring intricate detail. The obverse depicts a portrait of Lady Liberty, modeled after Philadelphia school teacher Anna Williams, giving her a uniquely American appearance that departed from the typical neoclassical style. Surrounding her image are 13 stars, the date of issue, and the inscription "E Pluribus Unum."

The reverse side showcases a distinctive version of the heraldic eagle, inspired by Morgan's observations of live eagles. He removed the traditional breastplate and added an olive branch to the eagle’s claws, while partially surrounding the majestic bird with a wreath of laurel. The coin’s reverse also includes the inscriptions "One Dollar," "United States of America," and "In God We Trust" above the eagle’s head.

In 2021, US Mint revived the classic Morgan Dollar series to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the transition from the Morgan to the Peace Dollar. The modern series features imagery identical to the original, with an increase in purity to .999 fine silver.  

Where Morgan Dollars Were Minted

Morgan Dollars were minted at five different locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S), Carson City (CC), and Denver (D). The mint mark appears on the reverse of the coin, below the laurel wreath.

Rarities Within the Series

Some of the rarest and most coveted dates for Morgan Dollars include 1895, 1893-S, 1895-O, 1892-S, 1889-CC, 1884-S, and 1879-CC.

A Range of Buying Options

We cater to both collectors and investors by offering a wide selection of Morgan Dollars. Our inventory includes certified coins for collectors, as well as bags and rolls of various denominations for investors. With a wide array of options to suit different budgets, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs.

An Opportunity to Own History

Collecting Morgan Silver Dollar Coins is both exciting and rewarding. These coins are among the rarest silver dollars and can be a valuable investment. When considering adding Morgan Silver Dollars to your collection, it’s important to think about how long you plan to keep them, as those in the best condition are the most valuable. Many of these coins carry intriguing stories from their time in circulation. Their high face value suggests they may have been used by gunslingers, railroad tycoons, or poker players. At Bullion Exchanges, we offer you the chance to own a remarkable piece of history with our extensive collection of Morgan Dollars.

Why Invest in Morgan Dollars?

Morgan Dollars are now one of the most sought-after pre-1965, 90% silver coins. There are several benefits to owning these coins, as their demand often exceeds the supply. Additionally, pre-1965 silver coins are known for their relatively small premium over the spot price, making them an attractive option for investors looking for non-bullion silver.

With their historical importance, rarity, and condition, Morgan Dollars have become a favorite among collectors. For those seeking to buy in bulk without exceeding a budget, these coins are an excellent choice. If you have any questions or need assistance in finding the perfect Morgan Dollar for your collection, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help.