1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Value
Over 9 million 1881 Morgan Silver Dollars were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. This many haven’t survived due to many being melted down in later years. The Philadelphia Mint has the highest mintage of the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar compared to the other mints. The Morgan Silver dollar is composed of ¾ of an ounce of pure silver. Continue reading to learn more about 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Value.
AUCTION RECORD: $28,200 • MS67
Image source: PCGS
History of the 1881 Morgan Dollar
Like many of the silver dollars minted, the 1881 Morgan Dollar had many bags released in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1955, it is reported that a dealer offered rolls of 20 1881 Morgan Silver Dollars for $25, which is the equivalent of $1.25 per coin.
This coin is fairly easy to find on the market, and the quality of the strike of each circulated coin varies wildly. It can be a lot harder for the collector to find an 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar that is well-struck, lustrous, and attractive.
1881 Morgan Silver Dollar Value
Circulated pieces of the 1881 Morgan Dollar don’t bring in as much, with Morgan silver dollar prices on the lower side, or just above or right at the value of the silver. For Mint State, the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar value is a bit higher, reaching into the tens of thousands, and might require some cherrypicking for quality of the surface and the strike to ensure you are finding exactly what you want in your collection.
Type of coin: Silver Dollar
Year: 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar
Morgan Silver Dollar Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 9,163,000
Metal content: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Face value: One dollar
Weight: 26.73 grams
Edge: Reeded
Designer: George T. Morgan
Diameter: 38.10 millimeters
FAQ
What factors influence the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar value?
The Morgan Silver Dollar value, especially for the 1881 edition, is determined by its mint mark, condition (or grade), rarity, and silver content. Special varieties and recognized errors can also significantly impact its value.
How much is a typical 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar worth?
A typical 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar in circulated condition might be worth around $30 to $50. Uncirculated examples, depending on their grade, can fetch from $60 to several hundred dollars.
What is the value of an 1881-S Morgan Silver Dollar?
The 1881-S Morgan Silver Dollar, minted in San Francisco, is known for its striking quality and luster. Its value can range from about $50 in lower uncirculated grades to over $200 for MS65 examples, with particularly pristine coins fetching higher prices.
Are there any rare varieties of the 1881 Morgan Silver that significantly impact its value?
While the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar itself is not known for rare varieties like the 1880 series, the mint mark (e.g., "S" for San Francisco, "O" for New Orleans, "CC" for Carson City) can affect its value. The "CC" mint mark, in particular, is highly sought after by collectors.
What is the highest grade and value achieved by an 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar?
The highest grades for an 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar can reach up to MS67, with values that can exceed several thousand dollars, especially for well-preserved Carson City (CC) mint examples or coins with exceptional eye appeal.
How does the mint mark affect the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar value?
The mint mark on an 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar significantly affects its value. Coins minted in Carson City (CC) are often more valuable due to their lower mintage numbers and popularity among collectors, compared to those from Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S), or New Orleans (O).
Can the silver content of the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar influence its value?
Yes, the silver content of the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar, which is 90% silver, provides a base value tied to the current silver bullion market. However, the numismatic value for collectors often exceeds the melt value.
Where is the best place to sell an 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar?
The best places to sell an 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar include reputable coin dealers, numismatic auctions, coin shows, and online platforms that specialize in coins. Ensuring the coin's authenticity and condition can help achieve the best price.
What should collectors look for when purchasing an 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar?
Collectors should look for the coin's overall condition, mint mark, any notable varieties, and signs of original luster. Purchasing graded coins from reputable grading services can also provide assurance of the coin's authenticity and condition.
How should I store my 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar to preserve its value?
To preserve the value of your 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar, store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a protective holder or capsule designed for coin storage. This protects the coin from environmental damage and physical wear.
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