Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars Guide

Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are among the most sought-after coins in the numismatic world. Minted in limited quantities at the Carson City Mint in Nevada, these coins are cherished for their historical significance, rarity, and striking designs. They are highly collectible, with certain dates and conditions commanding impressive premiums at auctions.

Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars

The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is a subtype of the broader Morgan Dollar series, minted from 1878 to 1921. The coins were produced at the Carson City Mint, established to process the wealth of silver mined from the nearby Comstock Lode. Coins from this mint are easily identifiable by the "CC" mintmark located on the reverse, below the wreath.

These silver dollars are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a total weight of 26.73 grams. The obverse features the iconic Liberty design by George T. Morgan, while the reverse displays an eagle with outstretched wings clutching arrows and an olive branch.

Carson City Morgan Dollas Rarity

Carson City Morgan Dollars are considered rare for several reasons:

1. Limited Mintages: The Carson City Mint operated for a relatively short period, producing fewer coins than other U.S. mints.
2. Survival Rates: Many Carson City Morgans were melted down over time, reducing the number of surviving specimens.
3. Collector Demand: The "CC" mintmark significantly enhances their desirability, making them a staple for collectors seeking a complete Morgan Dollar set.

Collectibility

The allure of Carson City Morgan Dollars extends beyond their rarity. They hold historical significance, representing the boom-and-bust cycles of the American West during the late 19th century.

• Series Completion: Collectors often aim to complete a full set of Morgan Dollars, and the Carson City coins are considered the crown jewels of such collections.
• Prestige: Owning a Carson City Morgan is a symbol of numismatic achievement, adding a level of prestige to any collection.
• Investment Potential: These coins have demonstrated strong appreciation in value over time, making them an attractive option for both collectors and investors.

Mintages

The Carson City Mint struck Morgan Dollars for 13 years, and their mintage figures vary widely by year:

• 1878-CC: 2,212,000 minted. This inaugural year is moderately available but commands premiums in high grades.
• 1879-CC: 756,000 minted. Known for its rarity, especially in higher grades.
• 1880-CC: 591,000 minted. Varieties, such as the "8 over 7" overdate, make this issue particularly interesting.
• 1881-CC: 296,000 minted. One of the rarer dates, especially sought after in uncirculated condition.
• 1882-CC: 1,133,000 minted. More accessible in circulated grades but still highly collectible.
• 1883-CC: 1,204,000 minted. Another more common issue, ideal for collectors starting their Carson City set.
• 1884-CC: 1,136,000 minted. Similar to the 1883-CC in availability.
• 1885-CC: 228,000 minted. The lowest mintage among standard-issue Carson City Morgans, making it exceptionally rare and valuable.
• 1889-CC: 350,000 minted. Widely considered the rarest and most valuable in the series.
• 1890-CC: 2,309,041 minted. Moderately rare, with premiums for high-grade examples.
• 1891-CC: 1,618,000 minted. Less common than the 1890-CC but more accessible than the 1889-CC.
• 1892-CC: 1,352,000 minted. Known for lower survival rates, increasing its value.
• 1893-CC: 677,000 minted. The final year of Carson City Morgans, often commanding high premiums due to its significance.

Grading

Grading plays a crucial role in determining the value of Carson City Morgan Dollars. Common grading categories include:

• Good (G) to Fine (F): These grades are often worn, with many details smoothed out. Affordable options for collectors on a budget.
• Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF): Moderate wear with more details visible. Popular among collectors seeking a balance between quality and cost.
• About Uncirculated (AU): Minimal wear, with most design details intact. A sweet spot for collectors prioritizing aesthetics without paying the premium for uncirculated coins.
• Mint State (MS): Coins with no signs of wear. Grades range from MS60 to MS70, with MS65 and above commanding substantial premiums.

Rare Pieces

Several Carson City Morgan Dollars stand out for their rarity:

• 1885-CC: With its low mintage of just 228,000 coins, this issue is one of the most desirable Carson City Morgans, particularly in uncirculated condition.
• 1889-CC: Often called the "king" of Carson City Morgans, its rarity and high demand make it a cornerstone of any serious collection.
• 1893-CC: As the final issue from the Carson City Mint, this coin holds historical significance and rarity, especially in higher grades.

Notable Sales

Carson City Morgan Dollars have fetched remarkable prices at auctions, showcasing their enduring appeal:

• 1889-CC MS68: Sold for $881,250 in 2013, highlighting its extreme rarity in such high grade.
• 1893-CC MS67: Achieved $546,250 in 2009, reflecting the coin’s historical significance and collector demand.
• 1885-CC MS66+: Sold for $270,250 in 2021, emphasizing the value of high-grade examples for this low-mintage issue.
• 1879-CC MS67: Realized $280,000 in 2015, illustrating the market’s appetite for well-preserved early Carson City Morgans.

Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are a captivating series for collectors and investors alike. With their unique "CC" mintmark, historical significance, and scarcity, these coins continue to be a focal point of numismatic interest. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, Carson City Morgans offer a combination of beauty, rarity, and investment potential that few coins can match.

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