New Morgan Silver Dollar & Peace Dollar

If coin collectors have their way, we could very well see a new Morgan Silver Dollar & Peace Dollar minted in the year 2021 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the two coins. In July of 2019, Congress, led by Representatives Andy Barr from Kentucky and Emanuel Cleaver from Missouri, put forth bill H.R. 3757. If passed the bill will allow the U.S. Mint to issue both a Morgan Silver Dollar & Peace Dollar Commemorative Coin in 2021. The mintage of these coins would be limited to 500,000 each, and the coins would have the same dimensions and weight as the originals (26.73 grams, diameter of 1.5 inches, and 90% silver). Proceeds from the sale of 2021 Morgan Dollar and 2021 Peace Dollar would benefit the American Numismatic Association as well as the National World War I Museum, the Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri; and to the Nevada State Museum in Carson City.

Morgan Dollar History

The Morgan Silver Dollar, named after its designer George T. Morgan, was originally minted in 1878. Production of the Morgan Silver Dollar halted in 1904 and then resumed for one more year in 1921. The Morgan Silver Dollar obverse depicts Lady Liberty and its reverse a heraldic eagle. Known for its immense beauty, the Morgan Silver Dollar has become one of the most widely collected Silver Dollars of all time. Furthermore, the Morgan Silver Dollar carries tremendous symbolism as it was made to represent the United States monumental industrial development and expansion on the western frontier.

Morgan Dollar Specifications

• 90% Silver
• 1.5 inch diameter
• 26.73 gram weight
• .77345 troy ounces of silver
• Struck in Proof & Mint State Versions
• Minted at New Orleans, Denver, Philadelphia, San Fransisco, Carson City

Peace Dollar History

The Peace Dollar, named to symbolize peace after World War I, was designed by Anthony de Francisci. The obverse design featured the Goddess of Liberty while the reverse featured a bald eagle with a olive branch in its clutch. The Peace Dollar's first year of issue was in 1921, subsequent to the signing of the peace treaty between the United States and Germany that ended World War I. The Peace Dollar's purpose was to replace the Morgan Silver Dollar which was last minted in 1921. 

Peace Dollar Specifications

• 90% Silver
• 1.5 inch diameter
• 26.73 gram weight
• .77345 troy ounces of silver
• Struck in Mint State & Matte
• Minted at Philadelphia, Denver, & San Fransisco

How Will They Grade?

We may see the first ever Morgan Dollar MS70! Although we are not sure how well the coins will be struck or exactly how the 2021 Morgan Silver Dollar and 2021 Peace Dollars will grade, if they are minted, we do know that there is a high possibility that we will see some Morgan Dollars and Peace Dollars in MS70 grade! If they are struck in a Proof finish then we will see PR or PF70. This will be a first, as no Morgan Dollar or Peace Dollar has ever been certified in perfect grade 70. A certain percentage of modern rare coins usually make 70 grade, so we should see some this time around.

Our Thoughts

2021 could be a very interesting year if the U.S. Mint does does mint a Morgan Silver Dollar and Peace Dollar commemorative coin. Not only will the mintage be incredibly low in comparison with some of the original issued Morgans and Peace Dollars, but there is sure to be a frenzy among collectors if the U.S. Mint sells out. Furthermore, it is still unclear how the U.S. Mint will issue these coins to the public. Will there be a one per household limit or will it be on a first come first serve basis? It is without being said that the mint does not want another repeat of the 2019-S Enhanced Reverse Proof Silver Eagle release, where collectors became infuriated because of the coins immediate sellout as the website did not function.

Another question to ask is whether this potential release will spur future demand for the originally issued Morgan and Peace Dollars. Coins such as the last year 1921 Morgan Dollar or first year 1921 Peace Dollar could be a great coin collectors look to pair with the new 2021's to create a two coin 100th anniversary set. Could the coin collecting community see an increase in value on the 1921 Morgan and Peace Dollar due to this release? It is definitely likely, but will only know once we see if the coins will indeed be released from the United Stated Mint. 

How will the U.S. Mint decide on the design for the 2021 Morgan Silver Dollar and Peace Dollar, and will they involve modern reinterpretations or stay true to the original designs?

For the 2021 Morgan Silver Dollar and Peace Dollar, the U.S. Mint faces the significant decision of whether to adhere strictly to the original designs or to introduce modern reinterpretations. Given the historical significance and collector reverence for the original Morgan and Peace dollars, the Mint is likely to consult with numismatic experts, historians, and possibly the public to strike a balance between historical authenticity and any contemporary design enhancements. This approach ensures that the commemorative coins honor the legacy of their predecessors while potentially incorporating modern design techniques or symbolic elements to celebrate the centennial anniversary. The final decision on the design will hinge on the Mint's commitment to authenticity, commemorative significance, and collector expectations.

What specific criteria or processes will the U.S. Mint use to ensure the quality and grading potential of these commemorative coins, especially to achieve the MS70 or PR70 grade which has never been done for these coin types?

Regarding the criteria and processes to ensure the quality and grading potential of the 2021 commemorative coins, the U.S. Mint is expected to utilize advanced minting technologies and rigorous quality control measures. Achieving a grade of MS70 or PR70 requires flawless production practices, from the preparation of the coin blanks to the striking process and the handling of the finished coins. The Mint may employ state-of-the-art coining presses, specially treated dies, and hand-selected planchets to minimize any imperfections. Additionally, the coins might undergo multiple strikes under controlled conditions to enhance the sharpness and detail of the design. After minting, each coin could be inspected by experts to ensure it meets the highest standards before being deemed suitable for the MS70 or PR70 designation. This meticulous attention to detail reflects the Mint's commitment to excellence for these historic commemorative issues.

How will the proceeds from the sale of the 2021 Morgan and Peace Dollars specifically benefit the American Numismatic Association, the National World War I Museum and Memorial, and the Nevada State Museum?

As for the proceeds from the sale of the 2021 Morgan and Peace Dollars and their benefit to the American Numismatic Association, the National World War I Museum and Memorial, and the Nevada State Museum, the allocation of funds will likely support initiatives that align with each organization's mission. The American Numismatic Association might use the funds to further numismatic education, research, and the preservation of coin collections. The National World War I Museum and Memorial could allocate proceeds towards educational programs, exhibitions, and the maintenance of the memorial site, enriching the public's understanding of World War I's impact. The Nevada State Museum, particularly with its historical connection to the Carson City Mint, may invest in the preservation of numismatic collections, the enhancement of exhibits related to the Comstock Lode and minting history, and educational outreach programs. These allocations ensure that the proceeds from these commemorative coins contribute meaningfully to the preservation of history and the promotion of numismatic knowledge.

Continue reading:

Shop 2021-Present Morgan & Peace Dollars

Morgan Silver Dollar - Rare Coin Profile

The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar