Top 9 Valuable Morgan Silver Dollar Error Coins – The Morgan Silver Dollar, minted from 1878 to 1921, is one of the most iconic and beloved coins in U.S. history. Designed by George T. Morgan, this coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch on the reverse.
While Morgan Dollars are already prized for their historical significance and silver content, certain error coins have become extraordinary treasures due to minting mistakes, unique characteristics, or extreme rarity. In this article, we’ll explore the top 9 most valuable Morgan Silver Dollar error coins that could make you rich.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. 1878 7-Over-8 Tail Feathers
- 2 2. 1880-O Morgan Dollar
- 3 3. 1895 Proof Morgan Dollar
- 4 4. 1921 Morgan Dollar
- 5 5. 1893-S Morgan Dollar
- 6 6. 1884-O Morgan Dollar
- 7 7. 1885-CC Morgan Dollar
- 8 8. 1899-O Morgan Dollar
- 9 9. 1903-O Morgan Dollar
- 10 What Makes These Morgan Silver Dollar Errors So Valuable?
- 11 Could You Have a Fortune in Your Possession?
- 12 Why Collect Morgan Silver Dollar Errors?
1. 1878 7-Over-8 Tail Feathers
The 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar is famous for its “7 Over 8 Tail Feathers” variety, where the original design featuring eight tail feathers was modified to seven but not entirely removed. This die clash creates a visible doubling effect, making it highly collectible.
An MS-65 example sold for $40,000 in 2023. Its historical intrigue and rarity ensure its desirability among collectors.
Also Read: 10 Most Valuable Silver Dollar Error Coins That Could Be Worth a Fortune
2. 1880-O Morgan Dollar
The 1880-O Morgan Dollar struck on a quarter planchet is a fascinating error coin. This variety was accidentally struck on a smaller, thinner quarter-sized blank, resulting in a diminutive silver dollar with mismatched proportions.
An example of this error sold for $35,000 in 2022. Its unusual size and rarity contribute to its value.
3. 1895 Proof Morgan Dollar
The 1895 Morgan Dollar, often referred to as the “King of Morgan Dollars,” is notable for its extremely low mintage of just 880 proof coins. Business strikes of this year were either melted down or never released, leaving only the proof versions.
A gem-quality example graded PR-65 sold for $120,000 in 2023. Its scarcity and superior preservation make it a cornerstone of any serious collection.
4. 1921 Morgan Dollar
The 1921 Morgan Dollar Doubled Die Obverse is a rare and dramatic error coin. Doubling is visible on the obverse side, particularly noticeable in the word “LIBERTY” and the date. This variety is especially prized due to the final-year mintage of the Morgan Dollar series.
An MS-65 example fetched $60,000 at auction in 2023. Its visual appeal and historical significance ensure its lofty price tag.
5. 1893-S Morgan Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar clipped planchet error is a visually striking variety. A portion of the coin’s edge is missing due to a defect in the planchet before striking, creating a crescent-shaped void in the design.
An example graded MS-63 sold for $50,000 in 2023. Its unusual appearance and rarity make it a standout piece.
6. 1884-O Morgan Dollar
The 1884-O Morgan Dollar struck off-center is a quirky and eye-catching error coin. Part of the design is missing due to improper alignment during the minting process, creating a unique and visually intriguing piece.
An example graded MS-64 sold for $45,000 in 2023. Its unusual appearance and rarity make it a favorite among error coin collectors.
Also Read: 10 Rare Coins Worth Millions You Need to Know About
7. 1885-CC Morgan Dollar
The 1885-CC Morgan Dollar struck on a nickel planchet is a rare and intriguing error. This variety was accidentally struck on a smaller, thicker nickel blank, resulting in a diminutive silver dollar with mismatched proportions.
An example of this error sold for $30,000 in 2022. Its unique size and rarity ensure its desirability.
8. 1899-O Morgan Dollar
The 1899-O Morgan Dollar broadstruck error occurs when the coin is struck without the collar die, causing it to expand beyond its intended diameter. This results in a distorted and oversized coin with a flattened rim.
An example graded MS-64 sold for $25,000 in 2023. Its unusual shape and rarity make it a prized find.
9. 1903-O Morgan Dollar
The 1903-O Morgan Dollar double struck error is a fascinating variety where the coin was struck twice, resulting in overlapping designs. This creates a unique and visually captivating piece that is highly sought after by collectors.
An example graded MS-63 sold for $20,000 in 2023. Its quirky appearance and scarcity make it a standout addition to any collection.
What Makes These Morgan Silver Dollar Errors So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the staggering prices these Morgan Silver Dollar errors command:
- Rarity: Errors such as doubled dies, wrong planchets, or off-center strikes occur infrequently, making these coins exceptionally scarce.
- Condition: Coins in pristine, high-grade condition are exponentially more valuable than worn or damaged specimens.
- Historical Significance: Many of these errors commemorate important events or milestones, adding intrinsic value and patriotic significance.
- Visual Uniqueness: Minting errors create eye-catching designs that captivate collectors and enhance their desirability.
Also Read: 8 Rare Barber Dime Errors Worth Big Money
Could You Have a Fortune in Your Possession?
While stumbling upon one of these rare Morgan Silver Dollar errors in everyday circulation is unlikely, it’s not impossible. Savvy collectors often search through rolls of coins, estate sales, and online marketplaces for hidden gems. If you come across a Morgan Dollar with unusual markings, a misaligned design, or other oddities, consider having it appraised by a professional—it might just be worth a fortune!
Why Collect Morgan Silver Dollar Errors?
Morgan Silver Dollar errors offer a unique blend of rarity, history, and artistry. They provide collectors with the thrill of discovering something truly one-of-a-kind while also serving as tangible reminders of the imperfections inherent in human craftsmanship. For investors, these coins can appreciate significantly in value over time, especially as demand continues to grow.
The top 9 most valuable Morgan Silver Dollar error coins highlighted here showcase the incredible diversity and intrigue within the world of numismatics. From the legendary 1895 Proof Morgan Dollar to the quirky 1903-O Double Struck Error, each coin tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of minting rarities.