1895 Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1895 Morgan silver dollar, minted at the Philadelphia Mint, is one of the most famous and valuable coins in the Morgan dollar series.

Although records indicate 12,000 business strikes were minted, none have ever been found, making the 1895 Morgan dollar known only by its 880 proof strikes.

This rarity and mystery have earned it the nickname "The King of Morgan Dollars."

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Historical Context

The 1895 Morgan dollar was minted during the final years of the Morgan series, which ran from 1878 to 1921. The Philadelphia Mint reportedly produced 12,000 business strikes in 1895, but no known examples exist. Only 880 proof coins were officially struck, and around half of those are believed to still exist today.

Theories suggest that the business strikes may have been melted down under the Pittman Act of 1918 or that leftover 1894 dies were mistakenly used to mint the coins.

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Specifications:

Size: 38.1 millimeters
Denomination: $1
Gross Weight: 26.73 grams
Actual Silver Weight: Approximately 0.77344 troy ounces of silver
Fineness/Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 38.1 millimeters
Thickness: Not listed
Specific Gravity: Not listed

Coin Description:

The obverse of the 1895 Morgan dollar features George T. Morgan's iconic portrait of Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, symbolizing liberty and agricultural abundance. The reverse depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, representing both strength and peace.

The inscriptions include "E Pluribus Unum," "In God We Trust," and "United States of America." There is no mintmark since it was minted in Philadelphia.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

The 1895 Morgan silver dollar is a numismatic treasure due to its extreme rarity and the mystery surrounding its business strikes. Its high value and desirability are driven by the small number of proof coins available. Collectors highly prize this coin, with even low-grade proof examples commanding tens of thousands of dollars. The lack of business strike examples further adds to the allure of this iconic coin, cementing its place as one of the most significant and sought-after coins in American numismatics.

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Numismatic Value:

The 1895 Morgan dollar is one of the most expensive coins in the Morgan dollar series. Proof grades in circulated conditions range from $37,800 (Proof 25) to $46,000 (Proof 55). Uncirculated (Mint State) proof coins are far more valuable, with prices ranging from $53,200 (Proof 61) to auction records exceeding $150,000 for Proof 66 examples. Deep Cameo (DCAM) proof coins fetch even higher premiums, with auction records reaching $269,500 for a Proof 67+ DCAM.

Free Appraisal With No Obligation To Sell

Take the first step toward selling your silver coins by getting a free appraisal today. Our process is designed to be transparent, convenient, and stress-free, giving you the confidence to sell when you’re ready.

At Coinfully, we’re committed to helping you get the most for your silver coins—all from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know I’m getting a fair price for my silver coins?

At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of silver, including the silver content of your coins, and the numismatic value of collectible coins. We provide a detailed explanation of how we arrive at your offer, ensuring that you’re fully informed and confident in the price you receive.

Is my shipment insured when I send my coins to Coinfully?

Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending silver bullion coins, junk silver coins, or American Silver Eagle coins, your coins are protected throughout the entire shipping process, giving you peace of mind that your valuable items are safe.

What types of silver coins does Coinfully buy?

We buy all types of U.S. silver coins, including American Silver Eagle coins, silver dollar coins, silver bullion coins, junk silver coins, and other collectible coins. No matter the type or condition, we’re interested in purchasing your coins, whether you’re looking to sell silver coins for melt value or as collectible items.

What if I’m not ready to sell after receiving an appraisal?

There’s no obligation to sell your coins after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We offer a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your collection. You can decide to sell when you’re ready, without any pressure from us.

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