Finding Morgan Dollars in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

The Thrill of the Hunt

You don’t always need a dealer to find this. Here is what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots.

Morgan Silver Dollars represent one of the most exciting opportunities for roll hunters and cherry pickers. These iconic coins, minted from 1878 to 1921, occasionally surface in unexpected places – from bank rolls to estate sales, and even in modern-day pocket change. The key is knowing what to look for and where to search.

Historical Significance

The Morgan Dollar series, named after its designer George T. Morgan, holds a special place in American numismatic history. These coins were minted during a fascinating period that included the Wild West era, the Industrial Revolution, and World War I. Each Morgan Dollar tells a story not just of American coinage, but of American history itself.

Key Dates and Mint Marks to Watch For

When hunting through rolls or bulk lots, certain dates and mint marks should immediately catch your attention:

• 1889-CC (Carson City) – One of the most sought-after dates
• 1893-S – Another highly valuable Carson City issue
• 1895 (Proof only) – Known as the “King of Morgans”
• Any coin with a “CC” mint mark – Carson City Morgans are always desirable
• 1921 coins – The last year of Morgan Dollar production

Identifying Key Markers

When examining potential finds, pay close attention to these details:

The date and mint mark are crucial. An 1889-CC, for instance, can be worth thousands of dollars even in circulated condition, while a common date from Philadelphia might only be worth its silver content plus a small premium.

Condition Indicators

Even if you’re not a grading expert, you can look for these signs of preservation:

• Full mint luster – indicates minimal wear
• Clear, sharp details on the eagle’s feathers and Liberty’s hair
• Minimal bag marks or contact marks
• Original toning can be desirable, but avoid heavily cleaned coins

Where to Search

Circulation Rolls

Many banks still have rolls of silver dollars, particularly in areas with strong collecting communities. Establish relationships with bank tellers and let them know you’re interested in old coins. Sometimes, estate liquidations or old business holdings make their way into bank vaults.

Bulk Lots and Estate Sales

Estate sales and auctions often contain overlooked Morgan Dollars. Look for:

• Old coin albums or folders
• Mason jars or coffee cans filled with old coins
• Collections that appear to have been assembled decades ago

Understanding Value

The value of Morgan Dollars varies dramatically based on several factors:

Key Factors Affecting Value

1. Condition (Grade)
2. Date and Mint Mark
3. Overall Eye Appeal
4. Market Demand

Modern Grading and Certification

While hunting in circulation, you’ll likely find raw (uncertified) coins. However, understanding the grading system can help you identify potentially valuable pieces. Coins graded MS63 or higher often command significant premiums, especially for key dates.

Special Finds: Early PCGS Holders

Keep an eye out for coins in early PCGS holders, particularly “rattler” holders with low certification numbers. These early holders, especially Generation 1.0 and 1.1 white label holders from 1986, can add significant value to an already valuable coin. For example, a low-number PCGS MS63 1881-S Morgan recently sold for over $119,000 due to its early holder status.

Building Your Collection

When cherry picking Morgans, consider your collecting goals:

• Date set – One coin from each year of issue
• Mint mark set – Collecting one from each mint
• Type set – Focusing on different varieties and die marriages
• High-grade set – Targeting the best preserved examples you can afford

Authentication Tips

When you think you’ve found something special, look for these authentication markers:

• Proper weight (approximately 26.73 grams)
• Correct diameter (38.1mm)
• Clear, sharp details in the design
• Proper reeding on the edge

Conclusion

The hunt for Morgan Dollars in circulation or bulk lots remains one of the most exciting aspects of coin collecting. While finding a rare key date is rare, the possibility always exists. More commonly, patient collectors can assemble nice collections of circulated Morgans or find better-than-average specimens for their type sets. Remember to check your change, visit estate sales, and build relationships with local banks. Your next great find might be just around the corner.

Happy hunting!

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