A Guide to Carson City Morgan Dollars

Carson City Morgan Dollars, minted between 1878 and 1893, hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and investors alike. Struck at the Carson City Mint, located in Nevada, these silver dollars are not only a testament to the rich history of the Wild West but are also among the most coveted coins in American numismatics. Their limited mintages, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal make them a cornerstone of any serious coin collection. In this article, we’ll explore the history, rarity, and value of each Carson City Morgan Dollar date and mintage.

A Brief History of the Carson City Mint

The Carson City Mint was established in 1863 during the silver boom in Nevada, driven by the discovery of the Comstock Lode. It operated intermittently from 1870 to 1893, producing a variety of coinage, including the iconic Morgan Dollar. The "CC" mintmark, found on the reverse of these coins below the wreath, symbolizes the mint and has become synonymous with rarity and quality among collectors.

The Carson City Morgan Dollar Series: Dates and Mintages

Here’s a detailed look at each Carson City Morgan Dollar by date, along with their mintage figures, rarity, and general market value:


1878-CC

  • Mintage: 2,212,000
  • Rarity: While it has the highest mintage among Carson City Morgans, many were melted under the Pittman Act, making it moderately scarce.
  • Value: Ranges from $350 in lower grades to over $5,000 in MS65.

1879-CC

  • Mintage: 756,000
  • Rarity: The "Capped Die" variety is particularly rare and sought after.
  • Value: $500 in circulated grades to $30,000+ for high-grade "Capped Die" examples.

1880-CC

  • Mintage: 591,000
  • Rarity: Known for its varieties, including the "8 over 7" overdate.
  • Value: $400 in VF to $15,000+ in MS65, depending on the variety.

1881-CC

  • Mintage: 296,000
  • Rarity: Despite its low mintage, many were preserved in high grades.
  • Value: Starts at $500 in XF and exceeds $10,000 in gem uncirculated grades.

1882-CC

  • Mintage: 1,133,000
  • Rarity: One of the more common Carson City Morgans, but still highly desirable.
  • Value: $250 in circulated grades to $4,000 in MS65.

1883-CC

  • Mintage: 1,204,000
  • Rarity: Similar to the 1882-CC in terms of availability.
  • Value: $250 in circulated grades to $3,500 in MS65.

 

1884-CC

  • Mintage: 1,136,000
  • Rarity: Another widely available CC Morgan, often found in mint state.
  • Value: $250 in circulated grades to $3,000 in MS65.

 

1885-CC

  • Mintage: 228,000
  • Rarity: The second-lowest mintage in the series, and highly prized by collectors.
  • Value: $1,000 in circulated grades to $25,000+ in MS65.

1889-CC

  • Mintage: 350,000
  • Rarity: The "King of the Carson City Morgans," due to its low survival rate and demand.
  • Value: $3,500 in G4 to $100,000+ in MS65.

 

 

1890-CC

  • Mintage: 591,000
  • Rarity: Relatively available compared to other CC Morgans.
  • Value: $350 in VF to $6,000+ in MS65.

 

 

1891-CC

  • Mintage: 1,618,000
  • Rarity: A higher mintage makes it one of the more accessible Carson City dollars.
  • Value: $250 in circulated grades to $4,000 in MS65.

 

 

 

1892-CC

  • Mintage: 1,352,000
  • Rarity: Moderate availability, though finding high-grade examples can be challenging.
  • Value: $300 in circulated grades to $7,500+ in MS65.

 

 

1893-CC

  • Mintage: 677,000
  • Rarity: The final year of Carson City Morgan production, and a favorite among collectors.
  • Value: $1,000 in circulated grades to $25,000+ in MS65.

 

The Rarity and Appeal of Carson City Morgans

Carson City Morgans are highly sought after for their historical context and scarcity. Many were melted down during the Pittman Act of 1918, further reducing their availability. The "GSA Hoard," a government sale in the 1970s, reintroduced many Carson City Morgans to the market, often in original holders, which have become collectible in their own right.

 

Investing in Carson City Morgan Dollars

The value of Carson City Morgan Dollars has consistently appreciated over time, making them a reliable investment. Their combination of historical significance, limited supply, and collector demand ensures they remain a top choice for both seasoned numismatists and new investors.

 

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re building a complete set or seeking a single iconic coin, Carson City Morgan Dollars are a cornerstone of American numismatics. Each coin tells a story of the Old West and the pioneering spirit of a young nation. At ParadimeCoins.com, we’re proud to offer a curated selection of Carson City Morgans, helping collectors and investors acquire these timeless treasures. Browse our inventory today and take the next step in your numismatic journey.

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