The 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar is a rare and valuable coin that many collectors treasure. Made in San Francisco in 1886, this coin has become a key piece for anyone collecting Morgan silver dollars. Let’s break down its history, what makes it special, and how much it’s worth.
What is the Morgan Silver Dollar?
The Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most famous coins in U.S. history. It was minted between 1878 and 1904, and once again in 1921. Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, the coin features Lady Liberty on the front and an eagle with outstretched wings on the back.
These coins are made of 90% silver and 10% copper, making them valuable not only to collectors but also because of their silver content. The Morgan Silver Dollar was minted in several locations, including Philadelphia, New Orleans, Carson City, and San Francisco.
Why Is the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar Special?
The “S” on the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar tells us it was minted in San Francisco. While millions of Morgan dollars were made at other mints, only 750,000 were produced in San Francisco in 1886. Many of these coins were lost, melted, or used in everyday trade, so finding one in good condition today is difficult.
How Much Is the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar Worth?
The value of this coin depends mostly on its condition. The better shape it’s in, the more it’s worth. Below is a table showing the estimated value of the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar based on its grade (condition):
| Condition/Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Good (G-VG) | $50 to $100 |
| Fine to Extremely Fine (F-XF) | $200 to $400 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $600 to $1,000 |
| Mint State (MS60-MS63) | $1,200 to $2,500 |
| High Mint State (MS64-MS66) | $4,000 to $10,000+ |
Coins in higher mint states (MS65 and above) can be extremely rare and command high prices. If a coin is prooflike (PL) or deep mirror prooflike (DMPL), meaning it has a mirror-like surface, it could be even more valuable.
Why Do Collectors Want the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar?
There are a few key reasons why collectors love the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar:
- Low Mintage: With only 750,000 made, this coin is harder to find compared to others from the Morgan series.
- Rarity in High Grades: Many surviving coins are worn, making those in near-perfect condition extremely rare.
- Historical Significance: This coin represents an important part of U.S. history, especially during the silver boom.
- Quality Strikes: Coins from the San Francisco Mint are known for their sharp designs and high-quality production.
Conclusion
The 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar is a valuable piece of history. Its rarity and beauty make it a favorite among coin collectors. If you find one in good condition, it could be worth a lot of money, and its value may increase as time goes on. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, the 1886-S is a coin worth having in your collection.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar considered rare?
The 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar had a relatively low mintage of 750,000 coins, and many were lost, melted, or heavily circulated. Finding one in excellent condition is rare, making it highly valuable to collectors.
How much is an 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar worth?
The value of the 1886-S Morgan Silver Dollar varies based on its condition. In circulated condition, it can be worth $50 to $1,000, while uncirculated coins (Mint State) can be worth $1,200 to over $10,000, depending on the grade.
What is the significance of the “S” mint mark on the 1886-S Morgan Dollar?
The “S” mint mark indicates that the coin was minted in San Francisco. This mint is known for producing high-quality strikes, and the 1886-S is one of the rarer issues in the Morgan dollar series.