1881 Morgan Silver Dollar
Numismatics / US Coins

1881 Morgan Silver Dollar

This is a United States Morgan Silver Dollar, dated 1881, designed by George T. Morgan. The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 38.1 millimeters. The obverse features a profile portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, inscribed with 'LIBERTY' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' around the periphery. The reverse (not fully visible but implied by the type) traditionally features a bald eagle with outstretched wings. This specific specimen shows signs of circular wear across the high points of Liberty's hair and the cotton blossoms, suggesting a grade in the 'Good' to 'Very Good' range. The surfaces exhibit an aged, greyish patina with some dark toning visible in the recessed areas near the lettering and stars. There are minor contact marks and hairline scratches consistent with circulation. No distinct mint mark is visible on the obverse (as they are located on the reverse for this series), but the 1881 date is clear and legible. The strike quality appears standard for the era, though the fine details in the hair have softened significantly over time. Overall, the piece represents a classic example of late 19th-century American coinage coinage widely circulated during the expansion of the American West.

Estimated Value

$35.00 - $45.00

Basic Information

Category

Numismatics / US Coins

Appraised On

April 12, 2026

Estimated Value

$35.00 - $45.00

Item Description

This is a United States Morgan Silver Dollar, dated 1881, designed by George T. Morgan. The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 38.1 millimeters. The obverse features a profile portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, inscribed with 'LIBERTY' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' around the periphery. The reverse (not fully visible but implied by the type) traditionally features a bald eagle with outstretched wings. This specific specimen shows signs of circular wear across the high points of Liberty's hair and the cotton blossoms, suggesting a grade in the 'Good' to 'Very Good' range. The surfaces exhibit an aged, greyish patina with some dark toning visible in the recessed areas near the lettering and stars. There are minor contact marks and hairline scratches consistent with circulation. No distinct mint mark is visible on the obverse (as they are located on the reverse for this series), but the 1881 date is clear and legible. The strike quality appears standard for the era, though the fine details in the hair have softened significantly over time. Overall, the piece represents a classic example of late 19th-century American coinage coinage widely circulated during the expansion of the American West.

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