- Home
- Morgan Dollars
- 1880
1880 Morgan Silver Dollar Value: How Much Is It Worth?
The 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar holds a special place in coin collections. It's more than just silver—it’s a piece of American history.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, understanding this coin’s value can be both exciting and rewarding.
The Morgan Dollar series, produced from 1878 to 1904 and then in 1921, is a collector’s favorite.
These coins are named after their designer, George T. Morgan, and feature Lady Liberty on the front and a proud eagle on the back.
The 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar, in particular, is highly valued due to its beauty and unique features.
Key Factors That Affect the Value of the 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar
Mint Marks and Their Rarity
Morgan Silver Dollars came from four mints:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- San Francisco (S)
- New Orleans (O)
- Carson City (CC)
The mint mark appears below the wreath on the reverse side. Carson City (CC) coins are the rarest and most valuable due to their lower production numbers and increased demand among collectors.
Condition (Grading)
Condition is a critical factor in determining the coin’s value. Coins are graded based on their wear and clarity, from Poor (P) to Mint State (MS).
Higher-grade coins with minimal wear fetch higher prices. Here’s a basic breakdown of value by condition:
- Good (G) to Very Good (VG): These coins show heavy wear, which impacts their value.
- Fine (F) to Extremely Fine (EF): These have moderate wear with clear detail, yielding mid-range values.
- About Uncirculated (AU): Slightly worn coins with most detail intact, valued higher.
- Mint State (MS): Uncirculated coins with no visible wear command top prices.
Errors and Varieties
Some 1880 Morgan Silver Dollars come with errors and unique varieties, increasing their collectibility:
- 1880/79 Overdate Varieties: These overdates show remnants of "79" beneath "80", making them highly sought-after.
- Doubled Die Varieties: Some coins display doubling in letters or numbers, adding to their rarity and value.
Average Values of the 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar by Condition
Here's a snapshot of typical values based on the coin's condition and mint mark:
| Condition | Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) | San Francisco (S) | New Orleans (O) | Carson City (CC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $30 | $30 | $40 | $100 |
| F-12 | $40 | $45 | $50 | $150 |
| EF-40 | $50 | $55 | $65 | $200 |
| AU-50 | $60 | $70 | $80 | $300 |
| MS-63 | $85 | $100 | $120 | $500+ |
Values may change with market trends, but these give a solid estimate.
Key Varieties and Errors of the 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar
1880/79 Overdate Varieties
The 1880/79 overdate is a prized version of this coin. Overdates occur when a previous date (like 1879) remains partially visible under the new date (1880).
These overdate coins, especially those from the Carson City (CC) mint, are rare and more valuable.
Doubling Errors
A doubled die error results in some design features appearing twice. Some 1880 Morgan Silver Dollars show doubling on letters or numbers, which collectors find especially interesting and valuable.
Where to Buy or Sell an 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar
If you’re looking to buy or sell, here are some solid options:
- Reputable Dealers and Auctions: Check out experienced dealers or attend coin auctions for trusted transactions.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Heritage Auctions offer Morgan Silver Dollars for sale.
- Grading Services: Third-party graders like PCGS or NGC can verify and grade coins, which can increase buyer confidence and coin value.
Tips for Collectors: How to Preserve and Increase the Value of Your 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar
To maintain and potentially increase the coin's value:
- Store Properly: Keep the coin in a holder to protect it from scratches or environmental damage.
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning coins can reduce their value. Preserve the coin’s original patina and condition.
- Certification: Consider having the coin graded by a professional service. Certified coins often bring higher prices when sold.
Conclusion
The 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar is a beautiful coin with lasting appeal. Its value varies by mint mark, condition, and unique features.
By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions as a collector or seller.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply appreciate, the 1880 Morgan Silver Dollar offers something special for all collectors.
