What is the value of an 1880s US silver dollar?

Answer 1

Look on the back of the coin to see if there's a small mint mark letter above the DO in DOLLAR. It may be blank or there may be a CC, O or S. (The M on the front of the coin is the designer's monogram and not a mint mark.)

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 04/2011:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

Very worn condition - $32

Moderately worn - $33

Slightly worn - $34

Almost no wear - $36

Uncirculated - $42 to $16,880 depending on quality

"CC" mint mark (Carson City):

Very worn - $106

Moderately worn - $180

Slightly worn - $204

Almost no wear - $296

Uncirculated - $516 to $20,310

"CC" mint mark (Carson City), 1878 reverse design:

Very worn - $106

Moderately worn - $180

Slightly worn - $216

Almost no wear - $311

Uncirculated - $540 to $5,410

"O" mint mark (New Orleans):

Very worn - $32

Moderately worn - $33

Slightly worn - $34

Almost no wear - $37

Uncirculated - $61 to $68,130

"S" mint mark (San Francisco):

Very worn - $32

Moderately worn - $33

Slightly worn - $34

Almost no wear - $36

Uncirculated - $42 to $394

DISCLAIMER: The retail values quoted are the best available as of the date shown, but may vary significantly due to changes in the precious metals market. Also the wholesale (buying) price of a coin will be less than the selling (retail) price. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation based on inspection of the coin.

FAQ's about Morgan dollarsE Pluribus Unum

The motto E Pluribus Unum (Latin for "Out of Many, One") is on ALL $1 coins minted since 1878 so that's not specific enough to ID any one coin.

Silver Eagles

Silver eagles are bullion coins minted since 1986 for sale to collectors but not for spending. Morgan dollars were made for use in ordinary circulation just like dimes and quarters.

Answer 2

If you mean a 1880-S Morgan dollar. Average retail values of circulated coins range from $32.00 to $39.00 depending on how much wear the coin has. Uncirculated are $45.00 to $65.00.