Are Morgan Dollars Silver? The answer to this question is not straightforward, as it depends on the specific type of Morgan dollar you are referring to. The Morgan dollar, named after its designer George T. Morgan, was minted in the United States from 1878 to 1904, with a brief resurgence in 1921. During this period, Morgan dollars were primarily composed of silver, but there are exceptions that require closer examination.
The standard Morgan dollar contains 90% silver and 10% copper. This composition made it a popular coin for collectors and investors, especially during the silver boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, not all Morgan dollars are made entirely of silver. The 1921-S Morgan dollar, for instance, is unique in that it contains 90% silver and 10% copper, like its predecessors, but it also has a small amount of gold in its composition. This makes the 1921-S Morgan dollar more valuable than its silver counterparts.
Moreover, some Morgan dollars have been altered or modified over time, which can affect their silver content. For example, some collectors have had their Morgan dollars professionally cleaned or polished, which may remove a thin layer of silver from the coin’s surface. Additionally, some Morgan dollars have been melted down and then recast into silver bullion coins, which can also alter their silver content.
In conclusion, while the majority of Morgan dollars are silver, it is essential to consider the specific coin’s composition and history when determining its silver content. Collectors and investors should research the coin’s mint mark, year of issue, and any modifications it may have undergone to accurately assess its silver content.
