One Dollar ($1)

Morgan Dollar

United States · 1885

The obverse of the coin features a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty, often referred to as 'Morgan's Dollar Head', with a coronet bearing the word 'LIBERTY' and an eagle, and wheat and cotton surrounding her. The date adheres to the lower periphery. Around the top rim, it reads 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'.

Country: United States
Year: 1885
Denomination: One Dollar ($1)
Metal: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified August 13, 2025More united states coins →

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Overview

Historical significance

The Morgan Dollar was minted from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921. It was a product of the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase a certain amount of silver and coin it into dollars. These coins are highly significant as they represent a pivotal era of westward expansion, silver mining booms, and economic development in the United States. They are very popular among collectors due to their historical context and elegant design.

Estimated value

The value of an 1885 Morgan Dollar varies significantly based on its mint mark (not visible in the image, mint marks were below the eagle on the reverse), and its condition (grade). In Good to Fine condition, it could range from $30-$100+. Higher grades can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Care & preservation

Handle the coin by its edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin, which can tarnish the surface over time. Store the coin in a cool, dry place, ideally in an inert, non-PVC holder or slab designed for coin preservation. Do not clean the coin, as cleaning can significantly diminish its numismatic value by creating hairline scratches or altering its original patina.