Silver dollars have been a staple of American currency for centuries, but some rare editions can be worth far more than their face value. Whether found in a coin collection or tucked away in a forgotten drawer, certain silver dollars can fetch hundreds of thousands—or even millions—at auction. Knowing which ones to look for can make all the difference.
Today’s dollar coins no longer contain silver, but older versions might still be hiding in your family’s coin stash. If you come across one of these highly sought-after silver dollars, you could be holding a small fortune. Here’s a look at six of the most valuable silver dollars in history.
The Most Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars
Morgan silver dollars, named after designer George T. Morgan, were minted between 1878 and 1904, with a final limited run in 1921. These coins are famous for their collectibility and sky-high auction prices.
| Silver Dollar | Value |
|---|---|
| 1885 Trade proof silver dollar | $3,960,000 |
| 1893-S Morgan Silver dollar | $2,086,875 |
| 1870-S Liberty seated dollar | $1,092,500 |
| 1884-S Morgan silver dollar | $750,000 |
| 1892-S Morgan silver dollar | $630,000 |
| 1901-S Morgan silver dollar | 1885 Trade-proof silver dollar |
1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar
While not the rarest Morgan silver dollar, well-preserved 1884-S editions can be extremely valuable. One such coin, graded PCGS MS68, sold for $750,000 at auction in 2020.
1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar
With over a million minted, the 1892-S Morgan dollar isn’t impossible to find. However, those with a high-grade rating (MS65 or above) are incredibly rare. Only about 200 coins are believed to exist in MS63 or higher condition. In 2020, an MS68 coin sold for $630,000.
1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
For years, this coin remained hidden in a private collection before making its auction debut in the early 2000s. It was finally graded MS67, one of only two known above MS65. This coin set a record in 2021, selling for $2,086,875.
1901-S Morgan Silver Dollar
Considered the rarest Morgan dollar in mint condition, the 1901-S is almost impossible to find in pristine shape. The last high-quality example sold for $587,500 in 2015, though its value has likely increased since then.
Other Exceptionally Valuable Silver Dollars
Morgan dollars may be the most well-known, but other silver dollars have also fetched jaw-dropping prices at auction.
1870-S Liberty Seated Dollar
The Liberty Seated silver dollar, minted between the 1830s and 1870s, is a collector’s dream. A rare 1870-S edition—one of only 12 known—sold for $1,092,500 in 2003.
1885 Proof Trade Silver Dollar
Among the rarest American coins ever, only five 1885 Trade Silver Dollars exist. In 2021, one of these elite proofs sold for $3,960,000, making it one of the most expensive silver dollars ever auctioned.
Are Susan B. Anthony Dollars Worth Anything?
Unlike true silver dollars, Susan B. Anthony dollars were made from copper-nickel, yet some editions hold surprising value.
1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
A small batch of 1979-P dollars featured a thicker rim than later issues. While circulated versions sell for $5-$10, uncirculated ones can reach $6,500.
1979-S Type II Proof Dollar
This version has a distinct “S” mintmark, making it rarer than the standard 1979-S. High-grade examples sell for anywhere from $100 to $400.
1980-S Proof Repunched Mintmark Dollar
Repunched mintmarks occur when the mint mistakenly stamps the letter twice. Regular 1980-S Proofs go for $25-$80, but repunched versions can fetch much more.
Tips for Selling Silver Dollars
If you think you have a valuable silver dollar, here are a few steps to maximize its worth:
- Check Provenance: Coins with a documented ownership history (pedigree) often have increased value.
- Get It Graded: Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and assign a condition rating, which impacts price.
- Demand for Morgan Dollars is High: Collectors are always interested in Morgan silver dollars, even in lower grades.
- Not All Silver Dollars Are Valuable: Just because a coin is old and silver doesn’t mean it’s worth a fortune. Make sure it’s a rare edition before investing in grading services.
Conclusion
Rare silver dollars can turn up in the most unexpected places, from old piggy banks to family heirlooms. If you think you’ve found a valuable silver dollar, getting it professionally appraised could be the first step toward uncovering a hidden treasure.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
