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How to Identify the 1890 Morgan Silver Dollar

Morgan silver dollars, large coins comprised of a blend of 90 per cent silver and 10 per cent copper, were minted between 1878 and 1904, then for one final year in 1921. Over ten million of the 1890 coins were put into circulation, made with the silver found in Nevada's Comstock Lode. When trying to identify an 1890 Morgan silver dollar, take note of several features. These features include the printed date, as well as the coin's images, weight and ridges.

Instructions

- 1
  Check the date on the front of the coin to see if it says "1890." The date is at the bottom of the coin's face.
- 2
  Observe the images on the front and back of the silver dollar. The image on the front of the coin is the head of the Statue of Liberty. On the back, you should see an image of an eagle with spread wings, clutching a set of arrows and an olive branch.
- 3
  Measure and weigh the coin. The 1890 Morgan silver dollars have a diameter of 38.1 millimeters and weigh 26.73 grams.
- 4
  Look at the edge of the coin. The 1890 Morgan silver dollars have a reeded edge, identified by very small notches all around the coin.
- 5
  Compare the coin to an authenticated 1890 Morgan silver dollar, or a picture of one. This will help you recognize counterfeit coins. Real 1890 Morgan silver dollars have small, sharp details that fakes do not have. The numbers and letters on fake coins may also be uneven. Counterfeit silver dollars often have a slippery surface feel to them.

Coin Collecting