How to Tell Where a Morgan Dollar Was Minted

The U.S. Mint struck the Morgan silver dollar from 1878 to 1904 and again briefly in 1921. This coin that contains 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper is highly prized by collectors. It features Lady Liberty in profile on the obverse and an eagle with spread wings on the reverse. This coin was produced at several mint locations over the years, including Philadelphia, New Orleans, Denver, Carson City and San Francisco.

Things You'll Need

• Magnifying glass

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Flip the coin over to the reverse and examine the area below the wreath of olive branches.

   • 2

     Check for one or two letters that signify the mintmark. If you do not find one, the coin was minted in Philadelphia.

   • 3

     Read the mintmark. An "O" stands for New Orleans, "CC" is for Carson City, "D" is for Denver and "S" is for San Francisco.