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WHY YOU SHOULD COLLECT CARSON CITY MORGAN SILVER DOLLARS

Writer's picture: Ed WalshEd Walsh

Updated: 3 days ago

The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is a true gem for collectors, investors, and history enthusiasts. Struck at the legendary Carson City Mint, these coins hold a special place in American history and American silver coinage history.


The silver and gold coins minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada have always fascinated me and they deserve to be prominently displayed in every rare coin collection.


In my childhood, I enjoyed playing Cowboys and Indians and watching Western TV shows such as Gunsmoke, Bonanza, and Big Valley. I also had a great fondness for Clint Eastwood's "Spaghetti Western" films, "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly", "A Fistful of Dollars", and "For a Few Dollars More."


I would let my imagination run wild, envisioning what daily life must have been like during that historic and legendary Wild West era in American history.


During the mid to late 19th century, the American West was seen as a land of opportunity.


With its abundant silver and gold mines and the allure of prosperity, hundreds of thousands of Americans moved westward to pursue their dreams and seek their fortunes at Sutter's Mill in California and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Nevada.


The Allure of Collecting

Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars evoke a sense of nostalgia and adventure tied to the untamed American West. Produced between 1878 and 1893, these coins represent a bygone era of silver mining booms, frontier towns, and the Wild West spirit.


The Morgan Silver Dollar series, is arguably the most popular and sought-after American silver coins worldwide and were produced for a relatively short time at the historic Carson City Mint in Nevada from 1878 to 1893.


Designed by British engraver George T. Morgan, this coin showcases the portrait of Anna Willess Williams on the obverse side and a Heraldic eagle on the reverse.

Every coin features the unique "CC" mintmark, a symbol now associated with quality, rarity, and historical significance.


Owning Carson City Morgan Dollars links you to the legacy of pioneers, miners, and the bold expansion of the United States.


The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is regarded as an iconic silver coin of this legendary era in American history, symbolizing the prosperous silver rush of the late 1800s and the frontier spirit of the "Wild West."


These iconic silver coins are treasured not just for their historical importance but also as valuable investment assets.The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is highly sought after by collectors and investors across the globe.


This blog post delves into the significance of collecting and investing in Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars, highlighting their historical importance, rarity, and value. It also discusses how Minuteman Rare Coin can assist you in completing a valuable full mint set of these coins.


1892 carson city Morgan silver dollar for sale

Historical Significance


The Carson City Mint was established in 1863 as an assay office to process the vast amounts of silver being mined from the legendary Comstock Lode in Virginia City, Nevada. The largest silver vein the world had ever seen.


The Carson City Mint began operations in 1870, producing both gold and silver coins. These coins are a direct product of that historic discovery, making them tangible symbols from one of the greatest mining booms in U.S. history.


The CC mint began producing Morgan Silver Dollars in 1878 and operated intermittently due to political and economic challenges, producing relatively low quantities of coins.


This limited production adds to their mystique and value, making each Carson City Morgan Dollar more than just aesthetically pleasing coins; they hold considerable historical significance in American history.


The Carson City Mint was instrumental during the gold and silver rushes of the late 1800s, minting coins that circulated in trade across the American West.


From my perspective, acquiring and investing in these coins allows you to own pieces of one of the most iconic and legendary periods in American history, known as the "Wild West."


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are famed for their connection to the "Wild West" and the silver mining boom of the late 1800s.


These coins were famously targeted by notorious outlaws such as Jesse James and his gang, Billy the Kid, and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, as they carried out robberies on banks, trains, and stagecoaches. They were minted during an era characterized by gunslingers, booming mining towns, dusty saloons, and renowned outlaws.


The Carson City Mint played a vital role in supporting the silver mining industry of the western region of the United States. As a result, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars bore witness to a pivotal and legendary period in American history.


The Birth of the Carson City Mint


The tale of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars originates with the establishment of the Carson City Mint.

the carson city mint

Established in Carson City, Nevada, this mint branch was created to convert the vast amounts of silver extracted from the renowned 1859 discovery of the Comstock Lode, the largest silver vein the world had ever seen, into coins. The Carson City Mint was inaugurated on March 11, 1870.


Carson City, Nevada, was home to one of the lesser-known branch Mints of the United States Mint, and operated from 1870 to 1893.


The Carson City Mint produced a range of gold and silver coins, such as the iconic Morgan Silver Dollar, throughout its operational years.


Characterized by their "CC" mintmark, these coins stand out for their distinctiveness, which in turn adds to their desirability and appeal to collectors and investors.


Limited Mintages


The limited mintages and limited years of production of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are a key attraction for collectors and investors.


The Carson City Mint operated for a short time, from 1870 to 1893, excluding the years 1886, 1887, and 1888, producing the "CC" Morgan Dollar for only 13 out of the 23 years that the Morgan Silver Dollar was minted.


Compared to other mints, Carson City produced a limited quantity of coins. Consequently, these coins are relatively rare, especially in higher Uncirculated Mint State condition, which increases their appeal to collectors and investors.


Out of more than 600 million Morgan Silver Dollars minted, only around 2 % were produced at Carson City and lay claim to bearing the famous "CC " mintmark.


1879 carson city mint state 63

The Rarity and Value of

Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are highly valued due to their scarcity. They were minted in smaller quantities than other Morgan Dollars, making them much more challenging to find in higher Mint State condition. Certain key dates, like the 1889-CC, 1879-CC, and 1893-CC, are some of the rarest and most valuable coins within the entire Morgan series.


Even coins in lower grades are valued higher because of their "CC" mintmark and historical importance. As collectors and investors increasingly seek these coins, their value steadily rises over time.


The distinguishing factors of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are their scarcity and rarity. The Carson City Mint minted these silver dollars in smaller numbers compared to other mints that produced Morgan dollars.


This was due to a combination of factors, including limited years of production and limited mintage outputs, mass melting, hoarding, and the impact of regular wear and tear on coins used in circulation.


Notable Carson City

Morgan Silver Dollars


The 1889-CC Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar "The King of Carson City Coins" is highly sought after by collectors and investors due to its low mintage of only 350,000. Even coins in circulated condition such as VG (Very Good) and XF (Extremely Fine) command premium prices.


This coin has become a valuable rarity, especially in Uncirculated Mint State condition.


It could be argued that the 1893-CC, the last year of issue, is even more scarce. Despite having a higher mintage output (677,000) than the 1889-CC, the 1893-CC experienced widespread circulation and mass melting, resulting in a low survival rate across all grades.


This has made the 1893-CC a highly coveted coin among collectors and investors worldwide.


1889 carson city XF40 PCGS

Aesthetic And Artistic Appeal


The Morgan Silver Dollar is renowned for its stunning design. Created by George T. Morgan, the obverse depicts a detailed profile of Lady Liberty, symbolizing freedom and progress. The reverse displays a majestic eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, representing peace and strength.


Carson City Morgan Dollars are renowned for their craftsmanship and intricate details, displaying a stunning aesthetic appeal. Collectors value their artistic charm just as much as their historical significance.


Additionally, the "CC" mintmark on the reverse enhances their allure by indicating their origin. These coins are visually striking and ideal for display because of their size, weight, and artistic design.


Carson City Mint mintmark

Investment Potential


Rare coins like Carson City Morgans are not just collectibles; they are tangible assets with strong investment potential. These coins offer:


Historical Value: As symbols from the legendary Wild West era, they hold intrinsic historical significance.


Limited Supply: Their finite mintage ensures long-term scarcity.

Diversification: Precious metals like silver provide a hedge against inflation and


economic uncertainty.

Investing in Carson City Morgan Dollars combines the stability of precious metals with the added value of rarity and historical allure, making them an excellent addition to any traditional investment portfolio.


While many people enjoy collecting coins as a hobby, Carson City Morgan Silver dollars are a versatile hard asset and it is important to consider their investment potential.


They have a proven history of steadily increasing in value and maintaining their worth even when the rare coin market is not performing at peak levels, making them a smart choice for individuals looking to acquire coins that are both collectible and valuable.


Due to their rarity and historical importance in American history, these coins have shown a steady increase in value and consistent price appreciation in recent decades, driven by strong demand from collectors and investors.


Due to their scarcity and historical importance, Carson City Dollars are in high demand among collectors and investors seeking to broaden and diversify their investment portfolios beyond traditional options like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate.


Over time, these coins have proven consistent price appreciation and growth in value, solidifying their status as a reliable tangible asset with rich historical importance and an ideal choice to preserve, protect, and grow wealth.


Aside from being sought after by collectors, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars have also demonstrated their value as a wise investment choice.


1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar for sale


Thrill of the Hunt


Part of the allure of rare coin collecting and investing is the thrill of the hunt!


Discovering a Carson City Morgan Dollar rare date such as an 1889-CC, 1879-CC, or an 1893-CC that fits within your budget is a thrilling experience that fosters a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of achievement.


Acquiring every date in the "CC" Morgan dollar series, in the highest authenticated, graded, and certified condition is a challenging and fulfilling pursuit that brings collectors and investors a sense of pride in their ownership.


A Connection to the Wild West

The End of an Era:


The Carson City Mint operated during the height of the Wild West era, a time of gunfights, gold and silver rushes, and frontier legends. These coins tell stories of the rugged individuals who sought fortune in the silver mines and lived through the challenges of the American frontier.


Owning a Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is like holding a piece of the Wild West in your hands. It’s a connection to an era of bold adventure and untamed possibility.


Throughout its operational years, the Carson City Mint faced various obstacles, such as machinery issues, labor difficulties, and a decline in silver resources, which led to a temporary suspension of coin production from 1886 to 1888.


In 1893, the mint stopped producing coins, marking the end of the Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar and closing a legendary chapter in American history.


Collecting and investing in Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars Conclusion


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are more than just coins; they are historical treasures, works of art, and valuable investments. Their allure lies in their rich history, stunning design, rarity, and enduring connection to the Wild West. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to numismatics, these coins offer a rewarding journey into America’s past.


Start your collection today and experience the pride and satisfaction of owning these remarkable pieces of history. The Wild West is calling—will you answer?


If you’d like to learn more about Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars or explore options for starting your collection, reach out. With our experience and expertise in Carson City Morgan Dollars, we can help you assemble a collection tailored to your interests and goals. Let’s bring history to life!


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars continue to be highly sought after by collectors and investors around the globe for a good reason.


Due to their limited mintages, limited production years, historical importance, rarity, and value, these coins are coveted by collectors and investors and are excellent additions to any rare coin collection.


Coins in higher-graded Uncirculated Mint State condition often command premium prices, as well as rare key date circulated coins in the series.


It's crucial to recognize that "CC" Morgan Silver Dollars represent more than just a symbol of a bygone era of silver mining in American history; they also hold a special significance in the history of American coinage.


As discerning collectors and savvy investors continue to cherish these historic coins, and new collectors and investors continue to enter the rare coin market, the legacy of Carson City Morgan silver dollars lives on, from their historical significance, the stories they tell, and their investment value.


If you are a passionate coin collector or an investor seeking a physical tangible hard asset with historical significance, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are an excellent choice.


These coins are captivating not only for their aesthetic appeal, but also because of the fascinating tales they tell about the "Wild West" and the opportunity for financial rewards they offer to those who recognize their value.


1890-carson city morgan silver pcgs dollar for sale

The history of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars is a captivating journey through the American West during the late 1800s.


Collecting and investing in Carson City Morgan Dollars provides a special opportunity to own pieces of American history, appreciate their aesthetic appeal, and the potential benefit of substantial financial rewards in time.


If you're seeking a fascinating and potentially lucrative investment reward, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars will let your rare coin collection shine with historical significance, rarity, and value.


Assembling a complete collection of 13 Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars containing the most visually appealing and highest graded coins within your budget is a significant achievement for its proud owners.


Additionally, a completed collection further boosts the potential for significant financial rewards.


Minuteman Rare Coin


We are excited to extend an invitation for you to join us in exploring the fascinating world of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars!


Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey that combines history, art, and exceptional financial opportunities.


Join our passionate community of rare coin collectors and investors, and start building a valuable Carson City Morgan Silver dollar coin collection that holds significant historical importance in American history.


A collection that will enrich your life and bring joy for generations to come!


We are excited to share our experience and expertise to empower you to make informed decisions, choose the right coins, and avoid the pitfalls collectors and investors encounter along their rare coin collecting and investing journeys.


Get ready to dive into our Minuteman Rare Coin Company blog posts packed with captivating, valuable, and educational content on collecting and investing, coins series, types, designs, eras, and more delivered straight to your inbox!


Seize this opportunity to expand your knowledge of the historical significance and value of assembling a United States rare gold and silver coin collection that will enrich your life, while establishing a lasting legacy that will be treasured by future generations!



Warm regards,

Edward Walsh, President

Minuteman Rare Coin

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