1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar: The 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics. As the final Morgan dollar minted in Carson City (CC), it holds historical significance and is a prized possession among collectors. Its rarity, combined with limited mintage and strong collector demand, makes it one of the most valuable coins in the Morgan dollar series.
If you’re a coin enthusiast or an investor looking to learn more about this rare silver dollar, this guide covers everything from its history and design to its value and grading.
History of the 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The Morgan Silver Dollar was introduced in 1878, named after its designer, George T. Morgan. It was minted until 1904 and then briefly reissued in 1921.
The Carson City Mint, located in Nevada, was established in 1863 to process silver and gold from the Comstock Lode. It primarily minted coins from 1870 to 1893, producing some of the most iconic silver dollars in U.S. history.
By 1893, the U.S. government began reducing silver coin production due to economic downturns and the repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act. This led to low mintage numbers for many Morgan dollars, including the 1893-CC, which had a final mintage of just 677,000 coins—one of the lowest in the series. This scarcity has made the 1893-CC Morgan Dollar a rare and valuable coin today.
Design of the 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The design of the 1893-CC Morgan Dollar follows the standard Morgan dollar pattern, featuring a patriotic and classical aesthetic.
Obverse (Front)
- Features Lady Liberty, modeled after schoolteacher Anna Willess Williams.
- She wears a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom and liberty.
- The inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is placed above her head.
- The date “1893” appears at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
- Depicts a bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and strength.
- Above the eagle, the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” are inscribed.
- The coin’s denomination, “ONE DOLLAR”, is at the bottom.
- The mint mark “CC” (Carson City) is located beneath the eagle’s tail feathers.
Rarity and Mintage of the 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-CC Morgan Dollar had a mintage of 677,000, making it one of the lowest mintage Morgan dollars. Due to circulation and melting, far fewer exist today, especially in high grades.
Rarity factors include
- Low mintage – One of the smallest production numbers in the Morgan series.
- Historical significance – The last year of Carson City Mint production.
- High demand among collectors – A must-have for serious Morgan dollar collectors.
- Condition sensitivity – Many were circulated, so finding high-grade versions is challenging.
Value of the 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The value of an 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar depends on several factors, including grade, condition, and market demand. Below is a general price guide based on coin grades.
Estimated Value by Condition
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Fine (F-12) | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $6,000 – $8,500 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $9,000 – $12,000 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $13,000 – $18,000 |
| Mint State (MS-60) | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $80,000+ |
Note: Prices fluctuate based on market demand, rarity, and coin certification.
A high-grade MS-65 1893-CC Morgan Dollar can sell for over $100,000, and rare specimens with Proof-Like (PL) or Deep Mirror Proof-Like (DMPL) surfaces can fetch even higher prices.
How to Identify an Authentic 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
Because of its high value, counterfeit 1893-CC Morgan Dollars exist in the market. To verify authenticity.
✅ Check the Mint Mark – The “CC” should be correctly placed below the eagle’s tail feathers.
✅ Weigh the Coin – It should weigh 26.73 grams with a diameter of 38.1 mm.
✅ Examine the Edge – A real Morgan dollar has reeded edges (small vertical lines).
✅ Look for Signs of Alteration – Some counterfeiters add a fake “CC” mint mark to regular 1893 dollars.
✅ Use a Magnet – A genuine silver dollar is not magnetic.
For 100% authenticity, consider professional grading services like:
🔹 PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
🔹 NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
🔹 ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service)
Where to Buy or Sell an 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
If you’re looking to buy or sell an 1893-CC Morgan Dollar, consider these options:
🔹 Auction Houses – Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, and GreatCollections regularly feature rare Morgan dollars.
🔹 Coin Dealers – Reputable numismatic dealers certified by the American Numismatic Association (ANA).
🔹 Online Marketplaces – eBay, APMEX, and JM Bullion offer graded versions, but beware of counterfeits.
🔹 Coin Shows & Conventions – A great place to inspect and compare coins before purchasing.
If selling, ensure your coin is certified by PCGS or NGC to maximize its value.
Final Thoughts: Is the 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar a Good Investment?
The 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most desirable coins in U.S. numismatic history. Its historical importance, rarity, and high demand make it an excellent long-term investment.
Why It’s a Great Collectible:
- Last Carson City Mint Morgan Dollar – A key piece of American history.
- Low Mintage & High Rarity – One of the hardest-to-find Morgan dollars.
- Consistently Increasing Value – A strong investment in the numismatic market.
- Highly Sought After by Collectors – A cornerstone of any serious coin collection.
If you happen to own an 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar, you have a truly valuable piece of history. Whether you’re a collector or an investor, this coin is a must-have for any serious numismatist.
