Guidelines for Collecting:

Mint State and circulated pieces of the 1890 Morgan are very common if not plentiful. Most 1890 dollars are poorly struck, from dies spaced too far apart or worn beyond their useful life. Bagmarks are typical on lower grade pieces, the result of Treasury storage and handling. Luster on the 1890 is generally dull, and often grainy.

Availability in Circulated Grades:

Always available in all grades up to AU, though low-grade pieces tend to disappear from the scene when the price of silver jumps.

Availability in Mint State Grades:

Readily available in all grades though finding a coin with crisp details and something other than soft unattractive luster can be a great challenge.

Availability in Proof:

Some Proofs of the date are sharply struck while others are soft and unappealing. Look for bold design elements and cameo contrast, a challenge to today’s Morgan specialists.

The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the Spring 2019 Baltimore Auction, where it realized $4,320.

1890 Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights

1890 Morgan Dollar PCGS PR-66, CAC Sold for $14,400   View Lot 3042

1890 Morgan Dollar NGC PF-66 U CAM Sold for $13,915   View Lot 2909

1890 Morgan Dollar PCGS PR-66 CAM, CAC Sold for $13,200   View Lot 4140