1881-S Morgan Silver Dollar
United States Mint (San Francisco) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1880s (specifically 1881)
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper. Weight: 26.73g. Contains 0.7734 oz of pure silver.
Condition
Uncirculated (BU/Gem). Sharp strike with high luster. The image shows a Deep Mirror Prooflike (DMPL) designation on the flip, indicating reflective fields and frosted devices.
Demand Level
Hot. Morgan Dollars are the most collected vintage US coin series with high liquidity.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$125.00 (raw) - $450.00 (if certified MS65) - $1,500.00+ (if certified MS65 DMPL)
Estimated Retail Value
$1.00 (Face Value in 1881); Current Numismatic Retail: $150.00 - $650.00+
Comparable Sales
Recent 1881-S MS64 DMPL sold for $350-$450. MS65 DMPL examples regularly exceed $1,200 on eBay and Heritage Auctions.
Description
1881-S Morgan Silver Dollar featuring Lady Liberty in profile on the obverse and an eagle with wings spread on the reverse. The 'S' mint mark indicates the San Francisco mint, known for superior strikes. This specimen exhibits DMPL (Deep Mirror Prooflike) qualities with exceptionally clear, reflective fields and a frosted cameo appearance on the features.
Key Features
1881-S is the most common year for high-grade Morgans due to excellent striking. DMPL status adds significant rarity premium. High silver content (0.7734 oz).
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence (95%). Design details in hair and eagle feathers are crisp. Rim denticles are well-defined. Red flag: High-quality replicas exist, weight and diameter must be verified with a scale and calipers.
Flaws to Note
Bag marks (small scratches from contact with other coins) on the cheek of Liberty. Possible surface hairlines if cleaned (though none visible). Value rests heavily on technical grade and surface reflection depth.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for broad reach), GreatCollections (for high-end certified coins), Heritage Auctions, or reputable local coin shops.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean or polish the coin, as this destroys numismatic value. Get this coin professionally graded by PCGS or NGC to verify the 'DMPL' claim, which can multiply the value by 5x-10x compared to a raw coin.