Morgan Dollars are among the most popular of all United States coinage. The series was introduced in 1878 and minted continuously until 1904, and again in 1921. The silver dollars were designed by George T. Morgan and feature an image of the allegorical figure Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap on the obverse, with a Bald Eagle on the reverse.
The Morgan Silver Dollar was struck in large quantities at a total of five different nationwide Mints. Whereas most issues of the series are readily available, there are some issues with low mintages or which saw heavy circulation. These mintage of condition rarities are highly sought by collectors. Some coins also display proof like qualities or have deep mirror proof like surfaces. These coins often command significant premiums and are the focus of high end collectors.
A complete basic set of Morgan Dollars by date and mint mark consists of 97 coins and represents a major accomplishment to complete in any grade. Some collectors spend decades assembling the series in certified coin holders or coin albums. The series is also often collected by die varieties, usually cataloged by VAM numbers (standing for Van Allen/Mallis, the authors of the main reference on the subject).
This site will provide a history of the Morgan Dollar, details on the obverse and reverse design, coin specifications, and coin mintages. Information is also provided for the coins released during each year of the series.