The value of an 1885 dollar coin (Morgan Silver Dollar) can vary significantly based on several factors, including its mintmark, condition (grade), and any special varieties or errors.
Here’s a summary of the factors influencing the value of an 1885 dollar coin:
- 1885-CC (Carson City): With a mintage of only 228,000, these are considered the rarest and most valuable, fetching thousands of dollars in some cases. A certified example in MS67 can cost $7,495.
- 1885-S (San Francisco): With a mintage of 1,497,000, these are less rare than the Carson City mint, but still more valuable than Philadelphia or New Orleans issues, particularly in higher grades.
- 1885-O (New Orleans): While having a large mintage, many were released decades later, meaning many uncirculated examples are available. They are relatively common, particularly in Mint State, and offer good value for collectors, particularly in prooflike (PL/DMPL) finishes. A MS65 graded example has been valued in the range of several thousand dollars.
- 1885 (Philadelphia – no mintmark): These have the highest mintage (more than 17.7 million) and are the most abundant.
- Coins are graded on a scale of 1 to 70, with MS-60 and higher being uncirculated.
- Circulated 1885 Morgan dollars typically sell for between $30 and $70.
- Uncirculated examples begin around $75.
- High-grade examples (MS65+) can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.
- For example, an 1885 Morgan Dollar in MS63 is valued at $125–$160, while an MS67 could be worth $1,500–$3,000+. An MS68+ Philadelphia issue sold for $39,950 at auction.
- Proof coins: Only 930 proof coins were minted in 1885 and are considered very valuable, with prices ranging from $1,375 to over $60,000 depending on grade and cameo contrast.
- VAM varieties and errors: While not as renowned for major errors, minor irregularities like VAM varieties or “strikethrough” errors can exist, but typically do not command significant premiums unless professionally certified.
In summary
- Rarest: 1885-CC
- Most Common: 1885 Philadelphia (no mintmark)
- Highest Value: High-grade proof examples and the 1885-CC mintmark
It’s always recommended to consult with a reputable coin dealer or use professional grading services like PCGS or NGC for an accurate assessment of your specific coin’s value, especially for rare or high-grade examples.
How much is a dollar from 1885 worth?
$1 in 1885 is worth $33.14 today.
What year is a rare Morgan silver dollar?
Most collectors can only dream about the 1889 ‑CC Morgan dollar, rarest of the Carson City Mint Morgans. This 90% silver dollar is one of the most rare and desirable issues in the entire Morgan dollar series.