The value of an 1888 dollar coin, specifically a Morgan silver dollar, depends significantly on its condition and which mint produced it.
Here’s a summary of the factors and price ranges:
- Circulated: Values can range from $45.50 (in “Poor” condition) to $63 (for “Very Fine”).
- Uncirculated: Prices increase dramatically for coins in pristine, uncirculated condition, with top-tier examples (MS68) potentially reaching up to $18,500.
- Specific Grades:
– Good (G): $47.50
– Very Fine (VF): $54
– Extremely Fine (XF): $50
– Mint State (MS60-68): $70 – $18,500, depending on the specific MS grade
- Philadelphia (P): Coins minted in Philadelphia are relatively abundant (over 19 million minted).
- New Orleans (O): The 1888-O Morgan Dollar, while not considered rare, holds the 23rd spot among New Orleans Mint Morgan dollars based on mintage figures, [according to Collectors Alliance].
- San Francisco (S): The 1888-S Morgan dollar is considered more scarce due to a significantly lower mintage (657,000) and often exhibits superior striking quality.
- Die Varieties: Certain 1888 Morgan dollars, including the “Scarface” die break and “Hot Lips” doubled die, are particularly sought after by collectors.
- Silver Content: All 1888 Morgan dollars contain 0.77344 troy ounces of pure silver, giving them an intrinsic melt value based on current silver prices. As of August 13, 2025, the melt value was $29.84.
- Strike Quality: Even for coins in the same grade, the quality of the strike (how sharply the details are impressed) can impact their value.
In summary
- An 1888 Morgan silver dollar is generally worth between $45.50 and $18,500 depending on its condition and mintmark.
- Scarcer coins, like the 1888-S, and examples with notable die varieties or superior strike quality will command higher prices.
- It’s important to have your coin professionally graded by a reputable grading service like NGC or PCGS to accurately determine its value. You can find more information about submitting your coin for grading on [NGC’s website] and [PCGS’s website].
How much is a dollar in 1888 worth today?
Great question! $1 in 1888 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $33.84 today, an increase of $32.84 over 137 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 2.60% per year between 1888 and today, producing a cumulative price increase of 3,283.84%.
What is the error on the 1888 silver dollar?
From my experience, 1- 1888-O VAM-4 “Hot lips”. Exciting doubled die with two clearly defined set of lips, chins and noses. A faint second eyelid can also be seen.
How much is a 1888 gold dollar coin worth?
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of July 2025, a Gold Dollar Coin from 1888 in circulated condition is worth between $225 and $425. However, on the open market 1888 Gold Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $19500.
How do you identify a 1888 silver dollar?
From my experience, Mintmarks are a small but important detail deciding 1888 Morgan silver dollar value. Finding your coin was struck at the San Francisco mint, identified by an “S” on the reverse increases the potential value. Just below the ribbon is either an “S” for San Francisco, or an “O” indicating New Orleans mint.