The value of an 1896 one dollar coin, which is a Morgan silver dollar, depends significantly on its condition (grade) and the mint where it was produced.
Here’s a breakdown by mintmark and approximate value ranges based on condition (as of August 2025):
- Circulated condition (Good to Extremely Fine): The value can range from $46 to $63, according to the [NGC Price Guide].
- Uncirculated condition: The value starts around $70 for lower mint state grades (MS-60) and can go up to $18,500 for pristine, uncirculated specimens (MS-68).
- Prooflike (PL) and Deep Mirror Prooflike (DMPL): These coins have a mirror-like finish and are rarer, fetching higher prices from $150 to $1,500.
- Circulated condition (Good to Extremely Fine): Values can range from $40 to $800.
- Uncirculated condition: These coins are scarce in higher grades. Lower Mint State coins (MS61 or MS62) can cost around $2,000, while a pristine example (MS-66) can fetch as much as $345,000.
- The 1896-O Morgan dollar is considered a key date in the Morgan Dollar series.
- Circulated condition (Good to Extremely Fine): Prices can range from $45 to $1,830.
- Uncirculated condition: The value starts around $2,500 for MS-60, going up significantly with higher grades, reaching as high as $375,000.
Note: The value of silver dollars in lower circulated grades (Good to About Uncirculated) is influenced by the current price of silver.
- You can consult the [NGC Price Guide] for a more detailed price guide based on specific grades.
- Websites like [APMEX] and [Gainesville Coins] provide information on the value of Morgan silver dollars.
What makes a 1896 silver dollar rare?
From my experience, Pictured is an 1896 dollar, primarily scarce because it was minted in San Francisco, and now elevated to rare status because of condition. Carefully handled since minted this coin has minimal contact marks and scuffs. Truly fortunate because in 1896 silver dollars were stored and transported in bags of 1000 coins.
Where is the mint mark on a 1896 Morgan silver dollar?
Great question! On these historic coins, the mint mark can typically be found on the reverse side, just above the denomination. For example, the mint mark is located below the wreath on the Morgan Silver Dollar, while on the Peace Silver Dollar, it is positioned near the eagle’s tail feathers.
What was one dollar worth in 1896?
$1 in 1896 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $38.27 today, an increase of $37.27 over 129 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 2.87% per year between 1896 and today, producing a cumulative price increase of 3,726.96%.
How do you tell if you have a rare 1 dollar coin?
Examine the Coin’s Date. One of the easiest ways to tell if a coin is rare is to check the date. …
Check for Errors. Errors on a coin can also affect its rarity. …
Consider the Coin’s Mintage. …
Do Some Research.