The 2025 Britannia Bullion Series from The Royal Mint was introduced in 1987. The Britannia series began with gold coins and later expanded to include silver, platinum, and palladium.
The Britannia image is a symbol of British strength and stability and has appeared on coins since Roman times. Today’s Britannia coins feature advanced security features that set them apart from other bullion coins.
Britannia Coins Design
The Britannia Bullion Series features the image of Britannia on the reverse. She is the personification of Britain, standing proudly with a shield and trident. The reverse also includes inscriptions indicating the coin’s weight and purity and year.
2025 1 oz Gold Britannia Coin Obverse
The obverse of Britannia coins features the effigy of the reigning monarch. A portrait of King Charles has adorned the obverse since 2023, along with the denomination.
2025 Britannia Gold Coins
The Gold Britannia was first introduced in 1987 and have been minted in 99.99% pure gold since 2013.
While the 1 oz version is the most popular, Gold Britannias also come in fractional sizes, including 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. The fractional sizes includes the same advanced security features like micro-detailing and latent imaging as the larger coins, reducing the risk of counterfeiting.
Britannia Silver Coins
The Silver Britannia was first introduced in 1997 and is one of the most popular silver bullion coins worldwide due to its high silver purity, enduring design, and lower premiums.
2025 Britannia 1 oz Silver Coin, available individually, Tubes of 25 and Monster Boxes of 500
The 2025 Silver Britannia is minted with 1 troy ounce of 99.99% pure silver, placing it amongst the purest available on the market. The Silver Britannia also includes the same advanced security features of radial lines, micro-engraving, and latent images.
Many bullion dealers offer discounted prices for purchases of larger quantities, allowing investors to acquire silver at a lower cost per coin. Tubes of 25 or Monster Boxes also offer convenient ways to store and transport silver.
Why Investors Choose 2025 Britannia Coins Over Others
The higher silver purity of Silver Britannias gives them an edge over the American Silver Eagles.
While both bullion coins are highly respected, Britannia’s carry lower premiums over spot prices compared to American Eagles.
While the U.S. Mint has the edge notch, 2025 Britannia coins feature more advanced security features that including radial lines in the background field, latent images, and micro-engraving that provide an extra layer of protection against counterfeiting.
The Royal Mint
Founded in 886 AD, The Royal Mint has a long and storied history of minting coins for the United Kingdom. The 2025 Britannia Bullion Series continues to be one of the most popular and trusted bullion coin programs in the world. With their high purity, advanced security features, and global recognition, both gold and silver Britannia coins offer excellent value for investors.
The 2025 Canadian Maple Leaf Bullion Series is one of the most widely recognized bullion coin series in the world. Introduced by the Royal Canadian Mint in 1979 with the gold version, the Maple Leaf quickly became a favorite among investors due to its purity.
Over the years, the series has expanded to include silver, platinum, and palladium coins, each carrying the iconic maple leaf design that symbolizes Canada’s natural heritage.
Maple Leaf Coins Design
All coins in the series share the same design that highlights the maple leaf on the reverse. The obverse displays an effigy of the reigning monarch, with the 2025 Canadian Maple Leaf featuring a portrait of King Charles III. The inscriptions include the weight, purity and legal tender face value.
2025 Maple Leaf 1 oz Gold Coin
2025 Canadian Maple Leaf Gold Coins
The Canadian Maple Leaf Gold Coin is one of the world’s most renowned gold bullion coins, prized for its purity and global recognition. First issued in 1979, the coin quickly gained a reputation for its 24-karat gold content. At a time when most gold bullion coins were made from 22-karat gold, the Maple Leaf stood out for its 99.99% pure gold.
Gold Maple Leaf coins are globally recognized and traded due to the combination of high purity and advanced security features make them preferred for investors seeking a safe-haven asset.
2025 Canadian Maple Leaf Silver Coins
The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf Coin was first introduced in 1988 and has since become one of the most popular silver bullion coins globally.
2025 Maple Leaf $5 Silver Coin
Like its gold counterpart, the 1 oz Silver Maple Leaf is minted with 99.99% pure silver, which is higher than the standard for many other silver bullion coins, including the American Silver Eagle.
The Silver Maple Leaf features the same radial lines and a micro-engraved privy mark as other metals in the series providing protection against counterfeiting.
While the 2025 Silver Maple Leaf is available in only the 1 oz denomination, Tubes of 25-coins and 500-coin Monster Boxes are available for bulk investment and greater discounts.
Maple Leaf Platinum Coins
Investors looking to diversify their precious metals portfolio often turn to the Platinum Maple Leaf. Platinum is rarer than the others and its price tends to be more volatile due to its rarity and industrial use. This can potentially offer higher returns in a rising market.
Why Investors Prefer Maple Leaf Coins Over American Eagle Coins
While the American Eagle Coins are widely respected, many investors prefer the Canadian Maple Leaf Coins for the higher purity. Additionally, Maple Leaf coins carry lower premiums compared to American Eagles, making them more cost-effective for investors.
The Maple Leaf coins offer enhanced protection against counterfeiting compared to the edge notch and others found on American Eagle coins.
The higher purity of Maple Leaf coins are easier to sell in certain markets where gold alloys are less desirable.
The Royal Canadian Mint: Craftsmanship and Purity
The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) is known for its meticulous craftsmanship and advanced minting technology. Founded in 1908, the Mint produces all of Canada’s circulation and bullion coinage. Its reputation for innovation and quality is unmatched, and the Maple Leaf series stands as a testament to this excellence.
The 2025 Canadian Maple Leaf Bullion Series offers an excellent combination of purity, security, and global liquidity. Whether you are investing in gold, silver, or platinum, the Maple Leaf coins offer an excellent combination advanced security features, and competitive premiums making them a favorite among investors.
The 2023 U.S. quarters feature exciting designs, including continuing the American Women Quarters program. However, some of these coins contain rare mint errors that make them highly sought after by collectors. This post explores the most notable 2023 quarter errors, what to look for in your pocket change, and how to buy these coins for your collection. A detailed table at the end shows their value in various conditions.
Common 2023 Quarter Errors To Look For in Your Spare Change
The 5 coins that were released in 2023 as part of the American Women Quarters Program coins celebrate the achieves of women in history. The five coins include:
Bessie Coleman Quarter – The first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot’s license.
Edith Kanaka‘ole Quarter – This coin honors a revered Hawaiian cultural icon, composer, and educator who played a significant role in preserving and teaching Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions.
Eleanor Roosevelt Quarter – This coin honors Eleanor Roosevelt, one of the most influential first ladies, recognized for her work as a humanitarian, diplomat, and advocate for civil rights.
Jovita Idár Quarter – Known for her efforts to promote equality for Mexican Americans, Jovita Idár was a journalist, activist, and advocate for civil rights, education, and women’s suffrage.
Maria Tallchief Quarter – The first Native American to achieve international acclaim in ballet and the first prima ballerina of the New York City Ballet.
Error hotspots often appear on the rim, lettering, or profile areas. Be sure to examine any 2023 quarter you encounter—especially if it seems slightly different from others.
2023-P Edith Kanaka’ole Quarter BU “EDITH” Clashed Die Error
2023 P Edith Kanaka’ole Quarter BU “EDITH” Die Clash Error
A die clash occurs when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a coin blank between them. Each die leaves an faint impression of its design on the opposite die. As a result, coins struck with these damaged dies will show traces of the design from the opposite side imprinted faintly where they shouldn’t be.
2023 P Jovita Idar Quarter Die Crack
Close Up Photo Showing the 2023 P Jovita Idar Quarter Die Crack
Die cracks are raised lines or bumps caused by fractures in the die. These errors can vary in size, but those in noticeable places (like Washington’s profile) are more desirable. Cuds occur when part of the die breaks off, leaving a blob-like area on the coin.
2023 P Bessie Coleman Quarter Die Chip Error
2023 P Bessie Coleman Quarter Die Chip Error on Wing of Plane
Die Chips occurs when a small piece of the coin die breaks off, leaving a void which causes raised bumps or blobs to appear on the coins. These blobs often form in recessed areas or along design elements on the coin, such as letters, numbers, or the edges of portraits.
There are many 2023 Bessie Coleman Quarters with Die Chip errors that were issued by the Philadelphia Mint and can be found in your pocket change.
2023-D Jovita Idar D Quarter (25c) Error “In Cod We Trust”
The 2023 Jovita Idar quarter has become notable for a reported error that reads “In Cod We Trust” instead of the standard “In God We Trust.” This error has attracted significant attention from collectors. However, it is still debated whether this anomaly is an actual mint error or the result of post-mint damage or light contact marks that make the “G” appear like a “C”.
If legitimate, the “In Cod We Trust” issue would be classified as a misprint, which increases its value as an unusual collectible.
This error coin has been listed and sold on marketplaces like eBay for more than face value, some listings have seen these quarters priced from $25 to over $400 depending on condition and collector interest.
2023 Maria Tallchief “Extra Feather” Quarter Error
Another frequrntly found Die Chip Error is the 2023 P Maria Tallchief quarter, which has gained attention among collectors due to an intriguing die chip error which appears to add an “extra feather” to the design.
This error occurs in the feather details of her hair, creating the appearance of an additional feather that wasn’t part of the intended design. Coins with this “extra feather” error have been actively traded on platforms like eBay. They are valued between $3 to $6, depending on the condition of the coin and the visibility of the error.
Other Common Quarter Errors
Double Dies (DDR/DDO)
A double die error occurs when a coin is struck with a misaligned die, creating a doubled design on specific areas like letters or numbers. Look closely at “E Pluribus Unum” or the date to detect doubling.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center coins occur when the planchet (coin blank) is not properly aligned. Coins with missing design portions can be valuable, especially if the date remains visible.
Struck Through Errors
These happen when foreign materials (like grease or wire) block parts of the design during minting. The result is a coin with missing or weak details, which can vary in value based on the uniqueness of the error.
Clipped Planchets
A clipped planchet is missing part of the edge due to a misfeed during minting. These errors are usually small, but full or crescent-shaped clips are more valuable.
Where to Buy 2023 Quarter Errors
If you’re looking to purchase error quarters for your collection, here are a few reliable ways to do so:
Coin Shows: Visit coin expos or shows in your area and other events where collectors gather—error coins are often displayed.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Etsy, and specialty numismatic sites often feature error coins. To avoid counterfeits, be cautious and buy only from trusted sellers with good reviews.
Social Media Groups: Many Facebook or Reddit groups for numismatics have members who buy and trade error coins.
Coin Auctions: Larger auction houses often feature rare error coins, but prices can be higher due to competitive bidding.
2023 Quarter Error Values in Different Conditions
Below is a table outlining the approximate values of common 2023 quarter errors in different conditions. Remember that prices fluctuate based on rarity, demand, and the coin’s condition.
Error Type
Good (G)
Fine (F)
Extremely Fine (EF)
Mint State (MS-65 or higher)
Die Crack (Minor)
$3-$5
$8-$10
$12-$15
$20-$30
Die Crack (Major)
$8-$12
$20-$25
$30-$50
$80-$100
Double Die (DDR/DDO)
$15-$25
$40-$60
$80-$100
$150-$300
Off-Center Strike (<10%)
$10-$20
$30-$50
$80-$120
$150-$250
Off-Center Strike (>10%)
$20-$30
$50-$100
$120-$200
$300-$500
Struck Through Error
$5-$10
$15-$30
$50-$75
$100-$150
Clipped Planchet
$8-$12
$20-$40
$50-$75
$100-$200
Common 2023 Quarter Errors in different conditions
Error coins offer a fascinating opportunity to uncover value in your everyday change. Like other quarter error coins, 2023 quarters with die cracks, doubled dies or off-center strikes are rare and can command high prices in the collector market. Be sure to examine any spare change you receive carefully—those little quirks might become a valuable addition to your collection. If you want to ensure you secure one of these coins, consider checking online markets or connecting with a local coin dealer to explore available options. Happy hunting!
With the proper knowledge and patience, you may stumble upon a 2023 quarter error that will become a prized item in your numismatic collection!
At Find Bullion Prices, we constantly strive to provide the best tools for investors and collectors to track and calculate the value of their silver holdings. Recently, we’ve added a new Silver Coin Values Guide, which provides silver coin values with quick access to the current melt value of your coins.
The guide includes values for popular U.S. Mint silver coin denominations, such as dimes, quarters, half dollars, and silver dollars.
Silver Coin Values Guide
Before 1965, most U.S. Mint-issued coins were composed of a 90% silver alloy. This includes dimes, quarters, half-dollars, and one-dollar coins with a date of 1964 or earlier, as well as War Nickels, which were also minted with 35% silver alloy.
The Silver Coin Value Guide displays the up-to-the-minute melt values of all U.S. Mint Pre-1965 coins and provides clear instructions on determining your coin’s value.
Melt Value Calculator
We’ve also introduced a Silver Coin Value Calculator alongside the values guide. This easy-to-use tool allows you to calculate the value of your silver coins quickly and accurately. Enter the number of silver dimes, quarters, half dollars, silver dollars, 40% silver half dollars, and Eisenhower dollars, or even 35% War Nickels, and click the “calculate” button, and the values of each denomination are displayed instantly.
Enter the quantity of each coin type in your collection.
Click the “calculate” button.
Instantly see the total value of your silver coins based on the latest spot price.
These features are perfect for anyone who wants to look up the melt value of their collection or make informed decisions about buying or selling silver. We aim to make managing your silver investments easier, faster, and more accurate.
In recent years, Costco has become more than just a one-stop shop for groceries and bulk household items—it’s now a destination for precious metal investors. Costco’s foray into selling 1-ounce gold bars began in 2023, and the demand for them has been nothing short of a gold rush.
With prices soaring and a steady stream of customers eager to invest in tangible assets, Costco’s gold bars have been flying off the shelves faster than they can be restocked.
More recently, the company has expanded its precious metal offerings to include platinum bars to their unique inventory.
The Popularity of Costco Gold Bars
Costco’s decision to sell gold bars proved to be a masterstroke. The 1-ounce PAMP Suisse Lady Fortuna gold bars were priced at just under $2,000 when they began selling them last year.
Sealed PAMP Suisse 1 oz Lady Fortuna Gold Bar in Assay Card
Despite gold prices surging to over $2,600 per ounce, the company says that demand remains strong. Costco undercuts traditional precious metal dealers premiums while allowing members to receive additional perks in the form of cash back and rebates.
Member are allowed to take advantage of both membership rewards and credit card points to accumulate rebates which helps to further reduce the premiums.
One notable example comes from a 33-year-old customer named Sourav Sethia, who explained to Bloomberg that he frequently takes advantage of pullbacks in the price of gold after receiving phone calls from his local warehouse whenever they restock gold bars.
Costco’s Expansion into Platinum Bars
Costco’s success with gold prompted the retailer to expand its offerings by introducing platinum bars. The PAMP Suisse 1-ounce platinum bars, priced at $1,089.99, are available exclusively online and come with a one-transaction, five-bar limit per member.
Sealed PAMP Suisse 1 oz Lady Fortuna Platinum Bar in Assay Card.
PAMP Suisse Platinum Bars are made of .9995 fine platinum and meet the standards set by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), ensuring their quality and authenticity.
Although platinum is less popular with investors than gold, its introduction marks a significant step in bringing greater awareness to precious metals as a store of value.
With Costco entering the platinum market, the retailer is likely to see a similar level of enthusiasm from its members as it did with gold.
Combining Costco Membership and Credit Card Rewards
One of the most appealing aspects of buying gold and platinum bars from Costco is the ability for members to combine their Costco Executive Membership rewards with Costco Citi credit card points to maximize rebates and savings. Here’s how savvy shoppers are leveraging these rewards to gain even more from their investments:
Precious Metals Rebates Combining 2% Executive Membership Reward Plus 2% Citi Credit Card Cashback
While the annual Executive Membership costs $130, it includes a 2% annual reward on all purchases, including gold and platinum bars.
Additionally, customers who have the Costco-branded Citi credit card can earn an additional 2% cashback.
As of October 2024, Costco’s gold bars are selling at a 1.6% premium to the spot price, while the average premium from traditional bullion dealers is around 4.5%.
Members can receive as much as 4% back when combining the rewards, effectively acquiring gold bars for below spot price.
A Safe Haven for Investors
Costco’s entry into the precious metals market makes them more accessible to everyday investors.
Many of Costco’s members have higher household incomes and are already accustomed to the warehouse retailer’s bulk pricing model.
As Stefan Gleason, CEO of Money Metals Exchange, pointed out, only a tiny percentage of Americans own gold and silver outside of jewelry, but Costco’s offerings could change that. He estimates that increasing ownership to even 5% to 10% would dramatically impact the market.
The Future of Costco’s Precious Metal Sales
Costco sold more than $100 million in gold bars between September and November 2023 alone, proving its foray into precious metals to be highly successful.
With the introduction of platinum bars and plans to expand its precious metals lineup further, it’s clear that Costco sees an opportunity to capitalize on the growing demand for tangible assets.
While the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) warns that gold is not a “safe” investment and can fluctuate based on market demand, many Costco members view the metal as a hedge against instability. As one customer, Johnny Lee, put it, buying gold bars at Costco is an easy way to make a purchase, knowing the historical value of gold as a store of wealth.
As Costco continues innovating in the precious metals market, its customers benefit from the retailer’s competitive pricing, rewards programs, and the convenience of purchasing gold and platinum alongside their weekly groceries. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, Costco’s offerings provide an accessible and rewarding way to diversify your portfolio with precious metals.
As the year draws to a close, pre-sales of 2025 American Eagle will be starting in the coming weeks. Based on previous years, precious metals dealers should start offering the 2025 American Silver and Gold Eagles for pre-sales during the month of October or early November.
These pre-sales allow investors to lock in prices before the coins are even available, ensuring they don’t miss out on the early releases.
While the coins themselves are not expected to ship from the U.S. Mint until the first half of January 2025, many buyers take advantage of pre-sales to lock-in the price and guarantee that they will receive their coins as soon as they are distributed.
Many analysts predicting gold and silver prices will continue climbing through next year, buying during pre-sales allows investors to lock in the price per ounce when they make the purchase. While prices are likely to fluctuate before delivery, speculative investors may anticipate higher returns.
U.S. Mint 2025 American Silver Eagle
As some of the most recognizable and trusted coins in the world, American Silver Eagles (1 oz of .999 fine silver) and American Gold Eagles (offered in 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz of 22-karat gold) are the go-to options for many investors looking for physical bullion. Rumors are circulating that Costco may permanently incorporate these precious metals into their product line will only help bolster the awareness further.
Annual Changes
The release of the 2025 coins marks the beginning of a new production cycle for the U.S. Mint. Near the end of each year, the U.S. Mint ceases minting the current year’s coins. This pause allows for crucial equipment maintenance, as well as the replacement of dies that are used to strike the new year’s coins.
During this period, market availability of current-year coins can become scarce, leading to increases in premiums. Typically, secondary market or random-year Silver Eagles will have the lowest premiums.
What to Expect from the 2025 American Eagle Coins
2025 American Gold Eagle Obverse
While the designs of the 2025 American Silver and American Gold Eagle have remained largely unchanged since the 2021 design refresh.
Both coins are known for their patriotic designs, premium minting quality, and, of course, their precious metal content. Investors will find the 2025 American Eagles to be no different—an attractive investment that combines artistry with intrinsic value.
Dealers are Preparing for Strong Demand
With gold and silver prices hitting record highs week and week, dealers are anticipating strong demand. Early buyers should quickly secure their coins at market prices when they become available for sale.
During periods of strong market demand, the current-year American Eagles tend to sell out quickly, as was the case during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With prices now hitting new highs, a similar scenario could unfold, especially as more investors seek out tangible assets like gold and silver to protect against inflation and economic instability.
Many dealers offer special pre-order pricing, incentivizing those eager to add the 2025 coins to their portfolios before they hit the broader market.
January 2025: Shipping Begins
While pre-sales are beginning now, investors will need to wait until January 2025 for the coins to officially ship from the U.S. Mint. The Mint has historically fulfilled orders during the first half of January.
If you’re considering adding the 2025 American Eagles to your portfolio, now is a good time to explore pre-sale opportunities and secure your position before the rush begins in January. Be sure to check the specific terms and conditions on each dealers’ website prior to purchase to confirm the specific shipping date.
What and Who are U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers?
U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers are a select group of companies that are officially approved to purchase bullion coins directly in bulk.
These Authorized Purchasers (APs) act as wholesalers between the U.S. Mint and the general public, helping distribute coins like the American Silver Eagle, American Gold Eagle, American Platinum Eagle, and other bullion products to the retail market.
Authorized Purchasers sell to wholesalers, retail precious metals dealers, and, in some cases, directly to the public. This distribution network ensures that U.S. Mint bullion products are widely available in both domestic and international markets.
Becoming a U.S. Mint Authorized Purchaser involves meeting stringent criteria, such as financial standards to ensure they have the capacity to buy and distribute large quantities of bullion.
The 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar has a significant place in numismatic history. This mintage year, the U.S. Mint restarted production of $1 coins following a 17-year hiatus.
This is the final year the Morgan $1 coins were issued for circulation since the Peace Dollar was introduced in the Fall of 1921.
What is the 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar?
The Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most iconic and widely collected coins in American numismatic history. It was minted from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921.
First introduced in 1878, the Morgan Silver Dollar came about due to Western mining companies lobbying Congress to stabilize the price of silver following the Civil War.
Passed in 1878, the Bland-Allison Act required the U.S. Treasury to buy large quantities of silver for coinage. This was intended to support the silver mining industry and to reintroduce silver currency.
The Morgan is often associated with the silver mining boom of the American West and the design reflect economic and political climate of the late 19th century. The debate between the gold standard and bimetalism was a central issue in American politics during this era.
1921 Morgan Silver Dollar Values
Circulated 1921 Morgan $1 Coin
The 1921 mintage was large and these coins are more common than earlier Morgans. However, in uncirculated or higher-grade conditions they still hold a premium for collectors.
Condition
Description
Value Range
Good (G-4)
The coin will show significant wear and major design elements are present but heavily worn
$30 to $40
Very Good (VG-8)
Moderate wear is visible, and the design details are clearer but still worn down
$35 to $45
Fine (F-12)
More details on the coin’s design, such as the hair and feathers, are visible but still worn
$40 to $50
Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-30)
Details such as Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers are clearer, though still worn
$50 to $70
Extremely Fine (EF-40)
Light wear is evident on the highest points of the coin, but overall, the details are sharp
$75 to $90
Almost Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58)
These coins show only slight signs of wear on the highest points and maintain much of their original luster
$100 to $150
Brilliant Uncirculated (BU)
BU coins show no signs of wear, retains its original mint luster, may have bag marks, dings or other minor imperfections
$150 and up
1921 Morgan Silver Dollar Condition, Description and Values
Heavily worn or cull condition 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars generally hold little numismatic value and are typically priced at or near their melt value. However, some exceptions, such as mint errors, clashed dies, off-center strikes, or doubled dies where even a heavily worn or cull Morgan Dollar can fetch a premium.
1921 Morgan Silver Dollar Mintage Amounts
More than 86,730,000 Morgans were minted in 1921 across all US Mint locations.
Location & Mint Mark
Mintage Amount
Notes
Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark)
44,690,000
The Philadelphia Mint produced the majority of the 1921 Morgan Dollars.
Denver Mint (D Mint Mark)
20,345,000
First time the Denver Mint produced Morgan Silver Dollars
San Francisco Mint (S Mint Mark)
21,695,000
Produced coins for circulation, in addition to the famous 1921-S Zerbe Proof
1921 Morgan Mint Marks and Mintage Amounts
NGC MS63 Graded 1921-D Morgan $1 Coin
Morgan Dollar Design
The coin was crafted by George T. Morgan, an English engraver who worked for the U.S. Mint. His skill is evident in the intricate details of Lady Liberty and the eagle.
Obverse
On the front of the coin, you’ll find a depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap and her hair is adorned with wheat and cotton.
Obverse of an 1882-S Morgan Silver Dollar Value: $45 to $1,500, depending on condition
Above her head, the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (which means “Out of Many, One”) wrap around the edge of the coin along with thirteen stars, highlight the unity of the original thirteen colonies.
Reverse
Reverse of an 1882-S Morgan Silver Dollar BU
On the reverse, the Majestic bald eagle with its wings spread wide, symbolizing strength and freedom.
The eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon (for peace) and arrows in its left (to signify readiness for defense).
The Mintmark for coins minted outside of Philadelphia is located at the bottom of the reverse above the “D” and “O” in the word DOLLAR.
Inscriptions and Edge
The top edge of the reverse features the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” while the bottom proudly states “ONE DOLLAR,” making it clear what the coin is worth.
The edge of the 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar is reeded with 189 reeds around the circumference.
George T. Morgan
George Morgan was recruited to join the U.S. Mint in 1876 through the efforts of then Director of the U.S. Mint, Henry Linderman, who was seeking to revitalize American coinage.
Linderman recruited Morgan, who was working for the Royal Mint in London as an assistant engraver, and offered him the opportunity to come to the United States.
Morgan accepted the offer and was brought on as an “assistant engraver” under Chief Engraver William Barber.
One of Morgan’s first tasks was creating a new design for the silver dollar, marking the beginning of his long career. His fresh perspective, combined with his European training, allowed him to craft a coin that remains highly regarded among numismatists today.
Other Morgan Series Key Dates
In addition to the 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar, the Series offers many other valuable key dates due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique characteristics.
First Year of Issue – 1878 Morgan
This is the inaugural year for the Morgan Dollar and is highly collectible. Several varieties exist, including the 7 Tail Feathers and 8 Tail Feathers variations, which refer to the number of feathers on the eagle’s tail depicted on the reverse.
Scarce 1893-S Morgan Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is considered the rarest and most valuable in the series. The San Francisco mint produced only 100,000, making it highly sought after in higher grades. The highest-selling Morgan Silver Dollar ever auctioned was the 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar for $735,000 in 2018.
1889-CC Morgan Dollar Carson City Mint
The 1889-CC is another rare coin, minted at the Carson City Mint, which makes it especially desirable. The Carson City mint is known for producing some of the most collectible Morgans. Only 350,000 coins were minted, and it is one of the most valuable Carson City Morgans.
1895 ProofMorgan Dollar
Often referred to as the “King of Morgan Dollars,” the 1895 Proof Morgan Dollar is famous for having no known regular strike versions. Only 880 proof coins were minted, making it extremely rare. Many believe that any 1895 Morgan Dollar found today is likely from the proof mintage. Depending on market conditions and grading, an 1895 Proof Morgan is worth $40,000 to $55,000 at auction.
1904 Morgan $1 Coin – Last YearPre-Hiatus
The 1904 Morgan Dollar is notable as it was the last year the Morgan dollar was struck before production halted. After 1904, no Morgans were produced until 1921.
1921 Morgan Silver Dollar Mint Marks
The Morgan Silver Dollar was minted at five different U.S. Mint locations over the years, and each of these mints has its own distinct mint mark, contributing to the coin’s variety and collectibility.
Mint Location
Mint Mark
Years Minted
Philadelphia
None
1878-1904 & 1921
Carson City
CC
1878-1893 only
San Francisco
S
1878-1904 & 1921
New Orleans
O
1879-1904 only
Denver
D
1921 only
Mint Marks and Years Minted
The Philadelphia Mint, which served as the main minting location, did not use a mint mark. Morgan Dollars from Philadelphia were produced from 1878 to 1904 and then again in 1921.
Carson City, identified by its “CC” mint mark, produced Morgan Dollars from 1878 to 1893. Carson City coins are especially popular among collectors due to the mint’s relatively low production volume.
The San Francisco Mint, denoted by the “S” mint mark, also struck Morgan Dollars during the same periods as Philadelphia — from 1878 to 1904 and in 1921. San Francisco Morgan’s are known for high-quality strikes and are often valued for their sharp details.
New Orleans, with the “O” mint mark, minted Morgan Dollars from 1879 to 1904. The New Orleans Mint was known for inconsistent production quality and softer strikes compared to other mints.
Lastly, the Denver Mint, marked with a “D,” produced Morgan Dollars only in 1921. The Denver 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar’s one-year-only status adds to their collectible value.
Why VAM 1921 Morgan Dollars More Valuable
Many Morgan error coins are classified under the Van Allen-Mallis (VAM) system, developed by Leroy Van Allen and A. George Mallis in the 1960s.
NGC MS61 1921 Morgan $1 VAM-44 Wide Reeds
The VAM system identifies distinct anomalies and characteristics in the dies used to strike Morgan (and later Peace) dollars. These varieties are identified by small changes or errors in the coin design, such as doubled die features, overdates, or misplaced mint marks.
In general, Morgan VAMs that are scarce are worth much more than regular coins. However, not all VAM varieties command a premium. The value of each variety depends on the rarity, the grade, and the specific characteristics. Collectors with a keen interest in U.S. Mint history or unique coin features are often willing to pay more for certified VAM Morgans.
Some of the most sought-after VAMs include the 1878-P 7/8 Tail Feathers, the 1879-P Reverse of 1878, and the 1887-P Doubled Ear.
VAM 1A Clashed E 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar
Clashed die errors occur when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet in between, leaving impressions from one die on the other. When this happens, features from one side of the coin appear faintly on the other side.
On the obverse, you might spot traces of the eagle’s wing or wreath from the reverse side. These marks are usually found around the front of the neck of Liberty’s profile as a faint outline of the eagle’s wing.
1889-O Morgan $1 Clashed “E” PCGS AU55 – Value: $1,500-$2,000
On the reverse, you may find remnants of Liberty’s portrait, including the outline of Liberty’s chin or nose near the eagle’s wings. Though these marks are generally subtler on the reverse, they are still noticeable upon closer inspection.
NGC 1891-O Weak “E” Clash VAM-3A Morgan $1 XF45 Value Range: $400-$600
In some cases, parts of letters from one side of the coin may be transferred to the other, making for a highly collectible clashed die error. For example, fragments of the “E” from “E PLURIBUS UNUM” might appear on the reverse, or reverse lettering elements may appear on the obverse. These lettering clashes are particularly sought after by collectors.
1921 Off-Center Morgan Mint Error
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly aligned between the dies during the striking process, resulting in an off-center design.
1921-D Morgan Denver Mint Error Coin Struck 7% Off-Center Value Range: $10,000 to $12,000
These errors can range from slightly off-center to dramatically misaligned, and they generally sell for thousands at auction.
Double Strikes
Double strikes occur when a coin is struck twice by the dies, creating a doubled or overlapping design. These errors are highly sought after for their distinctive appearance and rarity.
1880-O Morgan $1 VAM 4 Hot Lips PCGS AU53 – Value: $1,250 – $1,500
Die Breaks and Cuds
Die breaks and cuds are mint errors resulting from cracks or breaks in the die. These errors can create raised lines or blobs on the struck coins, adding a unique touch to your collection.
Closeup of a 1921 Morgan Die Break
Morgan Dollar GSA Hoard
The Morgan GSA Hoard was a large collection of uncirculated coins discovered in U.S. government vaults in the 1960s and early 1970s. These had been left over from the production and were minted between 1878 and 1904, and later in 1921. The hoard is named after the General Services Administration (GSA), the federal agency responsible for cataloging and selling these coins to the public after they had been forgotten for many years.
1882-CC Morgan $1 BU GSA Slab – Value: $300-$400
these coins were rediscovered during an audit of Treasury vaults in the 1960s. The GSA hoard largely contained coins from the Carson City Mint (CC), which was known for producing fewer Morgan dollars than other U.S. mints. Recognizing their numismatic value, the U.S. government held a series of public auctions that ran from 1972 to 1980.
Many Morgans from the hoard were in mint-state condition. The fact that they had been stored away for decades left them preserved in near-original condition, which is extremely rare for coins of this age.
The coins were auctioned in special black plastic GSA holders. These coins kept in their original GSA packaging adds to their collectible value today.
The U.S. Mint’s responsibility for issuing investment-grade bullion coins began with the passage of the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985, which led to the production and release of the American Eagle series in 1986. These coins are designed to provide a trusted store of value and wealth for investors.
Today, the Gold Eagle and Gold Buffalo are the two gold bullion coins produced by the U.S. Mint. While both coins are esteemed for their purity and craftsmanship, they have distinct features that appeal to different types of investors and collectors.
American Gold Eagle
The American Gold Eagle was established by the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985 to provide a trusted investment vehicle for precious metals. The first Gold Eagle was released in 1986.
1 oz Gold Eagle Type-2 Reverse
The 1 oz Gold Eagle coin contains one full troy ounce of gold. The coin itself is minted with 22k, or 91.67% gold, with the remainder comprised of a mix of silver and copper. The alloyed composition makes it more resistant to scratches and dents, ideal for handling and storage.
The obverse design features Lady Liberty holding a torch and olive branch. The design was created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens and was originally used on the $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle from 1907 until 1933.
The reverse of design of coins minted until the middle of 2001 depicts a family of eagles that was designed by Miley Busiek.
Partway through the 2001 mintage year, a new design featuring the head of a bald eagle that was created by designer Jennie Norris.
Gold Eagle Premiums and Liquidity
The longer history and extensive production have made it a staple in the bullion market with investors.
When buying, Gold Eagles typically carry a lower premium over the spot price of gold compared to the Gold Buffalo due to its 22k composition and wider availability.
The Gold Eagle is a highly recognized and traded globally, making it a very liquid asset. When selling, dealers will often offer a small premium over spot price during normal market conditions.
Although newer, it quickly gained popularity with investors seeking the highest quality 24k gold.
Gold Buffalo
The overall design is based on the 1913 Buffalo Nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser. The obverse features a profile of a Native American chief.
While the reverse features a depiction of an American bison, also designed by Fraser.
Gold Buffalo Premiums and Liquidity
When buying a Gold Buffalo coin, it is common to find that these carry a higher premium over the spot price of gold due to its pure gold content, collectible design and lower annual mintages.
These coins are also highly recognized and traded in the secondary bullion markets, though slightly less liquid than the Gold Eagle due to its newer introduction. When selling to a bullion dealer or coin store, it is common to receive an offer that is priced slightly above melt value under normal market conditions.
Approved for inclusion in Precious Metals IRAs.
.999 vs .9999 fine
Both the American Gold Eagle and the American Gold Buffalo are excellent choices for gold investors and collectors, each with unique attributes.
Aside from the design, the primary difference between the coins is the difference in the purity of the gold.
The Gold Eagle, with its historical design and durable composition, is ideal for those seeking a robust and widely recognized investment.
While each contain a full 1 troy ounce of fine gold, due to the inclusion of the copper and silver, the American Eagle is 22k gold, or 91.67% with an overall weight of 1.0909 troy ounces.
The Gold Buffalo was created due to investor demand for 24k gold coins, such as the Canadian Maple Leaf or the British Britannia, and appeals to purists and collectors who value its 24k gold purity and classic American design.
Availability
The US Mint manufacturers bullion coins based on monthly sales demand. This just in time, mint on demand model, has become common in government minting operations as a way to keep manufacturing costs low.
The American Gold Eagle is more popular with investors due great awareness because of its long mintage history. Monthly sales figures show that more investors buy American Gold Eagle coins, with an average of 18,000 coins for the 1 oz denomination, with even larger amounts in some of the fractional sizes such as the 1/10 oz and 1/4 oz coins.
Monthly sales figures for the American Gold Buffalo average around 14,500 coins.
Both of these coins are backed by the US Mint. Current year coins are readily available from online bullion dealers and coin stores throughout the country. It is important to note that when shopping for gold coins, the dealer premiums on current year coins are typically higher than those in the secondary market, due to premium increases from the US Mint.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences regarding purity, design, and investment goals. Whether you prefer the historical significance and durability of the Gold Eagle or the pure, high-quality gold of the Gold Buffalo, both coins represent a valuable addition to any investment portfolio.
The US Mint was founded in 1792 in Philadelphia and has been the nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage. It is responsible for producing circulating coinage on behalf of the federal government for the nation to conduct its trade and commerce.
As gold was discovered throughout the US, branch Mints and assay offices opened to serve the needs of a growing nation.
Currently, the Mint currently operates production facilities in Philadelphia, San Francisco, Denver, and West Point and maintains a bullion depository at Fort Knox. Many other facilities and locations, such as New Orleans, Carson City and others have opened and closed throughout our history based on need and demand.
Prior to the Revolutionary War, monetary transactions and trade were handled using foreign or colonial currency, livestock, produce or other means of barter.
Post-Revolutionary War, prior to the ratification of The Constitution, the U.S. was governed by the Articles of Confederation, which allowed for the states to mint their own coins.
In 1788, the Constitution was ratified and discussions soon began about the need for a national mint.
Congress passed the Coinage Act on April 2, 1792. The Coinage Act is responsible for establishing the first national mint in the United States.
At the time, Philadelphia being the nation’s capital, was chosen as the location for the first Mint. David Rittenhouse, the first mint director, bought property at 7th and Arch Streets to build a three-story facility that would become the first Mint.
It was the tallest building in Philadelphia at the time and the first federal building erected under the Constitution.
The Coinage Act called for the minting of coinage in gold, silver and copper in the following denominations:
Silver Coins: Silver Dollar ($1), Silver Half-Dollar ($.50), Silver Quarter Dollar ($.25), Silver Dime ($.10) and Silver Half-Dime($.05).
Copper Coins: Cent ($.01) and Half-Cent ($.005).
A little over one year after the Coinage Act was passed the Mint delivered it’s first coins for circulation.
1800’s Gold Rushes
The discovery of large amounts of gold in North Carolina and Georgia led to the expansion of the US Mint to Southern locations. Demand on the Philadelphia Mint was at its limits. In 1835, Congress passed legislation that authorized the expansion of the mint with three new locations; Charlotte, NC; Dahlonega, GA; and New Orleans, LA.
The mint facilities at Charlotte and Dahlonega were focused on processing newly mined gold into coins. The New Orleans minted both gold and silver coins.
All three southern mint facilities were taken over by the Confederacy during the Civil war. These facilities would sporadically produce Confederate coins.
The US Government regained possession of these facilities at the end of the Civil War. The Dahlonega facility remained closed. The Charlotte and New Orleans mints restarted operations several years after the war.
Coins were minted in Charlotte until the mint closed the facility in 1919. New Orleans continued operations until it was closed 1942.
The Gold Rush in California began around 1849. Transporting gold all the way back to Philadelphia was costly, time-consuming and risky. In 1854, the San Francisco Mint was established to convert miner’s gold into coins. Other mint facilities in Denver and Carson City were established during the mid to late-1800’s.
Gold Confiscation and Bullion Depositories
Gold coins were minted until 1933 when President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 6102. The presidential order made owning gold a crime. Roosevelt and the leading bankers of the day declared that the hoarding of gold coins was causing the Depression to drag on.
Executive Order 6102 required everyone to turn in their gold coins in exchange for Federal Reserve Notes at a fixed exchange rate of $20.67 per ounce of gold.
As a result, the government needed to build a bullion depository capable of storing large amount of recovered gold bullion.
In 1936, the bullion depository at Fort Knox, Kentucky was established for storing gold bullion. Two years later, the West Point bullion depository opened to store silver bullion.
Millions of Pre-1933 vintage gold coins were melted into bullion bars. However, many survived because gold is hard money.
Today, Pre-1933 Gold Coins are a popular choice for investors and collectors because of the incredible history associated with these coins.
Modern Day Mint Facilities
The US Mint operates modern, state of the art minting facilities in Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco. The mint at West Point is used for minting proof and bullion coins and other commemorative coins.
Most of the modern bullion coins for investment come from the West Point Mint. Proof coins are minted in both San Francisco and the West Point Mint.
Coins that are produced at the Philadelphia Mint do not typically contain mint marks.
In 2023, a mint mark was added to the obverse of the American Silver Eagle below the phrase “In God We Trust” indicating coins minted at the West Point Mint.
The US Mint charges a premium over the prevailing spot price for all bullion coins when selling newly minted coins to Authorized Purchasers. The premium covers the cost of manufacturing and distribution of the coins.
It’s been reported that the US Mint recently notified distributors of the increase in the premium, from $2.95 to $3.05 per coin over the prevailing spot price, or roughly 3.8%. Retail investors should expect the increase in premiums to trickle down quickly from the wholesale level to bullion dealers.
US Mint just raised prices on Silver American Eagles to distributors. Now at $3.05 per coin over spot.
How the premium of American Eagle Silver Coins breaks down
With the silver price today at $27.93 per ounce, the Mint added an overall wholesale premium of 9.15%, making the wholesale cost to Authorized Purchasers $30.98 per coin.
The lowest dealer price is $32.58 per coin, a 16.65% premium over the spot silver price today.
The retail premium is $1.60 over the spot or roughly 6% over the wholesale cost. This markup is shared between the wholesaler and retail bullion dealers.
We track prices from more than a dozen dealers for current-year Silver Eagles. The highest currently has a premium of $8.70 per ounce over the spot, a 31% premium.
The two largest APs that serve the retail precious metals market are APMEX and A-Mark. Each will have its markup for downstream distributors and retailers.
Manufacturing American Eagle Silver Coins
The U.S. Mint acquires raw silver that meets the purity and sourcing standards prescribed by law. The purity standard for the 1 oz American Eagle Silver Coin is .999, or 99.9% pure.
The U.S. Mint does not own the refineries that process the ore. Instead, it works with approved suppliers and refineries that meet specific standards.
These suppliers, including the Sunshine Mint, provide the Mint with silver blanks, also known as planchets, which are round metal discs that are then struck into coins.
Silver blanks are produced by rolling the refined silver into sheets and punching out discs of the appropriate size and weight. The prepared planchets are then sent to the Mint’s facilities, where they are struck into coins.
This video from the U.S. Mint on YouTube demonstrates the manufacturing process.
After striking, the coins are inspected for quality. Those that meet the standards are counted and packaged for distribution.
Newly minted investment-grade American Silver Eagle Bullion coins are available only through retail precious metals and are sold in various packaging options, including tubes, monster boxes, and individual holders.
