1921 Morgan Silver Dollar - BU Condition

The 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar is a notable coin for collectors due to its historical significance and the intricacies of its production. As the last year of the iconic Morgan Dollar series, the 1921 issue holds a special place in the numismatic community. It was minted in large quantities, making it widely available, yet certain variations in mint marks can impact its desirability and value.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features the portrait of Liberty, designed by George T. Morgan, facing left, adorned with a Phrygian cap and a crown made of cotton and wheat. The word 'LIBERTY' is inscribed around the edge, with the date below.
• Reverse (back): Displays a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, surrounded by a wreath. The words 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'ONE DOLLAR' encircle the eagle.
• Weight: 26.73 grams
• Silver Content: 0.77344 troy ounces of pure silver
• Fineness: 90% silver (0.900 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar was produced at three U.S. Mints, with mint marks indicating the place of origin. The mint mark is located on the reverse, just below the wreath:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): The Philadelphia Mint struck the largest number of these coins, making them the most common.
• Denver ('D'): The Denver Mint produced Morgan Dollars only in 1921, adding a unique factor for collectors interested in this mint's singular contribution to the series.
• San Francisco ('S'): Coins from the San Francisco Mint are also widely collected, with some collectors considering them more desirable due to their perceived quality in striking.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

All 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars are from the same year, so the rarity is more about the mint mark and condition rather than specific dates. Philadelphia issues are typically more common due to their higher mintages. However, coins from Denver, due to the uniqueness of this being the only year Denver minted Morgan Dollars, can be more sought after.

Various Grades and Values

The value of a 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar depends on its condition (grade) and mint mark. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for these coins:

• Good (G): $30-40
• Fine (F): $40-60
• Extremely Fine (XF): $70-90
• About Uncirculated (AU): $90-120
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $120-200

Coins from the Denver mint ('D') in higher grades can command a premium compared to their Philadelphia and San Francisco counterparts, reflecting their unique minting history.

The 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar is a significant piece of American numismatic history. While common-date coins are more accessible, those from the Denver Mint or in higher grades can be more valuable. Collectors appreciate the coin not only for its silver content but also for its design and the story it represents as the final chapter of the Morgan Dollar series.

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