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WHY YOU SHOULD COLLECT AND INVEST IN CARSON CITY MORGAN SILVER DOLLARS

Updated: Jul 13

The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is a true gem for collectors, investors, and history enthusiasts. Struck at the legendary Carson City Mint in Nevada, these coins hold a special place in American history and are arguably the most collected and invested in American silver coin.


The silver and gold coins minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada have always fascinated me and they deserve to be prominently displayed in every rare coin collection.


In my childhood, I enjoyed playing Cowboys and Indians and watching Western TV shows such as Gunsmoke, Bonanza, and Big Valley. I also had a great fondness for Clint Eastwood's "Spaghetti Western" films, "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly", "A Fistful of Dollars", and "For a Few Dollars More."


I would let my imagination run wild, envisioning what daily life must have been like during that historic and legendary Wild West era in American history.


During the mid to late 19th century, the American Western frontier was seen as a land of opportunity.


With its abundant silver and gold mines and the allure of prosperity, hundreds of thousands of Americans migrated westward to pursue their dreams and seek their gold fortunes at Sutter's Mill in California and the silver mines at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.


The Allure of Collecting

Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars evoke a sense of nostalgia and adventure tied to the untamed American West. Produced between 1878 and 1893, these coins represent a bygone era of silver mining, frontier boomtowns, and the Wild West spirit.


The Morgan Silver Dollar series, is arguably the most popular and sought-after American silver coins worldwide and were produced for a short time at the historic Carson City Mint in Nevada from 1878 to 1893.


Designed by British engraver George T. Morgan, this coin showcases the portrait of Anna Willess Williams on the obverse side and a Heraldic eagle on the reverse.

Every coin features the unique "CC" mintmark, a symbol now associated with quality, rarity, and historical significance.


Owning Carson City Morgan Dollars links you to the legacy of pioneers, miners, and the bold expansion of the United States.


The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is regarded as an iconic silver coin of this legendary era in American history, symbolizing the prosperous silver rush of the late 1800s and the frontier spirit of the "Wild West."


These iconic silver coins are treasured not just for their historical importance but also as valuable investment assets.The Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar is highly sought after by collectors and investors across the globe.


This blog post delves into the significance of collecting and investing in Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars, highlighting their historical importance, rarity, and value. It also discusses how Minuteman Rare Coin can assist you in completing a valuable full mint set of these coins.

1892 carson city Morgan silver dollar for sale

Historical Significance


The Carson City Mint was established in 1863 as an assay office to process the vast amounts of silver being mined from the legendary Comstock Lode in Virginia City, Nevada. The largest silver vein the world had ever seen.


The Carson City Mint began operations in 1870, producing both gold and silver coins. These coins are a direct product of that historic discovery, making them tangible symbols from the greatest silver mining boom in U.S. history.


The "CC" mint began producing Morgan Silver Dollars in 1878, skipping three years due to political and economic challenges, producing a relatively low quantity of coins until 1893.


Their limited production runs adds to their mystique and value, making each Carson City Morgan Dollar more than just aesthetically pleasing coins; they hold considerable historical significance in American history.


The Carson City Mint was instrumental during the gold and silver rushes of the late 1800s, minting coins that circulated in trade across the American West.


From my perspective, acquiring and investing in these coins allows you to own pieces of one of the most iconic and legendary periods in American history, the "Wild West."


These coins were famously targeted by notorious outlaws such as Jesse James and his gang, Billy the Kid, and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, as they carried out robberies on banks, trains, and stagecoaches.


They were minted during an era characterized by gunslingers, booming mining towns, dusty saloons, and renowned outlaws.


The Carson City Mint played a vital role in supporting the silver mining industry of the western region of the United States.


As a result, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars bore witness to a pivotal and legendary period in American history.


The Birth of the Carson City Mint


The tale of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars originates with the establishment of the Carson City Mint in 1870.

the carson city mint

Established in Carson City, Nevada, this branch mint was created to convert the vast amounts of silver extracted from the renowned 1859 discovery of the Comstock Lode, the largest silver vein the world had ever seen, into coins. The Carson City Mint was inaugurated on March 11, 1870.


Carson City, Nevada, was home to one of the lesser-known branch mints and operated from 1870 to 1893.


The Carson City Mint produced a range of gold and silver coins, such as the iconic Morgan Silver Dollar, throughout its operational years.


Characterized by their "CC" mintmark, these coins stand out for their distinctiveness, which in turn adds to their desirability and appeal to collectors and investors.


Limited Mintages


The limited mintages and limited years of production, along with the historical era they were produced, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are a key attraction for collectors and investors.


The Carson City Mint operated for a short time, from 1870 to 1893, excluding the years 1886, 1887, and 1888, producing the "CC" Morgan Dollar for only 13 out of the 23 years that the Morgan Silver Dollar was produced.


Compared to other mints, Carson City produced a limited quantity of coins. Consequently, these coins are relatively rare, especially in higher Uncirculated Mint State condition, which increases their appeal to collectors and investors.


Out of more than 600 million Morgan Silver Dollars minted, only around 2 % can lay claim to bearing the famous "CC " mintmark.

1879 carson city mint state 63

The Rarity and Value of

Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are highly valued due to their scarcity. They were minted in smaller quantities than other Morgan Dollars, making them much more challenging to find in higher Mint State condition.


Certain key dates, like the 1889-CC, 1879-CC, and 1893-CC, are some of the rarest and most valuable coins within the entire Morgan Dollar series.


Even coins in lower grades are valued at a premium because of their "CC" mintmark and historical importance. As collectors and investors increasingly seek these coins, their value have consistently risen over time.


The distinguishing factors of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are their scarcity and rarity. The Carson City Mint minted these silver dollars in smaller numbers compared to other mints that produced Morgan dollars.


This was due to a combination of factors, including limited years of production and limited mintage outputs, mass melting, hoarding, and the impact of regular wear and tear on coins used in circulation.


Notable Carson City

Morgan Silver Dollars


The 1889-CC Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar "The King of Carson City Coins" is highly sought after by collectors and investors due to its low mintage of only 350,000. Even coins in circulated condition such as VG (Very Good) and XF (Extremely Fine) command premium prices.


This coin has become a valuable rarity, especially in Uncirculated Mint State condition.


It could be argued that the 1893-CC, the last year of issue, is even more scarce. Despite having a higher mintage output (677,000) than the 1889-CC, the 1893-CC experienced widespread circulation and mass melting, resulting in a low survival rate across all grades.


This has made the 1893-CC a highly coveted coin among collectors and investors worldwide.

1889 carson city XF40 PCGS

Aesthetic And Artistic Appeal


The Morgan Silver Dollar is admired for its stunning design. Created by George T. Morgan, the obverse depicts a detailed profile of Lady Liberty, symbolizing freedom and progress. The reverse displays a majestic eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, representing peace and strength.


Carson City Morgan Dollars are renowned for their craftsmanship and intricate details, displaying a stunning aesthetic appeal. Collectors value their artistic charm just as much as their historical significance.


Additionally, the "CC" mintmark on the reverse enhances their allure by indicating their origin. These coins are visually striking and ideal for display because of their size, weight, and artistic design.

Carson City Mint mintmark

Investment Potential


Rare coins such as Carson City Morgan Dollars are more than just mere collectibles; they are physical assets with significant investment potential. These coins provide:


Historical Value: As symbols from the legendary Wild West era, they hold historical significance.


Limited Supply: Their finite mintages ensures long-term scarcity.


Collecting and investing in Carson City Morgan Dollars combine rarity, aesthetic appeal, and historical allure, making them an excellent addition to any traditional investment portfolio.


While many people enjoy collecting coins as a hobby, Carson City Morgan Silver dollars are a versatile hard asset and it is important to consider their investment potential.


They have a proven history of consistently increasing in value and maintaining their worth even when the rare coin market is not performing at peak levels, making them a smart choice for individuals looking to acquire coins that are collectible, valuable, and provide stability.


Because of their scarcity and significance in American history, these coins have experienced a steady rise in value and consistent price appreciation in recent decades, fueled by high demand from collectors and investors.


Due to their scarcity and historical importance, Carson City Dollars are in high demand among collectors and investors seeking to broaden and diversify their investment portfolios beyond traditional options like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate and digital currencies.


Over time, these coins have proven consistent price appreciation and growth in value, solidifying their status as a reliable tangible asset with rich historical importance and an ideal choice to preserve, protect, and grow wealth.


Aside from being sought after by collectors, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars have also demonstrated their value as a wise investment choice.

1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar for sale


Thrill of the Hunt


Part of the allure of rare coin collecting and investing is the thrill of the hunt!


Discovering a Carson City Morgan Dollar rare date such as an 1889-CC, 1879-CC, or an 1893-CC that fits within your budget is a thrilling experience that fosters a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of achievement.


Acquiring every date in the "CC" Morgan dollar series, which consists of 13 coins, in the highest authenticated, graded, and certified condition is a challenging and fulfilling pursuit that brings collectors and investors a sense of pride in their ownership.


A Connection to the Wild West

The End of an Era:


The Carson City Mint was in operation during the peak of the Wild West period, an era known for gunslingers, gold and silver rushes, dusty boomtowns, and frontier legends.


These coins narrate the tales of the rugged individuals who pursued wealth in the silver mines and endured the hardships of the American frontier.


Owning Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars is akin to possessing a fragment of the Wild West. It serves as a link to a time of daring adventures and limitless potential.


During its years of operation, the Carson City Mint encountered several challenges, including machinery problems, labor issues, and a reduction in silver resources, resulting in a temporary halt in coin production from 1886 to 1888.


In 1893, the mint ceased coin production, bringing an end to the Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar and closing a legendary chapter in American history.


Collecting and investing in Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars Conclusion


Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are not merely coins; they are historical treasures, artistic masterpieces, and valuable investments.


Their allure lies in their rich history, stunning design, rarity, and enduring connection to the Wild West.


Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to rare coin collecting and investing, these coins offer a rewarding journey into America’s past.


Begin your collection now and enjoy the pride and fulfillment that comes with owning these extraordinary historical pieces. The Wild West beckons—will you respond?


If you're interested in learning more about Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars or want to explore options for beginning your collection, feel free to reach out to us.


Utilizing our knowledge and expertise in Carson City Morgan Dollars, we can assist you in creating a collection that aligns with your budget. Let's make history come alive!


Collectors and investors worldwide continue to highly seek Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars, and for good reason.


Due to their limited mintages, limited production years, historical importance, rarity, and value, these coins are coveted by collectors and investors and are excellent additions to any rare coin collection.


Coins in higher-grade Uncirculated Mint State condition frequently fetch premium prices, as do rare key date circulated coins in the series.


It's essential to understand that "CC" Morgan Silver Dollars are not only a symbol of a past era of silver mining in American history, but they also carry a unique importance in the history of American coinage.


As savvy collectors and informed investors continue to appreciate these historic coins, and as new collectors and investors enter the rare coin market, the legacy of Carson City Morgan silver dollars persists, encompassing their historical significance, the stories they tell, and increasing their investment potential.


For passionate coin collectors or investors looking for a tangible hard asset with historical importance, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars are an excellent choice.


These coins are intriguing not only for their visual appeal but also for the fascinating stories they tell about the "Wild West" and the potential financial rewards they present for those who appreciate and recognize their historical and financial value.

1890-carson city morgan silver pcgs dollar for sale

The story of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars is a fascinating exploration of the American West in the late 1800s.


Investing in and collecting Carson City Morgan Dollars offers a unique chance to own pieces of American history, enjoy their visual beauty, and potentially gain significant financial rewards over time.


If you're seeking a fascinating and potentially lucrative investment reward, Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars will let your rare coin collection shine with historical significance, rarity, and value.


Assembling a mint subset of 13 Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars, featuring the most visually striking and highest graded coins within your budget, is a notable accomplishment for its proud owners.


Moreover, a complete collection increases the likelihood of substantial long-term financial rewards.


Minuteman Rare Coin


We invite you to delve into the legendary world of Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars with us!


Get ready to set off on an exciting adventure that blends history, art, and exceptional financial opportunities.


Become a part of our enthusiastic community of rare coin legacy and generational wealth builders, collectors and investors, and begin assembling a valuable collection of Carson City Morgan Silver dollars, which are of great historical significance in American history.


We are thrilled to offer our experience and knowledge to help you make informed choices, select the appropriate coins, and steer clear of the challenges that collectors and investors face in their rare coin collecting and investing journeys.


Prepare to explore our Minuteman Rare Coin Company blog posts, filled with engaging, informative, and valuable content on collecting and investing, coin series, types, designs, eras, and more, all delivered directly to your inbox!


Take advantage of this chance to deepen your understanding of the historical importance and value of building a complete Carson City Morgan Silver Dollar Mint subset collection.


Great ready to enrich your life and create a lasting legacy to be cherished for generations!



Warm regards,

Edward Walsh, President

Minuteman Rare Coin

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