1889 Morgan Dollar
Guidelines for Collecting:
The total of 21,726,000 dollars struck distinguishes the 1889 Morgan as the highest mintage dollar of the early series from 1878 to 1904. However, millions were likely melted under the Pittman Act of 1918 and/or the 1942 Silver Act, and as a result, the 1889 is not the commonest Morgan dollar today. Generally, the 1889 dollar can be found in all circulated grades as well as in lower Mint State grades. Most dollars of this year are indifferently struck and lackluster. Finding a deeply frosty coin with a sharp strike can be a challenge.
Availability in Circulated Grades:
All circulated grades can be obtained for this date with choice EF and AU coins always available.
Availability in Mint State Grades:
Mostly available at MS-63 or 64, we suggest the MS-64 grade is ideal when you can find a sharply rendered and lustrous specimen. Gems exist in smaller quantities but can be found with little or no extra effort.
Availability in Proof:
Numerous Proofs of the date are available, though caution is necessary in finding just the right specimen. Proofs of the date are generally softly struck at the centers and lack any degree of cameo contrast—find a cameo with a sharp strike and you’ll have a world-class Proof Morgan of the date on your plate.
The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the Spring 2022 Showcase Auction, where it realized $3,840.
1889 Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights
 PCGS PR-67, CAC Sold for $31,200 View Lot 9151 |  PCGS PR-65+ CAM, CAC Sold for $18,000 View Lot 3041 |  PCGS PR-66, CAC Sold for $9,400 View Lot 1220 |
