Rare and Valuable Silver Morgan Dollars
The valuable Morgan Silver dollars, minted from 1878 to 1921, are captivating pieces of American numismatic history. Beyond their silver value, certain errors and varieties within the Morgan dollar series are highly sought-after by coin collectors. These are VAMs varieties.
Verification Specifications
Morgan Silver Dollars fetch impressive prices. Every authentic Morgan Silver Dollar weighs exactly 26.73 grams with a tolerance of ±0.5g for wear. The standard diameter is 38.1 mm.
Morgan Dollar Errors
A die clash error occurs when a die collides with another die that isn’t holding a planchet. The design elements from the clashed die become faintly impressed on the next coin minted, creating a ghostly image. Clashed die errors on Morgan dollars may be subtle or prominent, and their value depends on the clarity of the clash marks and the specific dies involved, as well as condition of the coin.
Morgan Silver Dollar VAM Varieties
A significant category of Morgan dollar rarities falls under the umbrella of VAM (Van Allen Mallis) varieties. These varieties encompass subtle die imperfections, doubled elements, or repunched mintmarks of distinctive characteristics create additional value.
Eight Tail Feathers VAM Variety
The 1878-P 7/8 Tail Feathers variety features a Morgan dollar with eight tail feathers on the reverse instead of the usual seven, as noted in the image above.
The 8TF designation refers to the eight tail feathers on the eagle depicted on the reverse of the coin, which was a mistake in the die that was soon fixed, causing a few varieties of Morgan Dollars.Â
Identifying VAMs requires close examination with a magnifying glass or loupe, and it’s worth the investment as some varieties can be incredibly valuable.
Morgan Dollar Doubled Dies
Morgan dollar doubled dies occur when a mishap during the minting process results in a design element being struck twice on the coin. This creates a ghosting effect, where a slightly offset or weaker impression of the design appears alongside the regular strike. There are two main types of doubled dies to look for on Morgan dollars.
First is the Doubled Die Obverse (DDO.)  This variety involves a doubling of elements on the obverse (front) of the coin, which typically features Lady Liberty. Moreover, look for doubling of Liberty’s tiara, facial features, stars, or the motto IN GOD WE TRUST and/or the date of the coin.Â
Next is a Doubled Die Reverse (DDR.) In other words, the doubling affects elements on the reverse (back) of the coin, showcasing the American eagle. Doubled eagle feathers, arrows, and/or lettering within the wreath, or the denomination ONE DOLLAR are where to look for doubled elements on Morgan dollars worthy money.
Coin Roll Hunting Tips
First, do Your Research by familiarizing yourself with known varieties and errors before purchasing rolls. Numerous resources like books, blogs, online forums, and auction results can be valuable tools. Bookmark this page too. A Pocket Digital Scale is essential for verifying the 26.73g weight requirement for Morgans.Â
For capturing the high-resolution detail of the 8 Tail Feathers or VAM Varieties, a Digital Microscope is the gold standard. While rarity is important, consider the overall condition of the coin, which significantly impacts its value. A common date error in poor condition is less valuable than a more common Morgan dollar in mint state condition.
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By knowing what makes a Morgan dollar a rare coin variety or error, you can embark on a fascinating journey into the subject of numismatics and profit. Remember, collecting should be as enjoyable for the collector as the hunt is for the hunter.
Focus on acquiring valuable Morgan Silver Dollars that pique your interest, fit your budget, and increase in value over time. Â
Go on the hunt through original bank wrapped rolls or newly released dates of silver dollar coins to find mint error and variety coins yet undiscovered and still in mint state condition. Attach a finder’s fee to the value.  Now check out this rare Silver Franklin Half Dollar!
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