The Morgan Dollar is one of the most iconic coins in American numismatic history, cherished by collectors, investors, and history enthusiasts alike. Its design, depicting Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, has made it a symbol of American pride and economic strength.
However, beyond its aesthetic appeal, there is an important aspect that significantly impacts its value and authenticity: its weight. The weight of a Morgan Dollar is not just a technical measurement; it plays a crucial role in determining whether a coin is genuine or counterfeit, as well as influencing its market value.
In this article, we will explore how much a Morgan Dollar weighs, why this is important, and the factors that can affect the weight of these historical coins. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, understanding the weight of a Morgan Dollar is essential for properly assessing its value and ensuring its authenticity.
What Is a Morgan Dollar?
The Morgan Dollar was designed by George T. Morgan, a British engraver working for the U.S. Mint. It was first minted in 1878 and remained in circulation until 1904, with a brief resumption in 1921. During its production, millions of these silver coins were struck in mints across the United States, making it one of the most widely circulated silver coins of its time. The Morgan Dollar has become a beloved piece of American history, renowned not only for its beauty but also for the silver it contains.
The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, giving it a significant weight, which was standard for U.S. silver dollars of that era. Over the years, the Morgan Dollar has gained a reputation for being both a valuable collector’s item and an important piece of the United States’ monetary history.
How Much Does a Morgan Dollar Weigh?
The exact weight of a Morgan Dollar is one of the factors that distinguishes it from other coins. An authentic Morgan Dollar typically weighs 0.059 pounds or 0.02673 kilograms.
This weight is consistent across all genuine Morgan Dollars, regardless of the mint year or the facility where they were produced. The weight is crucial in identifying a real Morgan Dollar from a counterfeit one, as slight deviations can indicate a fake coin.
Though the weight of a Morgan Dollar is standardized, there can be minor variations due to factors like wear and tear or the slight differences in metal compositions used in different mints. However, the official weight for a new, uncirculated coin is 26.73 grams, which equals 0.858 troy ounces.
Comparison Table: Morgan Dollar vs. Other U.S. Coins
To put the weight of the Morgan Dollar into perspective, it’s helpful to compare it with the weights of other U.S. coins, both historical and modern. Here’s how the Morgan Dollar compares to some other notable coins:
| Coin Type | Weight (grams) | Weight (troy oz) | Composition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morgan Dollar | 26.73 | 0.858 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Eisenhower Dollar | 22.68 | 0.732 | 40% Silver, 60% Copper-Nickel |
| Sacagawea Dollar | 8.1 | 0.260 | 88.5% Copper, 6% Zinc, 3.5% Manganese |
| American Silver Eagle | 31.1 | 1.000 | 99.9% Silver |
| Peace Dollar | 26.73 | 0.858 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
As you can see, the Morgan Dollar is heavier than the Eisenhower Dollar and Sacagawea Dollar, which are both larger in size but made with a different composition of metals. Its weight is almost identical to the Peace Dollar, which succeeded the Morgan Dollar in 1921 and shares the same silver-to-copper ratio.
Basics of a Morgan Dollar’s Weight
Several key characteristics define the Morgan Dollar’s weight and dimensions. These specifications are essential for identifying genuine coins and distinguishing them from counterfeits. The important details of a Morgan Dollar’s weight include:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Thickness: 2.4 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Minting Period: 1878–1904, 1921
These dimensions and weight are critical for the integrity of the coin. Any significant deviation from these measurements can signal a counterfeit or altered coin. As a collector or investor, knowing these specifics allows you to properly assess the coin’s authenticity and condition.
Factors That Affect a Morgan Dollar’s Weight
While the Morgan Dollar’s weight is generally consistent, several factors can influence its weight over time. These include:
1. Wear and Tear
Over the years, Morgan Dollars that have circulated may experience significant wear, which can wear down the edges and reduce the coin’s mass. This process, known as “abrasion,” happens as the coin comes into contact with other objects. The amount of wear will vary depending on how often the coin has been used and how long it has been in circulation.
2. Mint Variations
Although the U.S. Mint uses standardized procedures for producing coins, minor variations in the alloy mix used at different mints could lead to slight differences in weight. For example, the silver content in some coins might be marginally higher or lower due to slight inconsistencies in the metal alloy used in the minting process.
3. Environmental Factors
Coins exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as humidity, moisture, or chemicals, may undergo corrosion, which could affect their weight. Tarnishing and other forms of corrosion can alter the surface of the coin and lead to a loss of material.
4. Counterfeit Coins
Counterfeit Morgan Dollars are often lighter than genuine coins, as counterfeiters might use lower-quality metals or other materials that don’t meet the original specifications. For this reason, knowing the exact weight of a Morgan Dollar is an essential step in verifying its authenticity.
Why Does a Morgan Dollar’s Weight Matter?
The weight of a Morgan Dollar is a key indicator of its authenticity and value. There are several reasons why the weight is so important:
1. Authenticity
One of the most important reasons to understand the weight of a Morgan Dollar is to verify its authenticity. A genuine Morgan Dollar should match the weight specifications provided by the U.S. Mint. If a coin weighs less than the standard weight, it could be a counterfeit.
2. Value
The value of a Morgan Dollar is directly tied to its silver content, and the weight of the coin determines how much silver it contains. As silver prices fluctuate, the weight of the coin impacts its melt value. A well-preserved coin in good condition will also be more valuable than one that has been worn down or damaged over time.
3. Collector Interest
For coin collectors, the condition of the coin is paramount. Coins with their original weight intact, with minimal wear, are often more highly sought after than those that show significant signs of circulation. The weight is one of the factors that collectors use to gauge the coin’s condition and historical significance.
How Much Does a Morgan Dollar Cost?
The price of a Morgan Dollar is influenced by several factors beyond just its weight. While the silver content is a significant factor, collectors and investors also consider:
1. Silver Content
A Morgan Dollar contains approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver. As of 2025, the price of silver fluctuates, so the melt value of a Morgan Dollar is directly tied to the current market price of silver.
2. Condition
The condition of the coin, known as its “grade,” plays a critical role in determining its value. Coins in mint or near-mint condition are worth significantly more than those that have been heavily circulated or damaged. Coins that have retained their original weight and integrity are particularly valuable.
3. Rarity
Some Morgan Dollars are rarer than others, particularly those minted in smaller quantities or those with unique mint marks. For example, the 1893-S Morgan Dollar is one of the rarest and most valuable in the series.
4. Market Demand
The demand for Morgan Dollars fluctuates based on market conditions. Coin collectors and investors are often willing to pay a premium for coins that are in high demand, especially rare ones. The market for Morgan Dollars has remained strong over the years, with prices continuing to rise for certain rare coins.
Conclusion
The weight of a Morgan Dollar is a defining characteristic that plays a significant role in determining its authenticity, value, and appeal to collectors. Understanding the exact weight specifications helps ensure that you are dealing with a genuine coin and allows you to assess its value accurately. Whether you’re a long-time collector, an investor, or someone new to the world of numismatics, knowledge of the Morgan Dollar’s weight is an essential part of your journey.
Fun Facts About Morgan Dollar Weight
- The Morgan Dollar was the first silver dollar minted after the Coinage Act of 1873.
- The weight of the Morgan Dollar (26.73 grams) is identical to the Peace Dollar, which succeeded it in 1921.
- The Morgan Dollar has been part of several famous hoards, including the “Great Treasury Hoard” discovered in 1964.
- The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the series, making its weight especially significant to collectors.