Imagine opening an old cookie tin in the attic and finding a small fortune inside. That’s exactly what happened recently when a rare Morgan Silver Dollar, tucked away for decades, was discovered and sold for over $150,000 at auction.
This remarkable coin is now making headlines in the numismatic world for both its rarity and pristine condition.
Here’s everything you need to know about this valuable discovery, what made it so special, and how to spot a valuable Morgan Dollar of your own.
What Is the Morgan Dollar?
The Morgan Dollar is one of the most iconic American silver coins, minted from 1878 to 1904, and once more in 1921.
Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, it features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a bald eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse. These coins were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams each.
Details of the $150,000 Morgan Dollar Discovery
The coin found in the cookie tin turned out to be a 1893-S Morgan Dollar, which is widely known among collectors as one of the rarest and most desirable Morgan Dollars in existence.
With only 100,000 minted and far fewer surviving in good condition, it’s a key date for any serious collector.
Why It Fetched Over $150,000
- Date & Mint: 1893-S (San Francisco Mint)
- Rarity: Less than 100 known in MS (Mint State) condition
- Condition: This coin was graded MS-65, which is extraordinarily rare for this date
- Auction Result: Sold for $150,625 in a recent high-profile auction
Key Facts About the $150,000 Morgan Dollar
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar |
| Mint | San Francisco (“S” Mintmark) |
| Mintage | 100,000 |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Grade | MS-65 |
| Sale Price | $150,625 |
| Discovery Location | Inside a vintage cookie tin in an attic |
Why the 1893-S Morgan Dollar Is So Valuable
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is considered the rarest regular-issue Morgan in high-grade condition. Most examples were either heavily circulated or melted during silver recall periods. Finding one in near-perfect mint state is extremely rare, hence the high auction price.
Key Identification Tips:
- Look for the “S” mintmark on the reverse, just above the “D” and “O” in “DOLLAR”
- The date should be clearly 1893, with strong strike details
- Inspect condition: no heavy wear, sharp edges, original luster = higher value
How to Check if You Have a Valuable Morgan Dollar
Even if you don’t have the rare 1893-S, other Morgan Dollars can still be worth thousands. Look for:
- Low mintage years (e.g., 1889-CC, 1895, 1894)
- Mintmarks like CC (Carson City), S (San Francisco), or O (New Orleans)
- Uncirculated or proof-like condition
- Original storage (mint bags, coin rolls, tins, etc.)
Always get your coins graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC for accurate valuation.
The discovery of a $150,000 Morgan Dollar in a cookie tin serves as a thrilling reminder that treasures can be hidden in plain sight.
Whether tucked in a forgotten tin or buried in a coin album, coins like the 1893-S Morgan Dollar offer incredible potential for collectors and casual finders alike.
Always inspect old coins carefully—because the next six-figure rarity might be sitting in your own home.
FAQs
How do I know if my Morgan Dollar is valuable?
Check the date, mintmark, and condition. Coins with low mintage and no wear are often worth more.
Where is the mintmark located on a Morgan Dollar?
On the reverse, just above the letters “D” and “O” in “DOLLAR.”
Can Morgan Dollars still be found in circulation?
Very rarely. Most valuable ones are discovered in old coin collections, estates, or hidden storage like this cookie tin.