Carson City Morgan Dollars

Carson City Morgan Dollars: The Silver Legends of the American West

The Carson City Morgan Dollar isn't just a coin—it's a tangible relic of the Wild West, minted from silver extracted from the legendary Comstock Lode With the distinctive “CC” mintmark, these coins are cherished by collectors for their rarity, historical significance, and enduring allure

The Carson City Mint: A Brief History

Established in 1870, the Carson City Mint was strategically located near Nevada's Comstock Lode to facilitate the minting of silver coin. It operated until 1893, producing coins that bore the “CC” mintmar. Today, the mint building serves as the Nevada State Museum, preserving the legacy of these iconic coins.

Why Carson City Morgan Dollars Are So Coveted

Several factors contribute to the desirability of Carson City Morgan Dollas:

  • Limited Mintage: The Carson City Mint produced coins for only 13 years, resulting in lower mintages compared to other mins.
  • Historical Significance: Minted during the silver boom, these coins are direct links to the American frontier ea.
    GSA Hoard: In the 1970s, the U.S. Treasury discovered and sold a cache of uncirculated Carson City Morgan Dollars, known as the GSA Hoard, further fueling collector interest.

Generated image

Fun Facts About Carson City Morgan Dollars

  • Comstock Lode Silver: The silver used in these coins was sourced from the Comstock Lode, one of the richest silver mines in American history.
    GSA Packaging: Coins from the GSA Hoard were sold in distinctive black plastic cases, which have become collectible in their own right.
  • Modern Commemorative: In 2021, the U.S. Mint released Morgan Dollar commemoratives featuring a “CC” privy mark, honoring the Carson City Mint's legacy.

 

Generated image

Obverse (Front) – “Liberty in Her Crowned Glory”

The obverse features the iconic Lady Liberty designed by George T. Morgan (hence the name Morgan Dollar). She’s portrayed as a strong and serene woman wearing a Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom, adorned with agricultural elements like wheat and cotton—representing American prosperity and unity.

 Obverse Details:

  • Inscriptions:
    • “E PLURIBUS UNUM” – Latin for "Out of many, one"
    • Date – For example: 1879
  • Stars – 13 stars surrounding Liberty represent the original 13 colonies.
  • Designer – While not signed on the obverse, this was designed by George T. Morgan.

 

Reverse (Back) – “The Heraldic Eagle”

The reverse displays a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch (symbol of peace) and arrows (symbol of readiness for war). The eagle is surrounded by a laurel wreath—a classical symbol of victory.

Reverse Details:

  • Inscriptions:
    • “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
    • “ONE DOLLAR”
    • “In God We Trust” – Positioned between the eagle’s wings
  • Mint Mark:
    • The “CC” mintmark is located just below the wreath and above the “DO” in DOLLAR, identifying it as struck at the Carson City Mint.

Carson City Morgan Dollars are more than just coins; they are artifacts of a pivotal era in American history. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a curious enthusiast, these silver dollars offer a tangible connection to the legacy of the America West.