1896 (S) Morgan Dollar
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$720,000 MS69 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers
Description
The 1896 (S) Morgan Dollar is a dollar produced at the San Francisco Mint as part of the Morgan Dollars 1878-1921 series. With a mintage of 5 million, this is a less common issue — ranked 2nd of 3 mint variants by mintage, with 25% of production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, encircled by stars and the reverse displays an eagle with outstretched wings clutching an olive branch and arrows, surrounded by a wreath. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush and now primarily producing proof and collector coins. Estimated market value ranges from $136 to $14K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #7244.
External References
Error Varieties(11)
1896-S VAM-1
1896-S VAM-1A
1896-S VAM-2
1896-S VAM-4
1896-S VAM-5
1896-S VAM-6
1896-S VAM-7
1896-S VAM-8
1896-S VAM-9
1896-S VAM-10
