The 1883-CC Morgan Dollar is a highly sought-after coin that has intrigued collectors for decades. Minted at the Carson City Mint, only 1,204,000 of these coins were produced, making them relatively rare today. Most of them were stored by the U.S. Treasury, but they resurfaced in the 1970s and 1980s during the famous General Services Administration (GSA) public sales. This guide covers the history, market data, key varieties, and value of the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar, providing essential information for anyone looking to collect or invest in this iconic coin.
The History of the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar
In 1883, the Carson City Mint produced 1,204,000 Morgan Dollars, but most were held in storage by the U.S. Treasury for many years. During the 1970s and ’80s, the General Services Administration (GSA) held a public sale, selling off the remaining coins. A total of 755,518 1883-CC Morgan Dollars were released through the GSA Hoard. In the 1980 sale, these coins were sold at $65 each, and they sold out in just 10 days, highlighting the coin’s popularity and demand. Today, collectors can still find these coins, but their value has increased significantly due to their rarity and historical significance.
Market Data for the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar
Over the years, the market for 1883-CC Morgan Dollars has evolved. In the early years, these coins were sold at much lower prices. For example, in a 1951 advertisement, Morgan dollars were listed for just $7.50 each in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, with circulated versions priced at $2.50. Fast forward to the 1970s and ’80s, when these coins saw an increase in demand, and prices began to climb. A pristine MS65 example of the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar sold for $37.50 in 1974.
The highest-grade examples of the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar are those graded MS68, and these coins are extremely rare. As of 2024, only seven MS68 coins have been certified by PCGS, with just two MS68 examples certified by NGC. These top-tier coins can command premium prices at auctions. For example, a PCGS MS67+ CAC coin sold for as much as $9,400 at a Stack’s Bowers auction in 2012. More recently, a PCGS MS67 example was sold for around $4,080 in 2024.
Key Varieties of the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar
Collectors should also be aware of some notable varieties of the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar. One of the most famous is the VAM-4 variety, which has a die scratch within the first “C” of “CC” and a doubled date on the obverse. Another important variety is the VAM-5B, which features unique characteristics and has been attributed to several high-grade coins. These varieties can add significant value to a coin, especially if they are in excellent condition.
Coin Specifications
The 1883-CC Morgan Dollar is made from .900 silver and .100 copper, with a total weight of 26.73 grams. The diameter of the coin is 38.10 mm, and its edge is reeded. The obverse and reverse designs were created by George T. Morgan, who is the namesake of the Morgan Dollar series. On the obverse, the coin features a portrait of Liberty, while the reverse showcases a heraldic eagle.
| Coin Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1883 |
| Denomination | One Dollar (USD) |
| Mintmark | CC (Carson City) |
| Mintage | 1,204,000 |
| Alloy | .900 Silver, .100 Copper |
| Weight | 26.73 g |
| Diameter | 38.10 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Designer | George T. Morgan |
| Reverse Designer | George T. Morgan |
| Quality | Business Strike |
Conclusion
The 1883-CC Morgan Dollar is a key coin in the Morgan Dollar series and remains a favorite among collectors. Its limited mintage and historical importance, combined with its stunning design, make it a valuable addition to any collection. While most of the coins were sold in the GSA Hoard during the 1970s and ’80s, high-grade examples, especially those with rare varieties, continue to fetch impressive prices at auctions. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a beginner, the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar offers both historical significance and investment potential.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar valuable?
The 1883-CC Morgan Dollar is valuable due to its limited mintage, historical significance, and high demand among collectors. Coins in excellent condition, especially those with rare varieties like VAM-4, can fetch high prices at auctions.
How many 1883-CC Morgan Dollars were made?
A total of 1,204,000 1883-CC Morgan Dollars were minted at the Carson City Mint. Most of them were stored by the U.S. Treasury and later released in the 1970s and ’80s during the GSA public sales.
What is the highest grade for the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar?
The highest certified grade for the 1883-CC Morgan Dollar is MS68, which is extremely rare. Only a few coins have been graded at this level, making them highly sought after by collectors.