If you are a coin collector or simply interested in rare coins, you might have heard of the 1891-S Morgan Dollar. This coin is famous for its rarity and value, and many collectors search for it to add to their collections. However, since there are many counterfeit coins out there, it’s important to know how to identify an authentic 1891-S Morgan Dollar. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to spot a genuine 1891-S Morgan Dollar and avoid being tricked by a fake one.
What is the 1891-S Morgan Dollar?
The 1891-S Morgan Dollar is a silver coin minted by the United States Mint in 1891. The “S” in the name represents the mintmark, which means the coin was made at the San Francisco Mint. This coin is part of the Morgan Dollar series, which is one of the most famous and widely collected coin series in American history.
The 1891-S Morgan Dollar is known for its distinctive design, which features a profile of Lady Liberty on the front and an eagle on the back. The coin is made of 90% silver, making it valuable not just because of its rarity but also because of its precious metal content.
Key Features of the 1891-S Morgan Dollar
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Profile of Lady Liberty |
| Reverse Design | American Eagle with “United States of America” |
| Mint Year | 1891 |
| Mintmark | “S” for San Francisco |
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
How to Spot a Fake 1891-S Morgan Dollar
Since the 1891-S Morgan Dollar is a valuable coin, there are many counterfeit versions in circulation. Here are some simple ways to spot an authentic one:
1. Check the Mintmark
One of the first things to look for on an 1891-S Morgan Dollar is the mintmark. It should be located on the reverse side of the coin, just below the eagle’s tail feathers. The “S” mintmark should be clear and distinct. If the mintmark looks smudged or unclear, it might be a fake.
2. Examine the Weight
An authentic 1891-S Morgan Dollar weighs about 26.73 grams. If the coin feels too light or too heavy, it could be a counterfeit. You can use a digital scale to measure the coin’s weight and compare it to the standard weight.
3. Inspect the Design Details
Take a close look at the details of the coin’s design. Genuine Morgan Dollars have sharp, clear features, especially in the facial details of Lady Liberty and the eagle on the reverse. If the coin looks blurry or lacks detail, it could be a fake.
4. Use a Magnet
Morgan Dollars, including the 1891-S, are made of 90% silver. Silver is not magnetic, so if a magnet sticks to the coin, it is likely made from a different material, such as steel or iron, and is not genuine.
5. Look for the Edge
Another way to check for authenticity is to look at the edge of the coin. The 1891-S Morgan Dollar has a reeded edge, meaning it has small ridges all around it. If the edge is smooth or looks unusual, the coin may be fake.
6. Check the Sound
When dropped, authentic silver coins make a unique, high-pitched “ping” sound. If the coin makes a dull sound, it might not be made of silver, indicating it’s a counterfeit.
How to Verify the Coin’s Authenticity
If you want to be extra sure that your 1891-S Morgan Dollar is real, you can take it to a professional for authentication. Coin dealers and numismatists (coin experts) have the knowledge and tools to determine whether a coin is authentic. Some of the methods they use include:
- X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Testing: This test analyzes the metal composition of the coin to confirm if it’s made of the right materials.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Light Inspection: Some genuine coins have special markings that only appear under UV light.
- Authentication Certification: You can send your coin to a professional grading company for certification. If the coin is authentic, it will be graded and given a certification number.
Conclusion
The 1891-S Morgan Dollar is a highly prized coin due to its rarity, historical significance, and silver content. If you own one of these coins, it’s important to know how to identify its authenticity. By checking the mintmark, weight, design details, edge, and sound, you can avoid falling for fake coins. If you’re still unsure, consider taking the coin to a professional for a thorough inspection. Whether you’re a collector or simply interested in rare coins, understanding how to identify an authentic 1891-S Morgan Dollar will help you make informed decisions and protect your investment.
FAQ’s
1. How can I tell if my 1891-S Morgan Dollar is real?
Look for a clear “S” mintmark, check the weight (26.73 grams), inspect the design for sharp details, and use a magnet to see if it sticks.
2. What is the weight of an authentic 1891-S Morgan Dollar?
An authentic 1891-S Morgan Dollar weighs 26.73 grams.
3. What should I do if I suspect my 1891-S Morgan Dollar is fake?
You can take it to a professional coin dealer or numismatist for authentication or use X-ray fluorescence testing to check the metal composition.
4. Why is the mintmark important in identifying an authentic 1891-S Morgan Dollar?
The mintmark is a key feature of the coin and indicates where it was made. A clear and distinct “S” mintmark confirms the coin was minted in San Francisco.