A simple silver coin from 1895 might be worth more than most cars on the road today. You could be holding on to one without even knowing it. This rare $1 piece is called the 1895 Morgan dollar, and depending on its condition, it has sold for as much as $269,500 at auction. Let us break down why this coin is so valuable—and how you can find out if you might have one.
Why is the 1895 morgan dollar so rare?
This is not just any old coin. The 1895 Morgan dollar is often called the “King of the Morgan Dollars,” and for a good reason.
Here is why collectors go crazy for it:
- Although records show that 12,000 coins were made for circulation in 1895, none of them were ever released.
- Experts believe they were all melted down before leaving the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia.
- Only 880 proof coins were officially produced and released to the public.
Because of this, genuine 1895 Morgan dollars are one of the hardest coins to find in the world of coin collecting. Their mix of mystery and rarity has driven their value through the roof.
What is the 1895 morgan dollar made of?
If you are wondering what makes this coin physically special, it comes down to its metal mix.
- Each coin is made of 90% silver and 10% copper.
- This was a standard composition for U.S. silver dollars at the time.
- Some fake versions have been found with even higher silver content—like 95%—which is a red flag.
So, if you have a coin that says “1895” on it and it looks silver, it might be worth taking a closer look.
How much is an 1895 morgan dollar worth?
The value depends heavily on the coin’s condition. In the coin world, better-preserved pieces bring in more money.
Here are some real-world examples:
- One coin graded PR66 CAM (a near-perfect proof) sold for $120,000.
- Another, graded PR67+ DCAM (an even higher grade with a deeper mirror-like finish), went for $269,500.
That is more than what many people pay for a house down payment or a college degree.
How to tell if your 1895 dollar is real or fake
With prices this high, there are bound to be fakes out there. So if you think you have one, do not assume it is genuine until an expert checks it.
Here is what you should do:
- Do not clean it—cleaning coins can actually lower their value.
- Take it to a trusted coin specialist or a certified numismatist.
- They can confirm whether it is authentic and what grade it is in.
It is always best to go through proper channels when dealing with rare collectibles like this.
Where you might find an 1895 morgan dollar
Believe it or not, people do find valuable coins in ordinary places.
You might want to check:
- Old coin collections passed down through your family
- Attics, basements, or closets where old belongings are stored
- Estate sales, garage sales, or even antique shops
You never know where one of these hidden treasures could be sitting, quietly collecting dust.
