Morgan Silver Dollar Errors
Morgan silver dollars (1878-1921) are among the most collected US coins. Their large size and high relief make errors easier to spot. Several significant varieties and errors exist across the series.
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Scan My CoinKnown Errors
1888-O Hot Lips
A dramatic doubled die showing extreme doubling on the obverse, particularly on Liberty's lips, giving it the nickname 'Hot Lips.'
How to check: Look at Liberty's lips and profile for extreme doubling that makes it appear she has two sets of lips.
$300 - $2,000+VAM Varieties
VAM (Van Allen-Mallis) cataloged die varieties including repunched dates, doubled dies, and die cracks.
How to check: Compare your Morgan dollar to VAM reference photos. Check the date, mint mark, stars, and eagle's tail feathers for die varieties.
$10 - $5,000+ depending on varietyClashed Dies
Ghost impressions from the opposing die visible in the fields of the coin.
How to check: Look for faint outlines of Liberty's face on the reverse or eagle features on the obverse in the smooth field areas.
$10 - $100Off-Center Strike
Rare on Morgan dollars due to their large collar. Partially missing design with blank planchet showing.
How to check: Visible displacement of the design with blank metal on one side.
$500 - $5,000+Quick Checks
- Check Liberty's lips on 1888-O dollars for the Hot Lips doubled die
- Examine the date numerals for repunching or overdates
- Look in the smooth fields for ghost impressions from die clashes
- Check the tail feathers on the reverse — 7 vs 8 feathers matter on 1878 issues
- All Morgan dollars contain 90% silver (26.73g)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Morgan dollar errors are most valuable?
The 1888-O Hot Lips ($300-$2,000+), 1878 7/8 tail feathers ($50-$500), and various VAM doubled die varieties top the list. Any off-center Morgan dollar is extremely valuable.
What are VAM varieties?
VAM stands for Van Allen-Mallis, the researchers who cataloged hundreds of Morgan and Peace dollar die varieties. Each variety is numbered (e.g., VAM-7) and covers die errors, repunched dates, and clashed dies.
How do I check my Morgan dollar for errors?
Start with the date and mint mark for obvious repunching, then check Liberty's profile for doubling. Upload high-resolution photos to ErrorHunt for comprehensive AI analysis.
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