New Orleans Mint Morgan Silver Dollars

Morgan Silver Dollars, arguably the most sought-after vintage U.S. silver coins, remain in high demand due to their rich history. These coins, minted from 1878 to 1921 using ore from Nevada’s Comstock Lode, were the largest silver coins produced by the U.S. Government for general circulation, each nearly an ounce of 90% silver. Found in the pockets of Wild West cowboys, the vaults of Prohibition gangsters, and perhaps your grandma’s cookie jar, their allure is undeniable.

The New Orleans Mint, the only U.S. Mint controlled by three different governments—the United States, the State of Louisiana, and the Confederate States of America—produced millions of these iconic "Silver Cartwheels." However, in 1904, the last series of Morgan Silver Dollars for general circulation was struck there, with all coin production ceasing five years later. It's estimated that only 15% of all Morgan dollars ever minted still exist today.

The Morgan Dollar is the most popular and beloved coin series in American history, each with its own story. The New Orleans Mint's Morgan Dollars, struck every year from 1879 until their retirement in 1904, are especially prized by collectors. Established in 1835 along with the Charlotte and Dahlonega Mints, the New Orleans Mint initially struck gold and silver coins but was closed during the Civil War. Unlike the permanently closed Charlotte and Dahlonega Mints, New Orleans resumed operations in 1879 due to the Bland-Allison Act, which required the Treasury to purchase and coin vast amounts of silver.

The New Orleans Mint focused on quantity over quality to meet high demand, resulting in few O Mint coins with exceptional eye appeal. Collectors are encouraged to seek out the best specimens available to add to their collections.