In an astonishing turn of events, a perfectly uncirculated 1889-CC Morgan Dollar was recently discovered in an old sock drawer during a household clean-out.
What appeared to be just another coin among personal effects turned out to be one of the rarest and most valuable Morgan Dollars in existence — later authenticated and auctioned for a whopping $180,000.
Why the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar Is So Valuable
The 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar is widely regarded as one of the rarest coins in the Morgan series, especially in uncirculated condition. Minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada, only 350,000 coins were struck that year, and many were later melted down.
Few were saved in pristine form, which significantly boosts their market value today.
Key Details of the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1889 |
| Mint Mark | CC (Carson City) |
| Mintage | 350,000 |
| Metal Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Condition | Uncirculated (Mint State) |
| Estimated Value | $180,000 (recent auction sale) |
The Discovery Story
The coin was uncovered during a routine spring cleaning when a family member stumbled upon a small pouch tucked inside an old sock drawer. Inside were several old coins, but one in particular — the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar — stood out due to its luster and immaculate preservation.
After testing and evaluation by experts, the coin was graded as Mint State, confirming its uncirculated status.
Once verified, it was listed for auction, quickly gaining attention from collectors and investors. Bidding escalated rapidly, eventually closing at $180,000.
What Makes This Coin So Unique?
Several factors contribute to the extreme value of the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar:
- Low Mintage: With just 350,000 minted, it’s one of the lowest production runs in the Morgan series.
- High Demand: It’s a key-date coin that serious collectors need to complete their collections.
- Uncirculated Condition: Most surviving examples show wear; finding one in mint state is exceedingly rare.
- Carson City Rarity: Coins minted in Carson City carry special appeal due to their historical context and limited runs.
How to Know If You Have One
If you suspect you might have a valuable Morgan Dollar, especially one from 1889, look for these identifiers:
- Mint Mark “CC”: Located below the eagle on the reverse side.
- High Relief Features: Strong details on Liberty’s face and eagle feathers.
- Weight: Around 26.73 grams (authentic silver content).
- Luster: Uncirculated coins maintain a radiant shine and no signs of circulation wear.
The discovery of an uncirculated 1889-CC Morgan Dollar in a sock drawer highlights just how easily history can go unnoticed. With only a limited number ever produced — and fewer surviving in mint condition — this coin’s $180,000 sale proves that even the most unassuming corners of your home could hold extraordinary value.
It’s time to check those drawers, boxes, and jars—you might be holding onto a hidden treasure without even knowing it.
FAQs
Where is the mint mark on an 1889-CC Morgan Dollar?
The mint mark “CC” can be found on the reverse side below the eagle’s tail feathers.
Can a circulated 1889-CC Morgan still be valuable?
Yes. Even in lower grades, this coin can be worth tens of thousands depending on condition.
How do I get a rare coin appraised?
Contact a professional coin grading service or a reputable numismatic dealer for authentication and valuation.