Rare 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar: Imagine strolling into a quiet antique shop and walking out with a coin worth nearly $2 million. That’s exactly what happened when a rare 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar was discovered in a rural Pennsylvania antique store an incredible find that later sold at auction for a staggering $2.4 million.
This astonishing story highlights the hidden value that can still be found in the most unlikely places and serves as a thrilling reminder to always keep an eye out for rare collectibles.
A Hidden Treasure in Plain Sight
The historic coin was found by a hobbyist collector who was casually browsing through an old antique shop. Tucked away in a dusty glass case, alongside vintage trinkets and postcards, was an unassuming silver coin marked “1889-CC.” To the average person, it might look like just another old coin but for seasoned collectors, that mint mark and year spell rarity.
Intrigued by its age and design, the buyer purchased the coin for only a few hundred dollars. But after a closer inspection and professional grading, it became clear that this wasn’t just a cool piece of history it was a numismatic jackpot.
Why the 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar Is So Valuable
The Morgan Silver Dollar is a beloved American coin series minted between 1878 and 1904, and again in 1921. Designed by George T. Morgan, the coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a majestic eagle on the reverse. While millions of Morgan Dollars were struck across several U.S. Mint locations, not all are created equal.
The 1889-CC Morgan Dollar, minted in Carson City, Nevada, is one of the rarest and most desirable coins in the entire series. Only 350,000 were produced, and many were melted down in the early 20th century as part of silver reclamation efforts. Surviving coins are hard to come by, especially in Mint State (MS) condition.
The coin discovered in Pennsylvania was later certified by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) as MS-65, placing it in an elite tier of quality almost unheard of for this key date and mint.
Record-Breaking Auction: $2.8 Million Sale
Once authenticated and graded, the coin was submitted to a top-tier numismatic auction. News of the rare 1889-CC MS-65 coin attracted global attention. Collectors from around the world competed in a bidding war for a chance to own one of the finest examples known to exist.
When the auction concluded, the final bid reached $2.8 million one of the highest prices ever paid for a Morgan Silver Dollar.
Why Stories Like This Matter to Collectors
The tale of this unexpected windfall isn’t just about money it’s a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of coin collecting. While most vintage coins have modest value, specific dates, mint marks, and pristine condition can dramatically increase worth.
Opportunities like this one can still be found today at estate sales, flea markets, garage sales, and antique stores. Even forgotten family coin collections might hold a hidden gem.
Tips for Identifying Valuable Morgan Dollars
If you own or inherit Morgan Silver Dollars, here are a few quick tips to assess potential value:
- Check the Mint Mark: “CC” for Carson City is especially valuable.
- Look at the Year: Key years like 1889 can be worth significantly more.
- Evaluate Condition: Coins with little wear, original luster, and no damage are more valuable.
- Get It Graded: For accuracy and value verification, submit coins to professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.
Final Thoughts
The discovery of a $2.8 million Morgan Silver Dollar in a small-town shop proves that incredible finds can still happen. For collectors, treasure hunters, or even casual hobbyists, this is an inspiring reminder that history and value often go hand in hand.
So the next time you browse through an antique shop or sort through old coins in your attic, take a second look you might just uncover the next million-dollar coin.
FAQs: Rare 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar Found in Antique Shop
1. What makes the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar so rare?
Only 350,000 were minted in Carson City, and many were melted down. Surviving high-grade examples are extremely scarce.
2. Where was the rare Morgan Dollar discovered?
It was found in a rural Pennsylvania antique store, hidden among miscellaneous collectibles.
3. How much did the coin sell for at auction?
After being graded MS-65 by PCGS, the coin sold for an astounding $1.8 million.
4. How can I check if my Morgan Dollar is valuable?
Look at the coin’s year, mint mark (especially “CC”), and overall condition. Consider professional grading for an accurate valuation.
5. Are valuable coins still found today?
Yes many rare coins are still being discovered in antique shops, estate sales, and inherited collections across the U.S.