Morgan dollars are one of the most popular and well-known silver dollars in the world. They were minted from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921. Due to their popularity, there are a number of counterfeit Morgan dollars on the market. Here are some tips on how to tell if your Morgan dollar is real:
1. Weight
Morgan dollars should weigh 26.73 grams. If your coin is significantly heavier or lighter than this, it is likely a fake.
2. Diameter
Morgan dollars should have a diameter of 38.1 millimeters. If your coin is significantly larger or smaller than this, it is likely a fake.
3. Thickness
Morgan dollars should be 2.41 millimeters thick. If your coin is significantly thicker or thinner than this, it is likely a fake.
4. Reeding
The edge of a Morgan dollar should have 150 reeds. If your coin has a different number of reeds, it is likely a fake.
5. Mint mark
Morgan dollars were minted in three different locations: Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco. The mint mark for each location is located on the reverse of the coin, below the date. If the mint mark is missing or is in the wrong location, it is likely a fake.
6. Color
Morgan dollars should have a bright, silvery-white color. If your coin is yellow or has a different color, it is likely a fake.
7. Feel
Morgan dollars should feel smooth and well-struck. If your coin feels rough or has any other irregularities, it is likely a fake.
If you are still unsure whether or not your Morgan dollar is real, you can take it to a professional coin dealer or numismatist for authentication.