1921 S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1921 S Morgan silver dollar was issued by the U.S. government. The eagle, which is the national emblem, is depicted holding an olive branch and arrows, and the words IN GOD WE TRUST. The inscriptions on the reverse are ‘In God We Trust’ and ‘One Dollar’. In addition to the eagle, the coin’s reverse shows a wreath and an olive branch, as well as the words ‘In God We Trust’ and ‘United States of America’.
In addition to being released in the mint’s normal circulation strikes, 1921 Morgan silver dollars have errors. Errors include a curved clip, a rim defect, and missing or partial numbers. Most likely, these errors are the result of grease or foreign substances in the die. In addition, you may find a blank planchet or missing outer skin. However, these issues are extremely rare.
The striking of the 1921-S Morgan dollar is quite poor, and the coin can be either uncirculated or worn down to “Good” condition. Mintage estimates vary from 10 to 15 million, and the appearance of a 1921-S Morgan dollar may not be affected by the mintmark. The striking of the coin is poor and grading interpretations are looser than those of earlier Morgan dollar dates.
The obverse of the 1921 S Morgan silver dollar features a bold strike and radiating blue and white luster. A natural deep blue tone developed along parts of the rim framing Liberty. This Morgan silver dollar was created for the public in 1921 and has an impressive rarity value. A 1921 S Morgan silver dollar is considered a top collector’s item. This example comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Although the production of the Morgan silver dollar ceased in the early nineteenth century, the government decided to resume its production in 1921. Mintages from the Philadelphia and Denver mints combined totaled over 85 million Morgan silver dollars in the year. The San Francisco issue is fewer common than the Denver and Philadelphia issues. In addition, many higher grade examples have shallow details on the reverse. However, this does not mean that the coins are unremarkable.
The design of the 1921 S Morgan silver dollar was not only unique, but also highly collectible. While the American Numismatic Association’s Farran Zerbe advocated for a new design for the coin to commemorate the end of the Great War, the numismatic community responded in kind. A change in the design of the Morgan dollar was approved by legislation, and the coin was produced.
The design of the Morgan dollar was modeled by a young woman who was also known as Anna Willess Williams. The actress refused fame, and even turned down a marriage proposal. The model ended up committing suicide in 1926. This tragic incident, however, did not stop Morgan from using her design for the coin. She died a year after its issuance. The 1921 S Morgan silver dollar is the rarest in the Morgan dollar series.
The highest-graded example of the 1921-S Morgan sold at Heritage Auction in August 2013 for $117,500. Heritage Auction published pedigree data dating back to the 1970s shows that there are only three known examples of this rare coin. The average retail price of a 1921-S Morgan silver dollar is $150-400 for a ‘non-Zerbe’ business strike.
Although most 1921-S Morgan dollars are worth mostly silver, a few are sought after for collections. These rare coins can be obtained in Gem Mint State (MS-65) condition, which is almost perfect. The 1921-S Morgan silver dollar is rarely found in Gem Mint State, but it is possible to find an MS-65 example with a bold strike and superb aesthetics. This type of coin will take a significant amount of time to find.
In “Fine” condition, a 1921-S Morgan silver dollar displays some signs of circulation. In addition to the usual wear and tear, the design detail has also suffered. Liberty’s hair, for example, has a noticeable lack of detail, and the fine lines that once defined the wreath have been replaced by wide, flat spots. The eagle’s neck and wingtips have also lost detail.
MS65 Morgan dollars are more desirable than lower grades, with their sharp strikes and pleasing original luster. These coins will have light marks and scuffs in prime focal areas, but will still be attractive. However, if you’re looking for a coin that will be a valuable addition to your collection, then the MS65 Morgan silver dollar is a better choice. Its eye appeal and appearance is far better than its MS63 counterpart.