1921 U.S.A. Silver Morgan Dollar – Final Year of the Original Series
The 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar marks the final year of production for one of America’s most iconic coin series. First introduced in 1878, the Morgan Dollar represents the strength of the post-Civil War U.S. economy and the vast silver mining boom of the American West. The 1921 issue is unique as it was minted after a 17-year hiatus and features subtle design differences due to the re-engraving of the original dies.
Obverse:
Features the classic left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton – symbols of American agriculture. The design, created by George T. Morgan, is surrounded by the inscription:
"E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of many, one)
along with 13 stars representing the original colonies and the date 1921 at the bottom.
Reverse:
Depicts a majestic bald eagle with outstretched wings clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing readiness for war and a desire for peace. The eagle is framed by a wreath and the inscriptions:
"UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "IN GOD WE TRUST", and "ONE DOLLAR".
Specifications:
Country: United States of America
Denomination: One Dollar
Metal: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Weight: 26.73 grams
Diameter: 38.1 mm
Edge: Reeded
Designer: George T. Morgan
Minted: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S)
Mintage: Over 86 million total across all mints
The 1921 Morgan Dollar was struck with newly recreated dies, resulting in slightly shallower details compared to earlier issues. It is the only Morgan Dollar struck in the 1920s and also the final Morgan before the Peace Dollar replaced it later that year. This makes the 1921 Morgan a critical piece for any U.S. silver dollar collection, valued for both its historical significance and classic American artistry.