History of South America

What is the difference between an 1889 Morgan or liberty silver dollar?

Morgan Silver Dollar

* Designed by George T. Morgan

* Minted from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921

* Obverse: Lady Liberty facing left, with the word "LIBERTY" above and the date below

* Reverse: An eagle with outstretched wings, with the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above and "ONE DOLLAR" below

* Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper

* Weight: 26.73 grams

* Diameter: 38.1 millimeters

Liberty Silver Dollar

* Designed by Christian Gobrecht

* Minted from 1840 to 1904

* Obverse: A profile of Liberty facing left, with the word "LIBERTY" above and the date below

* Reverse: A seated Liberty, with the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above and "ONE DOLLAR" below

* Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper

* Weight: 26.73 grams

* Diameter: 38.1 millimeters

Comparison

The Morgan silver dollar and the Liberty silver dollar are very similar in appearance and composition. The main difference between the two coins is the design on the obverse. The Morgan dollar features a Lady Liberty facing left, while the Liberty dollar features a profile of Liberty facing left. The Morgan dollar was also minted for a longer period of time than the Liberty dollar.