1. Condition: The condition of the coin is crucial in determining its value. A well-preserved and uncirculated 1899 silver dollar will generally be more valuable than a heavily worn or damaged one.
2. Mint Mark: The mint mark on the coin indicates where it was minted. The 1899 silver dollar was minted in two locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark) and San Francisco ("S" mint mark). The San Francisco mint produced a lower mintage of 1899 silver dollars, making them rarer and potentially more valuable.
3. Rarity: The mintage number plays a significant role in determining rarity. The Philadelphia Mint produced 12,357,000 Morgan dollars in 1899, while the San Francisco Mint struck 3,557,000 pieces. The lower mintage of the San Francisco coins makes them rarer and more valuable.
4. Numismatic Value: Beyond the silver content, some 1899 silver dollars may have numismatic value. For instance, certain die varieties or error coins can command higher prices among coin collectors.
Given all of these factors, the value of an 1899 US silver dollar can range from a few dollars for a well-worn common date coin to several hundred or even thousands of dollars for a rare and well-preserved specimen.
However, it's always recommended to consult with a professional numismatist or coin dealer for an accurate appraisal of the coin's value based on its specific characteristics and current market conditions.