There was an enormous range of coins compared to today, where politics and vending machines have effectively reduced the U.S. to having 4 denominations.
Copper coins:
1 cent (penny)
2 cents - discontinued in 1873, but some probably still in circulation
Silver and nickel coins:
3 cents - silver version discontinued in 1873, nickel version still issued
5 cents - silver version discontinued in 1873, nickel version introduced in 1866
Silver coins:
10 cents
20 cents - discontinued in 1878, some probably still in use
25 cents
50 cents
$1 silver (seated Liberty design) - discontinued in 1873 but used in the West
Gold coins:
$1
$2.50
$3.00
$5.00
$10.00
$20.00
For pictures, mintages, and specific dates www.coinfacts.com is a good site to visit.
All US coins use metal
Only 960 trade dollars were struck in 1881 and all were proof coins. You'd need to have the coin inspected in person by an expert, but trade dollars are among the most widely counterfeited dollar-sized coins.
All coins that the US use. 50, 25, 10, 5, and 1 cent coins.
Assuming the coin is circulated, the 1881 Morgan is a common coin. Most coins have seen heavy use and show a lot of wear. Retail values are $37.00-$41.00.
7-4-11>>> Assuming the coin is circulated and has no mintmark, the 1881 Morgan is a common date. For an accurate assessment of value the coin needs to be seen and graded. Most coins have seen heavy use and show a lot of wear. In general retail values for circulated grade coins are $36.00-$41.00. Values are a market average and only for coins in collectible condition, coins that are bent, corroded, scratched or have been cleaned have far less value if any to a collector or dealer.
The 1881-S Morgan is very common, circulated coins are $17.00-$26.00.
According to the Canadian Counsel they encourage the use of Canadian coin as well as US coins. The use of US coins makes no sense because it holds no value in Canada.
Most US coins dated 1881 have the national motto E-PLURIBUS-UNUM on them, so post a new question with a denomination.
The 1881 Morgan is very common, circulated coins are $17.00-$26.00 depending on how much wear the coin has. Mint State coins are in the $30.00-$50.00 range.
8-17-11>>> Assuming the coin is circulated, the 1881 Morgan is a common coin. Most coins have seen heavy use and show a lot of wear. Retail values are $37.00-$41.00. Values are only for coins in collectible condition, coins that are bent, corroded, scratched, used as jewelry or have been cleaned have far less value if any to a collector or dealer.
Yes, Canadian coins are generally not accepted for use in the United States. While some businesses near the Canadian border may accept them, they are not considered legal tender in the US. It is recommended to exchange Canadian coins for US currency before traveling to the US.
6-26-11>>> The 1881-S Morgan is very common, circulated coins are $36.00-$40.00.