What is the value of an 1897 US Morgan silver dollar?

Answer 1

Look on the back of the coin above the DO in DOLLAR to see if there's a small mint mark letter. There may be an O, S, or blank.

1897 is not a rare date for most grades and mint marks. Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 05/2009:

No mint mark:

Very worn condition - $16

Moderately worn - $18

Slightly worn - $20

Almost no wear - $23

A nice uncirculated one might sell for $35 or more. S mint mark:

Very worn condition - $17

Moderately worn - $20

Slightly worn - $22

Almost no wear - $30

Uncirculated - $55+

O mint mark:

Very worn condition - $17

Moderately worn - $18

Slightly worn - $30

Almost no wear - $150

Uncirculated - $600+

Nearly ALL U.S. coins bear the motto "E Pluribus Unum" ("From many, one") so this is not a distinguishing characteristic of a coin. The denomination, date, mint mark, and condition are the most helpful characteristics to start with.

Answer 2

Assuming the coin is circulated and has no mintmark, the 1897 Morgan dollar is a common date of the series. Most coins show heavy wear. For an accurate assessment of value the coin needs to be seen and graded. In general retail values for low grade coins are $32.00-$33.00, better grade are $34.00-$35.00 and coins showing almost no wear run from $36.00-$39.00. Typical Mint State coins are $49.00-$53.00. Values are a market average and only for coins in collectible condition, coins that are bent, corroded, scratched, used as jewelery or have been cleaned have far less value if any to a collector or dealer.