1890-CC Tailbar Morgan Dollar: Collector Value and Identification
The 1890-CC Tailbar Morgan Dollar is worth anywhere from $600 in worn condition to over $15,000 for high-grade specimens. This Carson City rarity is a favorite among collectors because of its distinctive “die gouge” error that makes it stand out from standard issues. If you’ve found one in a family collection, you may be holding a significant treasure.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) to Very Good (VG-8) | $550 – $750 |
| Fine (F-12) to Very Fine (VF-25) | $800 – $1,200 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $2,500 – $3,500 |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-62) | $5,000 – $8,500 |
| High Mint State (MS-64+) | $15,000+ |
Identifying the Famous 1890-CC Tailbar Variety
Identifying this specific coin requires a sharp eye or a free coin identifier app to confirm you have the “Tailbar” variety rather than the standard 1890-CC. The name comes from a unique die gouge—a mistake made during the manufacturing process—that created a vertical line running from the eagle’s tail feathers down to the arrow feathers on the reverse side.
It looks as if a bar of silver is sticking out from the bird’s tail, hence the nickname “Tailbar.” Because this was a mistake on a specific coin die, only a limited number of these coins were ever produced. If you aren’t sure if your coin has the mark, tools like CoinKnow can help you zoom in on high-resolution images to verify the mint error.
Remember, the “CC” mint mark under the wreath signifies it was minted at the legendary Carson City Mint in Nevada. Collectors pay a massive premium for Carson City coins, but the Tailbar variety adds an extra layer of history and scarcity that drives prices even higher.
Current Market Prices for the 1890-CC Tailbar
The market for rare silver dollars is currently very strong, and the 1890-CC Tailbar remains one of the most liquid coins in the hobby. Even in heavily circulated grades, where the design is worn and smooth, this coin commands hundreds of dollars. For those looking for the most accurate and up-to-date 1890 Morgan Dollar MS prices, it is vital to track auction results rather than just looking at old price guides.
For an everyday person who finds one of these in a drawer, the jump in value from “Well-Used” to “Brand New” is staggering. A coin that has been handled slightly (AU grade) might be worth $3,000, but if it has never touched human hands and retains its original “mint luster,” it can easily double or triple in value.
| Circulated Grade | Retail Price Range |
|---|---|
| Very Good – 8 | $675 |
| Fine – 12 | $850 |
| Very Fine – 20 | $1,050 |
| Extremely Fine – 40 | $1,600 |
Why the Carson City Mint Mark Matters
The Carson City Mint was established primarily to handle the massive amounts of silver coming from the Comstock Lode. Coins with the “CC” mark are often associated with the “Wild West” era of American history. For an 1890-CC Morgan Dollar, the mintage was relatively low compared to the Philadelphia or New Orleans mints. Only 2,309,000 Morgan Dollars were struck in Carson City in 1890.
While that sounds like a lot, many were melted down or lost over the last 130 years. The Tailbar variety represents only a tiny fraction of that mintage. Because of this rarity, the 1890 CC silver dollar worth is significantly higher than its counterparts from other mints.
When checking your coin, use your phone camera or the CoinKnow app to get a clear look at the area between the eagle’s tail and the arrows. If you see that distinct bar, you aren’t just looking at a standard CC dollar; you are looking at a VAM variety (VAM-4) that is a “Top 100” Morgan Dollar variety.
The Impact of Condition on Value
In the world of coin collecting, condition is everything. A single scratch or an attempt to “clean” the coin can destroy its market value. Never clean your coins! If you find an 1890-CC Tailbar that looks dirty or tarnished, leave it alone. Collectors prefer “original skin”—the natural patina that forms over a century.
Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC use a 70-point scale to determine a coin’s state. A grade of MS-60 means the coin is “Mint State” but has many bag marks or scuffs. A grade of MS-65 means it is nearly perfect. For the Tailbar variety, an MS-65 specimen is an elite-level rarity that can sell for $25,000 or more at prestige auctions.
| Uncirculated Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS-61 | $5,400 |
| MS-62 | $7,250 |
| MS-63 | $11,500 |
| MS-64 | $18,000 |
Tips for Selling Your Rare Morgan Dollar
If you have confirmed your coin is an 1890-CC Tailbar, your next step is to protect it. Place it in a PVC-free plastic coin flip or a hard plastic holder. Your primary goal should be to prevent any further surface damage. Using an app like CoinKnow can help you document the coin’s appearance before you take it to a dealer or send it off for grading.
When selling, avoid “We Buy Gold” shops or local pawn shops. These businesses usually pay silver melt value or a small premium. A rare coin like the Tailbar should be sold through a reputable numismatic auction house or a specialized rare coin dealer. Because the value can exceed $5,000 easily, getting the coin professionally graded (slabbed) is usually worth the $50-$100 investment, as it guarantees the coin’s authenticity and grade to potential buyers.
Final Thoughts on the 1890-CC Tailbar
The 1890-CC Tailbar Morgan Dollar is more than just a piece of silver; it is a historical artifact with a unique manufacturing “hiccup” that makes it special. Whether you are a casual hobbyist or someone who just inherited a collection, knowing how to spot that little bar on the eagle’s tail can be the difference between a $100 coin and a $10,000 payday.
Keep an eye out for clear, sharp details on Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s breast feathers, as these are the first places to wear down. High-quality survivor coins from the Carson City mint are the “blue chips” of the coin world, and the Tailbar remains the crown jewel for many Morgan enthusiasts.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 1890-CC is a real Tailbar?
A: Look at the back of the coin. Between the eagle’s tail feathers and the bundle of arrows, there should be a thick, vertical line that looks like a bar. If that area is smooth, it is a regular 1890-CC Morgan Dollar.
Q: Is a cleaned 1890-CC Tailbar still valuable?
A: Yes, it is still very valuable because of its rarity, but cleaning will likely reduce its price by 30% to 50% compared to an “original” coin. Collectors value the natural aging process of silver.
Q: Why is the Carson City (CC) mint mark so important?
A: The Carson City Mint produced fewer coins than other locations, and its association with the American Old West makes its coins highly desirable. The “CC” mark is effectively a “premium” brand in the coin market.
Q: Where is the mint mark on an 1890 Morgan Dollar?
A: The mint mark is located on the reverse side (tails), directly above the “D” and “O” in the word “DOLLAR.” If there is no letter there, it was made in Philadelphia.
Q: Should I get my 1890-CC Tailbar appraised?
A: If the coin is in good condition, professional grading by PCGS or NGC is highly recommended. It provides a “guarantee” of authenticity which is necessary when selling a coin worth thousands of dollars.
