A Lucky Find Turns to Millions
A rare Morgan Silver Dollar, discovered in a dusty box at a small antique shop in Ohio, sold for an incredible $2.8 million at an auction in Dallas on June 20, 2025. The coin, minted in 1893, was a rare “proof” version from the San Francisco Mint, known as the 1893-S. Only a few dozen are believed to exist, making it a holy grail for collectors. The lucky finder, a retiree browsing for trinkets, had no idea they’d stumbled on a fortune. Now, people are flocking to antique stores and flea markets, hoping to uncover their own treasure.
Why This Coin Is a Big Deal
The Morgan Silver Dollar, named after its designer George T. Morgan, was minted from 1878 to 1921. The 1893-S is special because only 100,000 were made, and most were lost or melted down. This particular coin was in near-perfect condition, graded PF-66 by experts, meaning it’s almost flawless. Coin dealer Sarah Jenkins explains, “Proof coins were made for collectors, not circulation, so finding one in an antique shop is like hitting the jackpot.” Its rarity and condition drove the $2.8 million price tag, stunning the coin world.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1893 |
| Mint | San Francisco (S mint mark) |
| Type | Proof coin |
| Auction Price | $2.8 million |
| Condition | PF-66 (near perfect) |
Collectors Are Buzzing
The sale has set the coin-collecting world on fire. Morgan Dollars are already popular for their silver content and iconic design, showing Lady Liberty on one side and an eagle on the other. But the 1893-S is a legend due to its low mintage. “This coin is a piece of history,” says auctioneer Mike Torres. “It’s like finding a rare painting in your attic.” Social media, especially X, is exploding with posts of people sharing their own Morgan Dollars, with some joking they’re checking every antique shop in town.
Could You Find a Treasure?
Amazingly, rare coins like this can still turn up in unexpected places—antique shops, estate sales, or even your grandparents’ old collection. To spot a valuable Morgan Dollar, check the date and mint mark (a small letter near the eagle’s tail). The 1893-S is the one to look for, but others, like the 1889-CC or 1895, can also be worth thousands. Don’t clean any coins you find; dirt or scratches can ruin their value. Take them to a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC. Jenkins advises, “If you see an old silver dollar, don’t pass it by. It could be worth millions.”
Beware of Fakes
Not every Morgan Dollar is a goldmine. Most are worth $20 to $100 unless they’re rare and in great shape. Scammers are already trying to pass off common coins as rare ones, sometimes altering dates or mint marks. “The market is hot, but it’s also tricky,” Torres warns. “Always get a coin authenticated by a professional.” Before you get your hopes up, do your research to avoid being fooled. Checking X, you’ll see warnings about fake 1893-S coins popping up online.
The Hunt Is On
This $2.8 million find has sparked a nationwide treasure hunt, with people rummaging through antique stores and old coin jars. The Morgan Silver Dollar proves that hidden gems can be anywhere, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, checking old coins could lead to a life-changing payday. So, next time you’re at a flea market or digging through a relative’s keepsakes, keep an eye out—you might just find a silver dollar worth more than a mansion.
