The 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar holds a special place in numismatic history as one of the most intriguing and sought-after coins in the Morgan Dollar series. This particular coin is often referred to as the “last” Carson City silver dollar, though its story is more complicated than just its mintage date. The coin’s unique characteristics and history make it a prized possession for collectors, particularly those with a passion for the Carson City Mint and the legacy of silver coinage in the United States.
The Carson City Mint Legacy
The final years of the Carson City Mint were marked by dwindling coin production, particularly for silver dollars. By the time the 1900 minting year rolled around, there was a significant demand for silver coinage due to silver mining in Nevada, and New Orleans became the primary mint producing silver dollars. However, the story behind the 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar is rooted in an accident that left its mark on the history of Carson City coinage.
The 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar
The 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar is a result of an error that occurred at the New Orleans Mint. During the minting process, leftover dies from the Carson City Mint were used, and a few of these dies from the closed Carson City mint were overstruck with new dies that included the O mintmark (for New Orleans). This led to a distinctive and highly unusual “overmintmark” error, where the CC mintmark of the Carson City Mint is visible beneath the O mintmark.
Rarity and Value
Because the 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar is a coin produced with a mix of old and new dies, it is considered a rare and valuable error coin. The number of surviving examples of the 1900-O Over CC is limited, and its unique status as a transitional piece between the Carson City and New Orleans mints makes it especially desirable.
Conclusion
The 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar stands as a testament to the Carson City Mint’s lasting legacy in U.S. coinage. Although the mint closed in 1893, the unique overmintmark error that resulted in the production of this coin makes it a lasting reminder of that storied mint’s place in history. As one of the last silver dollars to carry the CC mintmark, the 1900-O Over CC is an essential piece in the collections of serious Morgan Dollar enthusiasts and numismatists.
FAQs
What is the 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar?
The 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar is a rare coin that features an overmintmark error, where the Carson City (CC) mintmark is struck beneath the New Orleans (O) mintmark.
Why is the 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar so valuable?
Due to its rarity, historical significance, and the overmintmark error, the 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar is highly sought after by collectors. Coins with this error are scarce, and the coin’s association with the legendary Carson City Mint makes it a valuable piece.
How can I tell if my 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar is authentic?
To confirm the authenticity of a 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar, it’s essential to examine the mintmarks carefully. The CC mintmark should be visible beneath the O mintmark.