Silver Dollar coins have been minted ever since 1793, spanning across eight different mints. As of now, only half of these mints (Denver, San Francisco, Philadelphia and West Point) are still active.

As with any collectible, there are several factors that affect the value. Age is a primary contributor to value, although even the value of old silver dollar coins is variable based on circulation amount, condition of the coin in question, and location.

The value of old silver dollar coins relates as much to the coin as to the time it represents. The 1878 silver dollar minted at Carson City, is if found in great condition worth approximately $30 000 dollars in 2009. The value of old silver dollar coins from this year have increased steadily over the last few years, increasing from $8000 in 1995.

The value of the coin reflects the quality of silver used in the time, approximately 90% silver, and also reflects on the time. 1878 was a time of great evolution, particularly in America, with cities seeing a surge in their populations and technological advances were made that would revolutionise the American way of life. As a result, the value of old silver dollar coins from this time is of a higher value than those from years later.

Another case where the value of old silver dollar coins have raised is for the 1895 Morgan silver dollar minted in Philadelphia. The value of old silver dollar coins from this time are not reliant on the history of the era but because of the small number of coins minted in that year. (There have been subsequent reissues) but the original series was only circulated with 12000 coins the majority of which are believed to have been melted down long since. There are surviving proof coins; however there were only 880 proofs minted in 1895 and it is this low number of remaining examples that make the coin so special.

Obviously the value of old silver dollar coins are dependent on not only condition of the individual coin but also based upon the face value of the set as a whole. A completed set will yield a higher potential value and a single coin.

As with everything though, value is a relative term, because something is as valuable as the owner makes it. A coin minted two years ago could hold more value than an 1893 silver dollar coin because of the sentimental attachments the coin carries with it.