The worth of a 1934-dated silver dollar is influenced by several factors, including its mint mark, condition, and silver content. Coins minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco during that year are all considered Morgan or Peace dollars, depending on the specific design and later in the year minting. These pieces contain approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of silver, contributing significantly to their intrinsic worth. As a result, the spot price of silver at any given time has a direct impact on their market value, even for coins in circulated condition. An example would be a well-worn coin from Philadelphia, whose floor price is dictated primarily by its silver content.
The appeal of these silver dollars stems from their historical significance and precious metal content. They represent a tangible piece of American history, circulating during the Great Depression era. Moreover, the inherent value of the silver they contain provides a hedge against economic uncertainty, making them attractive to both collectors and investors. The historical context of the mint year can further amplify the coins’ desirability, especially when considering the economic factors that influenced the mintage numbers and their subsequent preservation.