The mass of a United States silver dollar is a key characteristic used for identification and authentication. These coins, historically composed of 90% silver and 10% copper (in the case of the Morgan and Peace dollars), or another alloy combination, possess a specific weight to ensure their intrinsic value and deter counterfeiting. For instance, a standard Morgan silver dollar should register approximately 26.73 grams.
Knowing the standard mass is crucial for numismatists, precious metal dealers, and collectors. Deviations from the expected weight can indicate wear, damage, or, more seriously, the presence of a counterfeit. Historically, the precise measurement of these coins provided a guarantee of their silver content, facilitating trade and commerce. The intrinsic metal value, supported by accurate weight, made these coins a reliable form of currency.