The mass of a United States silver dollar, when expressed in avoirdupois ounces, provides a standardized measure for assessing its physical properties. For example, a Morgan or Peace silver dollar typically has a mass of approximately 0.8594 troy ounces, which converts to roughly 0.933 actual (avoirdupois) ounces. This figure represents the overall quantity of metal contained within the coin.
This measurement is significant for several reasons. It offers a verifiable data point for authentication, allowing numismatists and collectors to differentiate genuine coins from counterfeits. Furthermore, understanding the metallic content, derived from this measurement, is crucial for calculating the intrinsic value of the coin based on current silver prices. Historically, this weight was an essential aspect of its functionality as legal tender, ensuring consistent value and facilitating commerce.