Numismatic

1885-O Morgan Dollar MS-64 PCGS

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The year 1885 marked a period of industrial expansion following an economic downturn, a time when the New Orleans Mint was busy striking silver dollars. This particular coin, a Morgan Dollar, is composed of 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper, containing 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver. Measuring 38.1 millimeters in diameter and 3.1 millimeters in thickness, it represents a classic era of American silver coinage. Designed by George T. Morgan, the obverse features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. She wears a Phrygian cap decorated with wheat and cotton, symbolizing agricultural abundance, with the word LIBERTY inscribed upon her band. The reverse displays a bald eagle with wings spread wide, holding arrows and an olive branch. The traditional motto E Pluribus Unum is also featured on the reverse of the coin. This specimen has been graded Mint State 64 (MS-64), indicating a Choice Uncirculated condition. Coins from the New Orleans Mint during this specific period sometimes exhibit a slightly weaker strike, making well-preserved examples especially interesting to study. With a total mintage surpassing 9 million pieces, this silver dollar offers a fascinating glimpse into the post-recession manufacturing efforts of the Southern facility.