Numismatic

1885-O Morgan Dollar MS-65 NGC

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The 1885 Morgan silver dollar stands as a remarkable survivor from an era when silver coinage was a staple of daily commerce. Struck at the historic New Orleans Mint, this particular coin carries the 'O' mint mark, signaling its southern origin. For nearly eight decades, these heavy silver pieces circulated widely throughout the United States, serving as a trusted medium of exchange in the pockets and cash drawers of everyday Americans. On the obverse, the profile of Lady Liberty is depicted wearing a Phrygian cap, a traditional symbol of freedom. Her hair is adorned with a band inscribed with the word 'Liberty'. Surrounding her portrait are thirteen stars, representing the original colonies that formed the nation, along with the Latin motto 'E Pluribus Unum' and the 1885 year of issue. Turning to the reverse, a bald eagle is shown with its wings spread. The eagle is framed by the inscriptions 'United States of America' and the denomination 'One Dollar'. Above the eagle, the national motto 'In God We Trust' is clearly visible. Minted with a silver purity of 0.900, this coin contains 0.77344 troy ounces of precious metal. Having achieved a high certified grade of Mint State 65 (MS-65), this specimen offers an incredibly sharp, well-preserved look at late nineteenth-century American coinage.