Numismatic

1885-S Morgan Dollar VF

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This 1885 silver dollar represents a classic era of United States coinage, minted at the San Francisco facility. Struck with a composition containing 0.7734 troy ounces of silver, the coin carries the 'S' mint mark on its reverse, indicating its West Coast origin. This specimen survives in Very Fine condition, showing the honest wear of a coin that likely circulated during the late nineteenth century. The obverse design features the profile of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap. Her hair band is inscribed with the word 'LIBERTY'. Encircling her portrait are thirteen stars, the year 1885, and the Latin motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. These elements combine to create one of the most recognizable faces in American numismatic history. On the reverse, a bald eagle is depicted holding both an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing a desire for peace but a readiness for defense. The inscriptions surrounding the eagle include 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and the denomination 'ONE DOLLAR'. The national motto, 'IN GOD WE TRUST', is positioned directly above the eagle's head, completing a design that captures the spirit of its time.