Numismatic

1896-O Morgan Dollar AU

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The 1896 Morgan silver dollar minted in New Orleans offers a fascinating glimpse into late nineteenth-century American currency. Struck with 0.7734 troy ounces of silver, this coin represents a design family that served as a staple of daily commerce in the United States for nearly eighty years. This specific piece survives in Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the fine details of its historic engraving. On the obverse, a profile of Liberty appears wearing a Phrygian cap, a traditional symbol of freedom. The word LIBERTY is inscribed upon her band, while the Latin motto E PLURIBUS UNUM archs above her. Thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, flank the portrait, with the 1896 date of issue positioned at the bottom. The reverse features a heraldic bald eagle with its wings spread, clutching both an olive branch of peace and a bundle of arrows. Above the eagle, the motto IN GOD WE TRUST is written in gothic script. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination ONE DOLLAR encircle the central design. Just below the wreath, the O mint mark identifies this dollar as a product of the historic New Orleans Mint.