Numismatic

1896-O Morgan Dollar BU

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The 1896 Morgan Silver Dollar stands as a remarkable survivor from an era when silver coinage was a cornerstone of daily commerce in the United States. Struck at the historic New Orleans Mint, this particular coin is preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, meaning it retains the lustrous details it possessed when it first left the coining press over a century ago. Containing 0.7734 troy ounces of silver with a purity of 0.900, these heavy silver coins served as everyday currency for nearly eighty years, passing through the hands of generations of Americans. On the obverse, the profile of Liberty is depicted wearing a traditional Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom. This side of the coin also features the word "Liberty" nestled in her hair, the national motto "E Pluribus Unum," thirteen stars representing the original colonies, and the 1896 date of issue. The design showcases the intricate artistry that defined late nineteenth-century American coinage. The reverse of the coin features a bald eagle with its wings spread, clutching an olive branch of peace and arrows of strength in its talons. Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions "United States of America," the denomination "One Dollar," and the phrase "In God We Trust." Just below the wreath on the reverse, the "O" mint mark indicates its origin from the New Orleans Mint, adding a layer of geographic history to this classic silver piece.