1885-O Morgan Dollar MS-65 PCGS

Product Details

This 1885-O Morgan Dollar, graded MS-65 by PCGS, offers a fascinating look into American coinage from a challenging economic period. Struck at the historic New Orleans Mint, it embodies the industrious spirit of the Gilded Age.

Imagine America in 1885: a nation bustling with industrial growth yet grappling with the lingering effects of an economic downturn known as the Depression of 1882–1885. Amidst this complex landscape, the New Orleans Mint was hard at work, contributing significantly to the country's circulating currency. The Morgan Dollar, designed by George T. Morgan, was a cornerstone of this effort. This particular example, an 1885-O issue, was produced at the New Orleans facility, identifiable by the "O" mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse.

The obverse of this iconic silver dollar presents a profile of Lady Liberty, adorned with a Phrygian cap, a wreath of cotton and wheat, and the word "LIBERTY" on her headband. Surrounding her are thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, and the year "1885." The reverse features a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and preparedness. A wreath encircles the eagle, while the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "ONE DOLLAR," and "IN GOD WE TRUST" complete the design.

While the New Orleans Mint struck a substantial 9,185,000 of these dollars in 1885, a considerable portion was held in Treasury vaults for decades before their eventual release. This storage history means that despite a high mintage, many examples like this one survived in impressive uncirculated grades. Graded MS-65 by PCGS, this coin showcases strong luster and minimal imperfections, allowing collectors to appreciate the details as they were intended. Minted from .900 fine silver, each coin contains 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver, with a total diameter of 38.1 mm and a thickness of 3.1 mm.

The 1885-O Morgan Dollar provides a tangible connection to an era of significant economic change and the unique operational realities of the New Orleans Mint. It's an excellent acquisition for those who appreciate the historical context behind their coins, offering a glimpse into a significant period of American economic and numismatic history, presented in a remarkable state of preservation.