1885-S Morgan $1 PCGS MS64

Introduction

The 1885-S Morgan Silver Dollar graded PCGS MS64 is a choice Mint State example from the historic San Francisco Mint. With a mintage of 1,497,000 coins, the 1885-S was produced in significantly smaller numbers than many Morgan Dollars of the era. Its MS64 grade from Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) recognizes an uncirculated coin with strong overall preservation and eye appeal.

History

The Morgan Silver Dollar was introduced in 1878 following passage of the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver for coinage. Designed by George T. Morgan, the new silver dollar would remain in production through 1904 before returning for a final year in 1921.

The San Francisco Mint struck 1,497,000 Morgan Dollars in 1885, a relatively modest production compared with the more than 17 million pieces struck at Philadelphia that year. Many 1885-S Morgan Dollars entered circulation, while others acquired contact marks during storage in bags. As a result, the issue becomes increasingly scarce in higher Mint State grades, adding to the appeal of well-preserved examples.

Design

The obverse features George T. Morgan's left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with agricultural elements. The inscription E PLURIBUS UNUM appears above, thirteen stars flank the portrait, and the date 1885 appears below.

The reverse depicts an American bald eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons. A wreath surrounds the eagle, while UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, IN GOD WE TRUST, and ONE DOLLAR complete the design. The S mintmark beneath the wreath identifies the coin as a product of the San Francisco Mint.