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- Product ID: 47104
The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1880-S MS64PL PCGS is a splendid specimen from the venerated series of Morgan Dollars, struck at the San Francisco Mint. This particular coin is highly esteemed not just for its significant historical value but also for its exceptional quality, denoted by its MS64PL grading from the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). The 'PL' in its grade indicates that this coin possesses a proof-like finish, a rare attribute for circulation coins that enhances its allure among collectors and numismatists alike.
George T. Morgan, an English engraver, designed the Morgan Silver Dollar, which was first minted in 1878. His design features an obverse with a portrait of Lady Liberty, modeled after Anna Willess Williams, a teacher who was said to embody the American ideals of freedom and dignity. This iconic image is surrounded by the inscriptions "E PLURIBUS UNUM," the date of minting, and thirteen stars representing the original U.S. colonies. The reverse of the coin showcases an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching both an olive branch and arrows. This symbolizes the nation's preference for peace but readiness for war, framed by a wreath, with the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR." Morgan's designs are revered for their artistry and have become symbols of a significant era in American coinage.
The 1880-S Morgan Dollar emanates from the San Francisco Mint, known for producing coins of superior quality, evident in the sharp details and significant luster typical of its outputs. The 'S' mint mark, located below the wreath on the reverse, confirms its San Francisco origins. During 1880, the San Francisco Mint was part of a broader effort to integrate vast amounts of silver from the Comstock Lode into the nation's currency system, following the Bland-Allison Act which mandated the U.S. Treasury to purchase and coin silver to stabilize the economy and bolster the silver mining industry. This particular mintage is celebrated for its role in this pivotal economic strategy and remains a key artifact from this booming era of American silver coinage.
The MS64PL grade assigned to this 1880-S Morgan Dollar by PCGS signifies that the coin is in near gem condition with strong eye appeal. The 'MS64' grading indicates that while the coin shows minimal signs of wear, it maintains a majority of its original mint luster and presents only minor surface imperfections. The 'PL' or proof-like designation refers to its mirror-like fields that are highly reflective, akin to those seen on proof coins which are typically struck for collectors and not for circulation. Such characteristics make this coin particularly desirable, as they highlight the intricate details of Morgan's design, enhancing the visual appeal and making it a standout piece in any collection.
The certification by PCGS is crucial in verifying the authenticity and the condition of the coin, adding an extra layer of trust and value for collectors. PCGS is renowned for its strict grading standards, ensuring that each coin graded under its watch meets high levels of collector expectations. This certification not only helps in preserving the integrity of the coin but also in solidifying its market value and collectibility. For collectors, owning a coin with such certification means investing in a piece of history that is acknowledged for its quality and preservation.
In conclusion, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1880-S MS64PL PCGS represents an exceptional piece of American numismatic history. Its superb proof-like quality, coupled with its rich historical context and the high standards of the San Francisco Mint, make it a highly prized possession for any serious collector. This coin is not merely a medium of transaction but a fragment of American heritage that embodies the artistry, economic strategies, and technological advancements of its time, making it a timeless treasure within the realm of U.S. coin collecting.