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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1881-S Choice BU Redfield Collection (B) is a remarkable example of numismatic history, combining exceptional quality with an intriguing provenance. This coin, part of the famous Redfield Collection, represents both the artistry of the Morgan Dollar series and the fascinating story behind one of the most renowned coin hoards in American history.
The Morgan Silver Dollar was minted from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921. Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, an English engraver who joined the U.S. Mint in 1876, the Morgan Dollar was created following the Bland-Allison Act. This act required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver to be minted into dollars, supporting the silver mining industry and increasing the money supply. The Morgan Dollar quickly became a symbol of American prosperity and westward expansion.
The obverse of the Morgan Silver Dollar features a profile portrait of Liberty, modeled after Anna Willess Williams, a Philadelphia schoolteacher. Liberty is depicted wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, symbolizing America’s agricultural heritage. Surrounding Liberty are the words "E PLURIBUS UNUM," the year of issue (1881), and thirteen stars representing the original colonies. This design showcases Morgan's artistic talent and embodies the spirit of the nation during that era.
The reverse of the coin displays a majestic bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, symbolizing peace and readiness for war. Above the eagle is the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," and below it, the denomination "ONE DOLLAR." The reverse also prominently features the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" above the eagle’s head. This detailed engraving and balanced composition make the Morgan Silver Dollar a masterpiece of American coinage.
The 1881-S Morgan Silver Dollar was minted at the San Francisco Mint, renowned for producing coins of exceptional quality. The San Francisco Mint, established in 1854 during the California Gold Rush, played a crucial role in the nation’s coin production, particularly in the western United States. Coins minted at the San Francisco facility are distinguished by the "S" mintmark, located on the reverse beneath the wreath, signifying their origin and high-quality strikes.
The mintage of the 1881-S Morgan Silver Dollar was substantial, with 12,760,000 coins produced. Despite this high mintage, the coins from the San Francisco Mint are known for their superior strikes and luster, making them particularly desirable among collectors. The fact that this coin comes from the Redfield Collection adds a layer of historical intrigue and value.
The Redfield Collection is one of the most famous coin hoards in American history. LaVere Redfield, a reclusive multimillionaire from Nevada, amassed a vast collection of silver dollars over several decades, often purchasing bags of coins directly from banks. After his death in 1974, his collection was discovered hidden in his basement and was subsequently auctioned off in the late 1970s. The coins from the Redfield Collection are highly sought after due to their well-preserved condition and the unique story behind their accumulation.
The condition of the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1881-S Choice BU from the Redfield Collection is exceptional. The designation "Choice BU" (Brilliant Uncirculated) indicates that the coin is in near-perfect condition, with full mint luster and minimal marks or abrasions. Coins from the Redfield Collection are known for their exceptional preservation, as they were stored carefully and remained untouched for many years.
The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1881-S Choice BU Redfield Collection (B) is a tangible link to America's past, embodying the economic and cultural dynamism of the late 19th century. Its superior condition, intricate design, and unique provenance make it a standout piece, offering both aesthetic pleasure and a solid investment. As a product of the San Francisco Mint and a part of the historic Redfield Collection, this coin carries the legacy of the Westward expansion and the California Gold Rush, making it a meaningful and valuable artifact in the world of numismatics.