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The Certified 1888-S Morgan Silver Dollar, graded MS64 by NGC, is a key piece from the iconic Morgan Dollar series, which holds a special place in American numismatic history. The Morgan Dollar was first minted in 1878, and it was named after its designer, George T. Morgan, a talented British engraver who worked for the U.S. Mint. These silver dollars were struck in large quantities from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921, making them one of the most collected coin series in the United States. The 1888-S issue, produced at the San Francisco Mint, is a particularly desirable date for collectors due to its relatively low mintage and the high quality of coins produced by the mint. In MS64 condition, the 1888-S Morgan Dollar stands out for its exceptional preservation and eye appeal, making it a prized piece for any serious collector.
The obverse of the 1888-S Morgan Silver Dollar features George T. Morgan’s classic depiction of Lady Liberty. Unlike previous representations of Liberty, Morgan’s design portrays her as an American woman, a departure from the Greco-Roman style that had dominated U.S. coinage for much of the 19th century. Liberty is shown in profile, facing left, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with agricultural symbols like wheat and cotton, representing America’s agricultural heritage. Her youthful, serene expression embodies the nation's ideals of freedom and progress. Surrounding Liberty’s portrait are 13 stars, symbolizing the original 13 colonies, along with the words "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and the date "1888" at the bottom. The design is crisp and finely detailed, particularly in high-grade examples like this MS64 coin, where the luster and surface quality bring out the intricacies of the engraving. The obverse is a masterpiece of American coinage, representing the craftsmanship and vision of George T. Morgan and the era in which it was created.
The reverse of the 1888-S Morgan Dollar is equally striking, featuring a majestic image of a bald eagle with its wings outstretched. The eagle holds an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other, symbolizing the nation’s desire for peace but its readiness for war. Above the eagle is the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," while the denomination "ONE DOLLAR" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircle the design. The eagle’s detailed feathers and sharp talons are rendered with exceptional clarity, especially in higher-grade examples like this MS64 coin, where the coin’s original mint luster is well-preserved. Below the eagle, just above the "DOLLAR" inscription, is the small "S" mintmark, indicating that this coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which was known for producing high-quality coins during the Morgan Dollar series’ production run.
The 1888-S Morgan Silver Dollar was minted at the San Francisco Mint, which has long been associated with producing coins of superior quality. The San Francisco Mint was established during the California Gold Rush in 1854, and by the late 19th century, it was a crucial facility for striking silver coins using silver mined from the rich deposits in the western United States. The mintmark "S" on the reverse of the 1888 Morgan Dollar is highly sought after by collectors because San Francisco mintages are often smaller and struck with greater precision than those from other mints. The total mintage for the 1888-S Morgan Dollar was just 657,000 coins, making it one of the scarcer issues in the series. This relatively low mintage, combined with the quality of the strike and the appeal of the San Francisco Mint coins, makes the 1888-S Morgan Dollar a favorite among collectors who specialize in Morgan Dollars.
In terms of grade, the 1888-S Morgan Dollar in MS64 condition represents a near-perfect example of this classic coin. The MS64 grade from NGC indicates that the coin is in mint state, showing no signs of wear, but may have a few minor contact marks or light abrasions that are common for coins of this era. However, these imperfections are typically only visible under magnification and do not detract from the overall eye appeal of the coin. In fact, Morgan Dollars in MS64 often exhibit full mint luster, sharp strikes, and excellent detail, particularly in key areas like Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers. Coins in this grade are highly prized by collectors who seek a balance between quality and affordability, as they offer strong visual appeal without the premium associated with MS65 or higher-grade coins.
The Morgan Silver Dollar is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a total weight of 26.73 grams and a silver content of 0.7734 troy ounces. This silver composition gives the coin intrinsic value in addition to its numismatic appeal. While the coin’s silver content is important to investors, its real value lies in its historical significance and its place within one of the most beloved U.S. coin series. The Morgan Dollar was not only a circulating currency but also a symbol of the country’s wealth and growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Collectors of Morgan Dollars are drawn to their beauty, history, and the variety of dates and mintmarks that offer endless possibilities for building a complete collection.
The Certified 1888-S Morgan Silver Dollar MS64 NGC is a standout example of the artistry and craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint during a time of rapid expansion and industrialization. Its limited mintage, combined with its high grade, makes it a desirable piece for both collectors and investors. The coin’s stunning design, with its iconic portrayal of Liberty and the American eagle, continues to captivate those who appreciate the history and beauty of American coinage. As a well-preserved example of one of the scarcer dates in the Morgan Dollar series, this coin represents both a tangible piece of American history and a valuable addition to any numismatic collection.