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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1897 Choice BU from the Redfield Collection is a significant piece of American numismatic history, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and the rich heritage of the United States Mint during the late 19th century. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is part of the iconic Morgan Dollar series, which was minted from 1878 to 1904 and then briefly again in 1921. The 1897 Morgan Dollar holds particular significance due to its historical context, notable mintage, and the unique characteristics associated with the Philadelphia Mint, making it a highly desirable piece among collectors, especially those intrigued by the storied Redfield Collection.
Designed by George T. Morgan, an English engraver who later became the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, the Morgan Silver Dollar features intricate and symbolic imagery. The obverse of the coin displays a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty, modeled after Anna Willess Williams, a Philadelphia schoolteacher whose classical profile Morgan believed epitomized American ideals. Liberty is depicted wearing a Phrygian cap inscribed with "LIBERTY" and adorned with cotton and wheat, symbolizing America’s agricultural wealth. The reverse showcases a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows, signifying the nation's readiness for peace and defense. These detailed design elements highlight Morgan’s artistic talent and the high standards of the U.S. Mint during that era.
The Philadelphia Mint, identified by the absence of a mint mark, was the first and foremost mint facility in the United States, responsible for producing some of the most significant coins in American history. In 1897, the Philadelphia Mint produced approximately 2.8 million Morgan Silver Dollars. Despite this relatively modest mintage, coins from the Philadelphia Mint are particularly sought after by collectors due to their consistent strike quality and the historical significance of being minted at the nation’s primary minting facility. The 1897 Morgan Dollar is especially noteworthy because of its inclusion in the Redfield Collection, which adds an additional layer of historical and collectible interest.
The Redfield Collection, amassed by Nevada silver baron LaVere Redfield, is one of the most famous hoards in American numismatic history. Redfield, who was known for his distrust of banks, accumulated a massive collection of silver dollars, which he stored in the basement of his home. Following his death in 1974, the collection was discovered and auctioned off, revealing a treasure trove of high-quality silver dollars. Coins from the Redfield Collection are highly prized by collectors due to their well-preserved condition and the unique history associated with their origin. The 1897 Morgan Dollar Choice BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) from this collection exemplifies the high standards and exceptional quality that define the Redfield hoard.
The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1897 Choice BU Redfield Collection is in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, indicating that the coin has not been circulated and retains its original mint luster and sharp details. The obverse of the coin, featuring Lady Liberty, displays sharp details in the hair and cap, with a vibrant luster that enhances the overall visual appeal. The fields are generally clean, with minimal contact marks, which is characteristic of a coin in Choice BU condition. The reverse, depicting the eagle, also retains strong details, with the feathers and other design elements well-defined. The absence of a mint mark, indicating its origin at the Philadelphia Mint, underscores the coin’s historical and collectible appeal. The combination of sharp details, lustrous surfaces, and minimal marks makes this coin a standout example of the Morgan Dollar series.
The historical context of the 1897 Morgan Dollar adds to its allure. The Morgan Dollar series, named after its designer George T. Morgan, was introduced to replace the Seated Liberty Dollar and to capitalize on the abundant silver supply following the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Nevada. The series is renowned for its beautiful design and historical significance, capturing a transformative period in American economic history. The 1897 Morgan Dollar, produced during a time of significant economic and industrial expansion in the United States, is a testament to this era of growth and prosperity.
In summary, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1897 Choice BU Redfield Collection is a remarkable coin that combines historical significance, artistic beauty, and collectible value. Its modest mintage, well-preserved condition, and the unique qualities associated with the Philadelphia Mint and the Redfield Collection make it a prized addition to any serious collection. This coin not only represents a tangible connection to America’s economic and cultural history but also showcases the enduring allure of the Morgan Dollar series. For numismatists and history enthusiasts, the 1897 Morgan Silver Dollar Choice BU Redfield Collection is a testament to the rich legacy of American coinage and a prized possession that reflects the intricate stories and artistry embedded in each piece.