The 1895-O Morgan silver dollar was struck at the New Orleans Mint with a mintage of 450,000, making it a scarce and highly prized coin, especially in higher grades.
Known for its poor production quality, most examples lack fine details and exhibit dull luster. Despite these issues, the 1895-O is one of the most valuable Morgan dollars in uncirculated grades.
The 1895-O Morgan silver dollar was minted during a period of declining demand for silver dollars. The New Orleans Mint, which produced these coins, was known for its subpar quality control, often producing coins with weak strikes and dull finishes.
Despite this, the 1895-O Morgan dollar is one of the rarest and most expensive coins in the Morgan series, particularly in Mint State, due to its low mintage and poor production quality.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Size | 38.1 millimeters |
| Denomination | 1 USD |
| Gross Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Actual Silver Weight | 0.7734 troy ounces of silver |
| Fineness/Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Diameter | 38.1 millimeters |
| Thickness | 2.4 millimeters |
| Specific Gravity | ~10.34 |
| Numismatic Price Range | $30 - $575000 |
The obverse of the 1895-O Morgan dollar features a left-facing bust of Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with cotton and wheat. The reverse displays an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace.
The "O" mintmark, indicating the New Orleans Mint, is located beneath the eagle. The inscriptions include "E Pluribus Unum" on the obverse and "United States of America" and "In God We Trust" on the reverse.
The 1895-O Morgan silver dollar is highly regarded by collectors due to its low mintage and poor production quality, making well-struck examples exceedingly rare. While circulated grades are more common, uncirculated coins are difficult to find and command high premiums, especially those with sharp details. The rarity of the coin in higher grades has made it one of the most valuable Morgan dollars minted at the New Orleans Mint.
The value of the 1895-O Morgan silver dollar ranges significantly depending on condition. Circulated coins in Very Fine condition are valued at around $30, while Extremely Fine examples can fetch up to $450. In About Uncirculated grades, values soar to $2,000.
Uncirculated Mint State coins are far more valuable, with MS-61 examples valued at $16,000 and MS-65 coins reaching $225,000. The auction record for this coin stands at $575,000 for a top-graded MS-67 example.
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