Here is a link to the 1896 proof, it shows all of the die markers to recognise which die pairing applies. You have the coin in hand, your photos are too small to see any die markers http://vamworld.com/wiki/File:1896pproofobv.jpg
In all your searching? You don't say? That's almost incredible! It must be a proof, what else could it be?
100% certain it is not a proof. Looks nothing like a Morgan proof. It isn’t even an uncirculated Morgan.
They only struck 762 proofs, the chances of you coming across an unslabbed one is extremely unlikely.
Lol you guys are always good for a laugh. It has said die markers, but that won't change your opinions we all know that
From what I found on my own I have come to the conclusion it is just a business strike. The chances were low but I did look