1898 Morgan ..... Proof or PL???

Hello, I know it's unlikely, but I bought this coin a couple years ago at melt value. It looks like a proof but I've never seen a Morgan proof face to face. So, my question to you is, do you guys think this is a proof? The obverse has seen better days, but the fields on the reverse are stunning. It does not appear altered in any way. This camera is kinda low quality but do your best and let me know what you think. Thanks

 

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Looks pl to me. You need to measure its reflective properties I don't know the distances needed to qualify off the top of my head.

 

No way that's a proof, imho. Bet it was once a dmpl coin, though.

 

It reflects perfectly at over one foot distance.

 

What makes you think the coin is a Proof? I don't see anything that would make me think it is a Proof. The photos are not the best (we could see more if the photos were taken with the coin out of the Air-Tite, if the surfaces of the coin were in focus, if the coin was better illuminated, etc.) but it appears to me the rims are not flat, (I cannot see the edge but I suspect the corners of the edge are not square), the coin does not have the detail of a Proof, etc.

 

I agree that better pictures will be needed... but from what I can see, it's definitely not a proof... the denticles just don't look like those on a proof morgan.

 

The cover is off of the airtite. I will try to get better photos this evening. The edge is not perfectly square. According to my short research, not all proofs have exceptional strikes or outstanding detail. The immense reflectivity is why I want to know if it's a proof. I am going to send it to NGC in a few weeks along with my 89cc and one of my 91cc spitting eagles. It's worth a shot just to kill my curiosity.

 

My mistake. The first two photos looked like they were taken through the Air-Tite.

 

Your coin is most likely a DMPL if it reflects a foot away. I'll be curious as to what the graders give it. Please keep us posted.

 

It won't get DMPL because of the obverse.

 

The obverse is still as reflective as the rev. It just has more marks.

 

Well, the PCGS definition for the DMPL designation is clearly reflective from 6+" away. So hold a ruler parallel to the coin, and see if you can read the 6" marker clearly. If so, it's got a shot at DMPL. I think the overall condition of the obverse will hold it back, though, just my opinion... of course the photo's aren't great either so it's hard to say for sure.