How would you grade this 1889 Morgan?...

Discussion in 'What's it Worth' started by AtlantaMan, Apr 15, 2026 at 1:22 PM.

  1. AtlantaMan

    AtlantaMan Active Member

    Hi,

    Here is my 1889 Morgan. A common date, but I am struggling with the grade. I have had estimates ranging from AU-55 to MS-64 from multiple AI services as well as from the DIY PCGS Photograde Online. It does have a very nice cartwheel to it, but I don't think I can post videos to this site. It's probably somewhere in that range, but if it is MS-64, I think I will get it slabbed.

    How would you grade it and why?

    Thanks!

    eBay #37 - 1889 Morgan - Obverse - for Coin Talk.jpg eBay #37 - 1889 Morgan - Reverse - for Coin Talk.jpg
     
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  3. dwhiz

    dwhiz Collector Supporter

    AU details looks wiped.
     
    David Betts likes this.
  4. Collecting Nut

    Collecting Nut Borderline Hoarder

    Even if it is a MS-64 it’s still less than a $100 coin so it’s not worth spending the money to slab it. I don’t think it would grade that high myself but I am looking at photos.
     
    fretboard and capthank like this.
  5. ldhair

    ldhair Clean Supporter

    The surfaces have an odd look but I don't know why. Parts of the coin look to have some nice luster. Are we seeing a reflection from something on the obverse?
     
  6. AtlantaMan

    AtlantaMan Active Member

    @ldhair - Hi Larry, this coin has a really nice luster and cartwheel effect
     
  7. Collecting Nut

    Collecting Nut Borderline Hoarder

    That reflection looks like an image of the person taking the photo. A little off in the first photo but centered on the reverse. :)
     
  8. fretboard

    fretboard Defender of Old Coinage!

    Reverse looks okay but that obverse looks like a wipe or discoloration across Liberty's face, my guess is a low AU with details. :cigar:
     
  9. ddddd

    ddddd Member

    It's probably the photo, but like others, I'm seeing altered/unusual surfaces. If the surfaces are ok, then it might be a slider (either 58 or 62/63 depending on the graders that day).

    @Collecting Nut is right about these selling for about $100 in MS 64 holders. I don't think it goes higher, so the grading fee would not be worth it as you would not recoup the $30+ spent at PCGS or NGC. Now if you have a larger order going out to Anacs or ICG where the fees are $10-$15, then it could be worthwhile as a learning experience.
     

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