Howdy CT, Not a huge Morgan collector (mostly old/error MS/UNC Lincolns), so I'm out of my comfort zone. Have a chance to get this coin for $80USD. Looks to be very well struck, lots of original luster, minimal chatter, should grade well (MS65 or higher?)...my question is what the heck is on the reverse? Will it affect the grading/value? Looks like a die break runs circular throughout the motto (USA) - is that normal for this year/New Orleans strike? Thanks in advance!
The die crack is very common for all years of Morgan Dollars since it takes more than 130 tons of pressure to strike them. I must say that this is a very nice specimen, and I think it should grade higher than MS65. You might consider submitting it for grading to either NGC or PCGS. I've been inactive collecting Morgans for quite a few years. What do you think @Morgandude11 ?
View attachment 1255318 View attachment 1255319 Wow - thanks. I was hoping for MS65+ - that would place the retail value at about $200USD. I'll let you know what it grades out as. My only other Morgan is a 1884-CC that is not anywhere near the condition this one seems to be (MS63).
If you are right, my friend, that puts this in the $350+ range - now that's what I'm talking about! And, a 66+ puts it over $800. I've had the worst luck with TPG lately, so I'm not holding my breath.
Nice die crack . The coin looks nice but the color seems off a little . May Just be the lighting. Die cracks are pretty common but like collecting them that way.
Your coin is much nicer than my MS65s. I started a thread a few years ago about lower grading standards for Morgans...as compared to other coins.
Definitely a die crack. Those were common in those years of Morgan Mintages, as dies were pretty worn, and the force necessary to strike is considerable. As regards grade, that coin is a steal for the price you paid. It would grade in the 65+ to 66 range. It is a clean coin, with great luster. As regards certification, I would definitely send it in to be slabbed, to PCGS or NGC. It is a really choice gem coin!
Thanks so much for your expertise - definitely going to send off for grading. It's from a Carson City coin dealer I have bought tons of coins before in the past, so feel very confident that the coin hasn't been dipped or polished as he would list it accordingly. Four of the "unsearched" wheat cent rolls I bought from him last month had a nice 1927-S, 1911 and a 1922 no-D in VF condition. Any thoughts on which TPG is "favorable" to Morgan grading: PCGS or NGC. I have an account w/NGC, but I'm open to trying any TPG that will grade fairly. Thanks again, all!
Here's a PCGS MS66+ from eBay. Your coin looks nicer (based on your photos)... https://www.ebay.com/itm/1900-O-MOR...958743?hash=item4dbbf63d57:g:oJ0AAOSwUphgCxtq It would be nice to see some clearer photos of your coin.
I bought it tonight, so when I get it in hand, I'll definitely take some more pictures before I send it off for grading. Thanks!
If you already have an account with NGC, you might want to send it to them. It would cost you the necessary membership fee in addition to the submission fees to send it to PCGS. NGC is just as good. Whatever you decide, please let us know the results.
Send it to NGC, as they are fine for Morgans. As regards being over MS 66, that is highly doubtful. It is a really nice coin, but let’s not get way ahead of ourselves.
Good looking coin, especially from that mint. It appears dipped, but most at some point probably were, and it's considered acceptable. Those cracks won't hurt the grade one bit. In fact, personally, I think they're really cool.