The 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar encapsulated by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) as Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) and adorned with the prestigious G.T. Morgan Label is a cherished numismatic treasure. Here’s a detailed overview of this iconic coin:
Date and Mint Mark:
- The coin was minted in 1885, representing a significant year in American history. It bears no mint mark, indicating that it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the primary mint facility of the United States at that time.
Design:
- Designed by George T. Morgan, the obverse of the coin features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap and crowned with wheat and cotton, symbolizing American agricultural abundance and industrial growth. The inscriptions “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “1885” adorn the periphery.
- On the reverse side, an eagle with outstretched wings clutches arrows and an olive branch, representing America’s readiness for defense and desire for peace. Above the eagle, the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed, while “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” encircle it.
NGC Grading and G.T. Morgan Label:
- Certified by NGC as Brilliant Uncirculated (BU), this coin exhibits sharp details and original mint luster, indicating that it has never been circulated in commerce. NGC’s rigorous grading standards ensure the coin’s authenticity and quality, providing assurance to collectors and investors.
- The G.T. Morgan Label, affixed to the NGC holder, pays tribute to George T. Morgan, the talented engraver responsible for designing the Morgan Silver Dollar. Coins bearing this label are highly sought after by collectors for their association with Morgan’s artistic legacy and contribution to numismatics.
Numismatic Value:
- The 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar holds significant numismatic value due to its historical significance and scarcity in BU condition. Coins in BU grade, such as this NGC-certified example, are particularly desirable to collectors for their pristine state and sharp details.
- As a key date in the Morgan Silver Dollar series, the 1885 issue is eagerly sought after by collectors seeking to complete sets or acquire coins from specific years of interest.
Investment Potential:
- Beyond its numismatic appeal, the 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar represents a tangible asset with intrinsic and historical value. Its status as a BU example, certified by a reputable grading authority like NGC, enhances its investment potential.
- Over time, coins of exceptional quality, such as this NGC-certified BU 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar with the G.T. Morgan Label, have the potential to appreciate in value, making them attractive additions to investment portfolios.
Overall Significance:
- The 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar stands as a testament to American craftsmanship and ingenuity, reflecting the nation’s transition from the post-Civil War era to the height of the Gilded Age. Its iconic design and association with George T. Morgan make it a prized possession among numismatists worldwide.
Owning an 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar NGC BU with G.T. Morgan Label allows enthusiasts to appreciate not only its beauty and historical significance but also the legacy of its designer and the rich numismatic heritage of the United States.
