Description
1883 American Silver Morgan Dollar S CC BU:
Design:
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Obverse: Features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, designed by George T. Morgan. She wears a Phrygian cap encircled by “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, with the date “1883” below and 13 stars around, representing the original colonies.
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Reverse: Displays an eagle with wings spread, clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and readiness for defense. Above the eagle is “IN GOD WE TRUST”, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” encircling it. The “CC” mint mark below the wreath indicates it was minted in Carson City, Nevada.
Specifications:
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Mint: Carson City Mint, denoted by the “CC” mint mark.
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Mintage: The 1883-CC Morgan Dollar had a relatively low mintage of 1,204,000, making it more desirable among collectors compared to higher mintage years.
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Material: 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams, with a diameter of 38.1 mm.
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Condition: BU (Brilliant Uncirculated), indicating the coin is in uncirculated condition, showing no signs of wear from circulation, and retaining its original mint luster. A BU coin is typically comparable to an MS60 or higher grade on the Sheldon scale, with minimal contact marks or hairlines.
Grading Details:
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BU: While BU is not a specific numerical grade, it generally implies a coin in Mint State condition, often falling in the MS60-MS65 range. The coin would exhibit full mint luster and sharp details, with only minor imperfections due to storage or handling, not from circulation.
Historical Context:
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The 1883-CC Morgan Dollar is part of the Morgan Dollar series, which was minted from 1878 to 1904, with a one-year revival in 1921. The Carson City Mint issues are particularly prized for their historical significance, as they reflect the Wild West era and the silver mining boom. Many of these coins were part of the GSA (General Services Administration) hoard, discovered in U.S. Treasury vaults and sold to the public in the 1970s and 1980s.
Packaging:
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A BU coin might come in various forms of packaging, such as a protective flip, capsule, or slab, especially if certified by a grading service like NGC or PCGS. If slabbed, the holder would provide protection, authentication, and details on the grade and mint mark.
Value and Collectibility:
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The 1883-CC Morgan Dollar in BU condition is highly collectible due to its uncirculated state, the historical significance of the Carson City Mint, and its relatively low mintage. Collectors often seek these coins to complete sets or for their investment potential, as high-grade Carson City Morgans are always in demand.
Investment Considerations:
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This coin represents a solid investment in numismatics, combining the intrinsic value of silver with the collectible appeal of a well-preserved, low-mintage coin from a storied mint. Its value can appreciate over time, particularly if demand for Morgan Dollars or silver prices increase. However, like all collectibles, its market value can fluctuate based on economic conditions and collector trends.
The 1883 American Silver Morgan Dollar S CC BU is a stunning piece of American coinage history, offering both the beauty of uncirculated silver and the allure of the Carson City Mint, making it a prized addition to any collection.