1885-O Morgan Silver Dollar
United States Mint (New Orleans Mint) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1880s (Specifically 1885)
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper; contains 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver.
Condition
Very Good to Excellent (Potential MS-63 to MS-65). The item is labeled as Gem Uncirculated, showing strong luster, sharp details in the hair and cap, and minimal contact marks on the cheek.
Demand Level
Hot. Morgan Dollars are the most actively traded and sought-after vintage US coins in the market today.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $55.00 | Mid: $85.00 | High: $175.00+ (Extreme high end requires professional grading by PCGS or NGC).
Estimated Retail Value
$65.00 - $150.00 (Based on current numismatic retail pricing for uncertified MS-grade coins).
Comparable Sales
Recent 1885-O raw BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) specimens have sold on eBay for between $60 and $95. Professionally graded NGC/PCGS MS-65 examples regularly exceed $180.
Description
A stunning 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar minted in New Orleans ('O' mint mark on reverse, though only obverse is shown). This coin features the iconic Liberty head design by George T. Morgan. It retains original mint luster with 'cartwheel' effect and crisp strike details. Housed in a 2x2 cardboard staple flip.
Key Features
High silver content, historical New Orleans 'O' mint mark, 'Gem Uncirculated' status, high investor demand for Morgan Dollars in high grades.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct denticles and lettering style; natural luster flow lines; correct date font. Confidence Level: High, but raw coins always carry a risk of being cleaned or high-quality counterfeits.
Flaws to Note
Minor bag marks visible in the fields; slight golden toning around the rim which may be attractive to some but viewed as a flaw by others; the coin is currently raw (not professionally graded).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (highest reach), local coin shops (fast cash), or specialty auction houses (Heritage Auctions) if it grades higher than MS-65.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean the coin, as this destroys its numismatic value. Take clear, high-resolution macro photos showing the 'cartwheel' luster. Mention 'New Orleans Mint' and 'Gem Uncirculated' in the title. Use a padded mailer for shipping.