Crossing the Block: Three Pleasing Silver Dollars for the Collector

By Greg Cohen, Numismatist and Consignment Director

Stack’s Bowers Galleries will be presenting many outstanding silver dollars in our March Baltimore Sale, including Gouri Gupta's Morgan Dollar Collection and hundreds of other coins from other consignors. The following three coins are single coin consignments that I had the pleasure of working with the owners. The other similarity is that they came in uncertified by PCGS , and we submitted the coins on behalf of the consignor. None of these coins are extremely rare or expensive, but they are quality collector coins that are always popular.

The first is an 1860-O Liberty Seated dollar. MS-63 (PCGS), featured as lot 8073. While this space is often dedicated to coins of higher value, I thought it would be an interesting change of pace to focus on a coin that is in the realm of most collectors. While not particularly rare, thanks to a famous hoard released by the Treasury Department in the 1960s, the 1860-O is a very popular No Motto Seated Liberty dollar, a date often selected by type collectors. What makes this coin interesting is that due to its satiny smooth surfaces, and evenly patinated surfaces, this coin is likely not from the Treasury hoard. Hoard coins, while often “Unc.,” show many bagmarks and impaired luster. This piece will fit very nicely in any Mint State type set, or advanced Liberty Seated dollar set. It is well struck with satiny luster and attractive olive-gold, copper, and midnight blue patina.

The second coin is an 1893-S Morgan dollar. VF-35 (PCGS) (CAC), featured as lot 8420. This coin is very pleasing for grade, and this grade level is very popular for specialists looking for an attractive example of this key date. Only 100,000 coins were struck, and many of the survivors show signs of cleaning or other damage. Finding an original example of the date in this condition can be quite a challenge.

Finally, we are pleased to offer lot 8447 a lovely Cameo Proof 1896 Morgan dollar, graded Proof-64 Cameo by PCGS. The coin has rich contrast between fields and devices and attractive toning at the rims.

If silver dollars are your specialty, you are advised to make plans to attend our March sale, the official auction of the Whitman Coin and Collectibles Baltimore Expo.