1883-CC $1 Morgan Dollar PCGS MS63 GSA

Key Features

1. Design:
   • Obverse: Features Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, symbolizing freedom and agriculture. Designed by George T. Morgan.
   • Reverse: Displays a bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace.
   • Inscribed with “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and “ONE DOLLAR.”
2. Specifications:
   • Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
   • Weight: 26.73 grams (0.7734 troy ounces of silver).
   • Diameter: 38.1 mm.
   • Edge: Reeded.
3. Mintmark:
   • Produced at the Carson City Mint (CC), known for its association with the Old West and the Comstock Lode silver boom.

GSA Holder and Historical Context

• GSA Hoard:
  • The GSA Hoard was a Treasury vault discovery of Carson City Morgan Dollars, released to the public through GSA auctions in the 1970s and 1980s.
  • Many of these coins had been stored in pristine condition, making them highly sought after, especially when still in their original GSA holders.
• Original Packaging:
  • Comes sealed in a GSA hard plastic holder, often accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (COA).
  • Coins in original GSA holders command premiums due to their provenance.

Mintage and Rarity

• Total Mintage: 1,204,000 coins were minted in 1883 at the Carson City Mint.
• GSA Population:
  • A significant portion of this mintage was discovered in the GSA Hoard, ensuring many examples remain in mint condition.
  • Coins preserved in GSA holders are more desirable than those removed and re-holdered.

Grading and Condition

• PCGS MS63:
  • Mint State 63 is a choice uncirculated grade, indicating no wear and full mint luster but with some bag marks or surface abrasions from handling.
  • Graded by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), providing authenticity and reliable certification.

Historical Significance

1. Carson City Mint:
   • Operated from 1870 to 1893, producing coins using silver from the Comstock Lode in Nevada.
   • Carson City coins symbolize the Old West, making them favorites among collectors.
2. GSA Auctions:
   • Rediscovered Treasury vault hoards preserved these coins in mint condition, contributing to their high availability in uncirculated grades today.
   • The GSA packaging adds historical provenance, enhancing desirability.

Collectibility and Investment Potential

1. Historical Appeal:
   • Combines Old West heritage, Carson City rarity, and GSA provenance into a single collectible item.
2. Liquidity:
   • Carson City Morgans, especially in GSA holders, are highly liquid and widely recognized.
3. Growth Potential:
   • Prices for CC Morgans have historically shown steady appreciation, particularly those in high grades or GSA holders.

Conclusion

The 1883-CC $1 Morgan Dollar PCGS MS63 GSA is a highly collectible coin valued for its Carson City mintmark, historical significance, and original GSA packaging.