1901-O $1 Morgan Dollar PCGS MS64

Key Features:

• Obverse:
  • The obverse features a profile portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom, with the word “LIBERTY” inscribed on a headband. Her hair is adorned with cotton and wheat, representing America’s agricultural heritage.
  • Around the border, the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Out of Many, One) appear, along with 13 stars and the date “1901”.
• Reverse:
  • The reverse displays a majestic bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing a readiness for war and a desire for peace.
  • The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” encircle the eagle, with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” above its head.
  • The “O” mintmark below the wreath indicates it was struck at the New Orleans Mint, a significant location for U.S. coinage during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
• Silver Content: 0.77344 troy ounces of silver.
• Diameter: 38.1 mm.
• Weight: 26.73 grams

Historical Context:

• The Morgan Dollar was minted during a period of economic growth and expansion in the United States. The 1901-O Morgan Dollar was struck toward the end of the Morgan series, just three years before it was temporarily discontinued in 1904.
• The New Orleans Mint was a key facility for producing silver dollars, though coins from this mint are often known for weaker strikes compared to those from Philadelphia or San Francisco. Despite this, well-struck examples like those in MS64 are prized by collectors.

Mintage & Rarity:

• The 1901-O Morgan Dollar had a mintage of 13,320,000, making it one of the more common Morgan Dollars. However, the rarity of the coin increases significantly in higher grades, as many of the coins from this year were weakly struck or heavily circulated.
• In MS64, the 1901-O is moderately scarce but not as rare as higher Mint State grades. This grade provides a balance between affordability and quality, making it appealing to a wide range of collectors.

Conclusion:

The 1901-O $1 Morgan Dollar PCGS MS64 is an excellent choice for collectors and investors alike. Its high-grade, uncirculated condition makes it an attractive coin with great eye appeal, while its New Orleans mintmark adds a layer of historical intrigue. The MS64 grade provides an opportunity to own a premium example of this iconic coin without the higher price tag of gem-quality grades. As part of the beloved Morgan Dollar series, this coin represents both a beautiful collectible and a solid investment in U.S. numismatics.