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The 1888-O Morgan Silver Dollar, known as the "Hot Lips" variety, in Good to Very Good (G-VG) condition, is one of the most intriguing and collectible error coins from the Morgan Dollar series. This variety gets its name from the distinctive and dramatic doubling on Liberty’s lips, a striking result of a doubled die error at the New Orleans Mint. While many Morgan Dollars have their own appeal, the Hot Lips variety stands out due to the uniqueness of this die error, making it highly coveted by collectors of both Morgan Dollars and error coins. Despite being in G-VG condition, where the details are more worn, the distinct doubling on Liberty's lips remains visible, offering collectors an affordable way to own this famous variety.
The Morgan Silver Dollar series was minted from 1878 to 1904, with one final issue in 1921. Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, this series is one of the most beloved in American numismatics. The coins were produced following the passage of the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large amounts of silver to support the silver mining industry in the western United States. The Morgan Dollar's design, featuring a detailed portrait of Liberty on the obverse and a bold eagle on the reverse, became an enduring symbol of American coinage. The 1888-O Hot Lips variety, minted in New Orleans, adds another layer of intrigue to this already popular series due to the nature of the die error.
The obverse of the 1888-O Morgan Silver Dollar showcases the classic portrait of Lady Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with a band inscribed with "LIBERTY." Her hair flows down her neck, and a wreath of cotton and wheat surrounds her head. The date "1888" is positioned at the bottom of the obverse, below Liberty’s neck. The key characteristic of the Hot Lips variety is the noticeable doubling of Liberty's lips, giving the coin its name. Even in G-VG condition, where much of the finer detail may be worn down from circulation, the doubled lips remain distinct enough to identify the variety. The obverse in this condition will show general wear, with the highest points, such as Liberty’s cheek and hair, appearing more flattened, but the key error feature remains visible.
The reverse of the 1888-O Morgan Silver Dollar features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and preparedness for war. Above the eagle is the inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST," and encircling the eagle are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR." The "O" mintmark, indicating the coin was struck at the New Orleans Mint, is located just below the eagle’s tail feathers. In G-VG condition, the reverse design will show considerable wear, particularly on the eagle’s breast and wings. However, the overall design remains intact, and the mintmark is still visible, allowing collectors to identify the coin’s origin.
The New Orleans Mint, where the 1888-O Morgan Dollar was struck, played a significant role in U.S. coin production from its establishment in 1838 until its closure in 1909. Known for producing millions of silver dollars during the Morgan Dollar era, the New Orleans Mint also produced several notable error coins, including the 1888-O Hot Lips variety. The error was the result of a doubled die, where the die used to strike the obverse of the coin was impressed twice, creating a noticeable shift in Liberty's lips and chin. The error was not caught during production, and a number of these coins were released into circulation, making the Hot Lips variety one of the most famous and collectible error coins in the Morgan Dollar series.
The 1888-O Morgan Silver Dollar had a total mintage of 12,150,000 coins, but only a small fraction of these were struck using the doubled die that created the Hot Lips variety. While the overall mintage of the 1888-O Morgan Dollar was relatively high, the Hot Lips variety is much rarer, especially in higher grades. Even in G-VG condition, the scarcity of this error variety makes it a valuable piece for collectors. The wear from circulation, though significant, does not diminish the appeal of the doubling, which remains the defining feature of this coin.
The Morgan Dollar series is one of the most iconic in U.S. coinage, and the 1888-O Hot Lips variety adds a fascinating chapter to its history. The dramatic doubling on Liberty's lips makes this variety instantly recognizable and highly collectible, even in lower grades like Good to Very Good. For collectors who appreciate error coins or who are working to complete a set of Morgan Dollars, the 1888-O Hot Lips in G-VG condition offers a more affordable option to own a piece of numismatic history. Despite the wear, the coin retains its historical significance and unique appeal, making it a prized addition to any collection.