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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1885 MS64PL PCGS is a stunning example of 19th-century American numismatics that showcases the popular design of the Morgan Dollar series paired with an eye-catching prooflike finish. Minted at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin bears no mintmark and was struck during a period of overproduction and economic uncertainty surrounding silver coinage. What distinguishes this particular piece is not only its high Mint State 64 grade but also the PL, or Prooflike, designation, awarded by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). The combination of these two attributes—sharp preservation and superior eye appeal—makes this coin highly collectible and of strong interest to numismatists seeking standout pieces within the broader Morgan Dollar series.
The Morgan Dollar was introduced in 1878 and remained in production until 1904, with a brief revival in 1921. It was authorized under the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver and convert it into coinage. The coin’s namesake, George T. Morgan, was an assistant engraver at the U.S. Mint, and his design marked a shift in American coinage by modeling Liberty after an American woman, Anna Willess Williams, instead of using classical European allegory. This symbolized a more contemporary and nationalistic vision for American currency, and Morgan’s design has since become one of the most beloved and recognizable in the hobby.
On the obverse of the 1885 Morgan Dollar, Liberty is depicted in profile facing left, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with agricultural symbols like wheat and cotton, signifying America’s agrarian roots. The inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arcs across the top rim, while the date “1885” appears at the bottom, framed by thirteen stars representing the original colonies. The precision of the hair curls, cap details, and facial features is especially striking on PL-designated coins, where the frosty devices stand out boldly against the mirror-like fields.
The reverse features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch to symbolize both strength and peace. A laurel wreath surrounds the eagle, and the phrases “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “ONE DOLLAR” encircle the design. On this Philadelphia issue, there is no mintmark present below the wreath. The reflective surfaces of a PL coin serve to enhance the textures of the eagle’s feathers and the intricacies of the wreath, making for a visually dynamic and rewarding collector experience.
In 1885, the Philadelphia Mint produced 17,787,000 Morgan Dollars, a fairly high output even by the standards of the time. Despite the large mintage, most of these coins were stored for decades in Treasury vaults and released later in bulk, particularly in the 1960s, which flooded the market with Mint State coins. However, only a small percentage of these coins display prooflike characteristics. Coins designated as PL were struck early from highly polished dies and show strong mirror reflectivity on both obverse and reverse fields. PCGS requires that both sides of the coin reflect text from approximately four to six inches away to meet the PL threshold, and this type of surface dramatically enhances the contrast between the fields and the raised design elements.
The MS64 grade indicates a coin that is in uncirculated condition with a sharp strike and substantial mint luster, though it may have some small contact marks or abrasions, typically in less visually distracting locations. The addition of the PL designation elevates the coin's status considerably, as prooflike coins are scarcer and more desirable than their standard Mint State counterparts. A coin at this grade level retains all its design detail and presents outstanding eye appeal, particularly with the enhanced reflectivity that characterizes prooflike issues.
PCGS, one of the most trusted grading services in the world, ensures that this coin has been accurately and independently evaluated for authenticity and quality. Their encapsulation process provides secure, tamper-evident storage in a hard plastic slab that protects the coin from environmental damage while showcasing its condition and attributes on a clear label. For collectors seeking consistency, credibility, and liquidity in the marketplace, a PCGS-certified MS64PL coin offers both aesthetic and investment value.
The physical specifications of the 1885 Morgan Silver Dollar follow the standard for the series. The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 38.1 millimeters and a total weight of 26.73 grams. It has a reeded edge and was struck using a standard medal-turn alignment. Despite its bullion content, the true appeal of the 1885 Morgan Dollar lies in its numismatic characteristics, particularly when found in exceptional grades like MS64PL, which elevates it beyond mere silver value into the realm of true collectible artistry.
Visually, a PL coin presents an entirely different experience compared to a typical Morgan Dollar. The frosted devices appear to float above the deep, mirror-like surfaces, often creating a cameo effect, especially noticeable on the portrait of Liberty and the eagle. While not as intensely contrasted as Deep Mirror Prooflike (DMPL) coins, PL specimens still offer a brilliant, mirrored finish that significantly enhances the design’s depth and visual drama. This coin’s visual performance under light and magnification makes it a highlight of any Morgan Dollar collection.
The 1885 Morgan Dollar in MS64PL condition is especially appealing to collectors building type sets or those who focus on eye appeal, high-grade examples, and scarce finishes. It offers a valuable middle ground for collectors who want something more visually engaging than a typical Mint State coin but without the high premium attached to DMPL or MS65+ grades. Its strong strike, brilliant luster, and reflective surfaces represent an optimal balance of quality, rarity, and value. Additionally, the coin’s classic design and historical significance ensure long-term collectability and investment potential.
In conclusion, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1885 MS64PL PCGS is a premium example of American coinage at its most artistic and refined. With its prooflike surfaces, high-grade designation, and PCGS certification, it stands out as a superior specimen within the Morgan series. Whether acquired for historical appreciation, visual allure, or registry completion, this coin offers collectors a tangible connection to America’s silver legacy and the enduring appeal of the Morgan Dollar’s timeless beauty.