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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1885-S AU55 PCGS represents a scarce and desirable branch mint issue from the revered Morgan Dollar series. Graded About Uncirculated 55 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin offers an exceptional blend of historical intrigue, moderate circulation wear, and considerable eye appeal. The “S” mintmark indicates it was struck at the San Francisco Mint, a facility widely respected among numismatists for its high-quality coinage during the late 19th century. As one of the more challenging dates in the Morgan Dollar series in higher grades, the 1885-S is particularly attractive in this state of preservation, occupying a sweet spot for collectors who appreciate near-Mint State coins without paying Mint State premiums.
The Morgan Dollar was authorized by the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, mandating the Treasury to buy large amounts of silver to produce dollar coins. Designed by George T. Morgan, an English-born assistant engraver at the U.S. Mint, the coin features a robust depiction of Liberty modeled after schoolteacher Anna Willess Williams. The series was minted from 1878 to 1904 and briefly revived in 1921. The Morgan Dollar has long been a favorite among collectors, both for its historical resonance and for its iconic, detailed design.
The obverse of the 1885-S Morgan Dollar features Liberty facing left, adorned with a Phrygian cap symbolizing freedom. Her cap is decorated with cotton and wheat, symbols of the American South and North, respectively. Around her portrait are the inscriptions “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” the date “1885,” and thirteen stars representing the original colonies. Even in the AU55 grade, most details in Liberty’s hair, face, and headwear remain visible and sharp, though there may be slight smoothing from circulation on the highest points, such as the cheek and curls above the ear.
The reverse bears a powerful bald eagle with wings spread wide, clutching arrows in its left talon and an olive branch in its right—symbols of strength and peace. The eagle is surrounded by a laurel wreath and inscriptions reading “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DOLLAR,” and the national motto, “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Below the wreath lies the “S” mintmark, indicating production at the San Francisco Mint. On an AU55 example, the eagle’s breast and high points on the wings may show slight wear, but the devices still exhibit crisp detail and remaining mint luster, especially in protected areas.
In 1885, the San Francisco Mint struck only 1,497,000 Morgan Dollars—a relatively low mintage compared to Philadelphia’s nearly 18 million for the same year. Much of this limited issue circulated actively in the western United States, resulting in relatively few examples surviving in Mint State condition. Consequently, the 1885-S is considered scarce in uncirculated grades, and AU55 examples are often selected by collectors who want a high-quality representation of this issue without entering the steep price ranges of MS63 or higher coins.
The PCGS AU55 grade confirms that this coin has light wear confined to the highest points of the design while retaining about 75–80% of its original mint luster. The coin’s surfaces may exhibit some minor contact marks or abrasions from circulation, but they are generally unobtrusive. PCGS is known for its strict and consistent grading standards, so the AU55 designation assures collectors that the coin has not been over-graded or misrepresented. PCGS encapsulation in a tamper-evident holder further guarantees authenticity and protects the coin from environmental damage.
Physically, the coin adheres to the Morgan Dollar’s specifications: a diameter of 38.1 millimeters, a weight of 26.73 grams, and a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. The reeded edge and solid strike, especially typical of San Francisco Mint issues, contribute to the coin’s appeal. Even with light wear, this coin displays a striking combination of sharp relief and original surfaces, making it ideal for a high-grade type set or an advanced Morgan Dollar date/mint collection.
Collectors value the 1885-S not just for its low mintage and relative scarcity in high grades but also for its striking characteristics. San Francisco issues are renowned for their strong strikes and high-quality planchets. Even in AU55, many 1885-S coins maintain a level of detail and visual appeal that rivals some lower-end Mint State coins. Because of its scarcity and desirability, the 1885-S has long been a target date for Morgan Dollar enthusiasts, and coins in certified holders from trusted services like PCGS trade with strong demand in the numismatic market.
While the 1885-S is considered accessible in circulated grades, attractive AU55 examples are much less common. The combination of relatively low mintage, geographic distribution, and attrition due to commerce has left the hobby with fewer high-quality survivors. Coins like this one, with attractive toning, good eye appeal, and minimal wear, are often favored over lower-grade or heavily marked Mint State pieces. The AU55 level often represents the best value for collectors who seek original surface preservation and clear design detail without entering the much costlier MS territory.
Overall, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1885-S AU55 PCGS is a compelling example of a tougher branch mint date within the Morgan series. It is historically significant, moderately scarce, and beautifully preserved, with strong detail and remaining luster. The AU55 grade makes it an excellent acquisition for those assembling a complete Morgan Dollar set by date and mintmark, or for collectors focusing on eye appeal and value. Encapsulated and authenticated by PCGS, this coin provides confidence and collectibility in equal measure—a fine representation of one of America’s most celebrated silver dollars.