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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1887/6 AU58 PCGS is a particularly fascinating and sought-after variety within the Morgan Dollar series due to its overdate feature. As one of the few recognized overdates in the Morgan Dollar family, the 1887/6 presents a striking example of a minting anomaly where a 6 was originally punched into the working die and later corrected by punching a 7 over it. Graded About Uncirculated 58 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin exhibits full detail with minimal wear, virtually on the cusp of Mint State, while still retaining the clarity of its unique overdate characteristic.
Discovered and attributed as a genuine overdate, the 1887/6 Morgan Dollar is believed to have resulted from the repurposing of a leftover 1886 working die by the Philadelphia Mint. Rather than discarding the die, engravers chose to repunch the last digit with a “7,” creating the clear overdate seen on some examples. While this was not an uncommon practice in earlier U.S. coinage, overdates had become relatively rare by the late 19th century, making this error both historically and numismatically significant. The variety is listed in the standard reference guides such as the “Red Book” and is assigned its own designation by the major grading services.
The design on the obverse of this Morgan Dollar is the classic portrait of Liberty, designed by George T. Morgan, who created the series in 1878. Liberty is depicted facing left, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with cotton and wheat, symbolic of the unity between the South and North. The overdate feature is found in the final digit of the date “1887” at the bottom center of the obverse. Upon close inspection, remnants of the underlying “6” can be seen beneath the “7,” especially in high-grade examples like this AU58. This key diagnostic sets it apart from the standard 1887 issue, giving the coin both rarity and visual intrigue.
The reverse features the familiar image of a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, surrounded by a laurel wreath. Above the eagle’s head appears the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” encircling the design. As a Philadelphia Mint issue, there is no mintmark present on the reverse. The strike on AU58 examples is typically strong, and this coin displays clear feather and wreath detail, with only the highest points of the design—such as Liberty’s cheek and the eagle’s breast—showing very light wear from brief circulation.
Production of Morgan Dollars in 1887 at the Philadelphia Mint totaled over 20 million pieces, a substantial mintage by any standard. However, only a very small percentage of these were struck with the overdate die, making the 1887/6 variety significantly rarer than its normal counterpart. Estimates suggest only a few thousand overdate examples survive today in all grades, and many went unrecognized for decades. The relative scarcity and error status of the 1887/6 have ensured sustained interest from both die variety specialists and collectors of unusual minting anomalies.
The PCGS AU58 grade marks this piece as nearly uncirculated, with just the faintest touch of wear keeping it from receiving a Mint State designation. Coins in this grade offer exceptional value, combining much of the detail and luster of a Mint State coin with the affordability and accessibility of lightly circulated examples. PCGS certification adds a layer of trust and provenance, confirming both the authenticity and proper attribution of the overdate. Encased in a secure, tamper-resistant holder, the coin’s details and overdate variety are clearly labeled, making it easy to identify and catalog.
From a physical standpoint, the 1887/6 Morgan Dollar adheres to the standard specifications for the series. It is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, has a diameter of 38.1 millimeters, and weighs 26.73 grams. The edge is reeded, and the coin was struck in coin turn orientation. Despite its age, an AU58 example retains most of its original mint luster, particularly in the protected areas of the fields and around the devices. The eye appeal is further enhanced by the presence of sharp detail and smooth surfaces, typically free from distracting marks or damage.
Collectors gravitate toward coins like the 1887/6 because they combine a significant minting anomaly with high aesthetic and technical quality. Unlike minor die cracks or repunched mintmarks, this overdate is readily visible to the naked eye, especially in higher-grade specimens like AU58. As such, it serves not only as a conversation piece but also as a cornerstone variety for any advanced Morgan Dollar collection. It is listed as a major variety in most Morgan Dollar guides and is an essential inclusion for those pursuing VAM (Van Allen-Mallis) varieties or a comprehensive Morgan Dollar registry set.
The appeal of the 1887/6 Morgan Dollar goes beyond just the overdate itself. It offers a glimpse into minting practices of the 19th century, when resourcefulness often meant reusing old dies rather than discarding them. It reflects the technological limitations and economic considerations of the time, while simultaneously demonstrating the level of detail collectors can extract from a close examination of coins. In this way, the 1887/6 helps bridge the gap between casual collecting and scholarly numismatics.
In summary, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1887/6 AU58 PCGS is a high-grade, historically meaningful, and visually striking example of one of the Morgan series’ most celebrated overdates. With nearly all of its original design details intact and minimal signs of circulation, this AU58 example delivers exceptional collector value. The overdate adds rarity and depth, distinguishing it from standard issues and making it a standout piece in any silver dollar collection. PCGS certification ensures authenticity and accurate attribution, offering both security and prestige to the discerning collector who acquires it.