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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1887 MS63PL PCGS is an impressive numismatic specimen that combines historical value, superb preservation, and the desirable “Prooflike” designation. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this example has been professionally graded by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) as Mint State 63, with the PL (Prooflike) modifier indicating highly reflective fields that mimic the appearance of a proof coin. The addition of the (b) designation likely refers to internal tracking, but the key attributes remain its uncirculated status and the mirror-like surface quality. This coin stands out both for its technical merits and visual beauty, making it a notable addition to any serious Morgan Dollar collection.
The 1887 Morgan Dollar hails from a prolific period of silver dollar production under the Bland-Allison Act, which mandated large-scale silver coinage to benefit Western mining interests. George T. Morgan, an English engraver hired by the U.S. Mint, designed the coin in 1878. His design introduced a fresh, distinctly American portrayal of Liberty and would remain largely unchanged throughout the series. The 1887 issue represents the tenth year of Morgan Dollar production and is considered common in circulated and low Mint State grades. However, examples with the PL designation are substantially scarcer and more coveted by collectors who seek high eye appeal and semi-prooflike characteristics.
The obverse features the elegant profile of Lady Liberty, facing left, wearing a Phrygian cap inscribed with “LIBERTY” and adorned with cotton bolls and wheat—symbols of both Northern and Southern agriculture. The fields behind Liberty on this Prooflike example exhibit strong reflectivity, with mirrored surfaces that contrast beautifully with the frosted appearance of the devices. The inscriptions “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arc above Liberty’s head, flanked by thirteen stars representing the original colonies, and the date “1887” appears below. The MS63 grade ensures a sharp strike with only moderate marks or hairlines, typically away from focal points.
The reverse displays a heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch in its talons, encircled by a laurel wreath and topped with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” complete the design around the periphery. The fields on the reverse are similarly reflective, making the eagle appear as if it were floating over a deep, mirror-like backdrop. As with most Philadelphia issues, no mintmark appears on this side. Even though the 1887 Morgan Dollar is common in general, finding one with strong PL characteristics and minimal abrasions is notably harder, especially with PCGS certification.
The Philadelphia Mint produced a total of 20,290,000 Morgan Dollars in 1887, a mintage large enough to satisfy Treasury quotas and keep silver flowing through the Mint’s coining presses. Most of these were stored in vaults for decades and later released in the 1960s and 1970s. As a result, large quantities of 1887 Morgans survive in Mint State, but only a small fraction exhibit the mirrored, reflective fields required for a PL designation. These Prooflike coins were produced when dies were freshly polished and early strikes had not yet worn down surface detail or luster. Thus, PL coins are generally considered the earliest and sharpest strikes from each die pairing.
The MS63PL grade balances strong aesthetics with an accessible price point. Mint State 63 allows for some scattered contact marks and light abrasions, typically seen on Liberty’s cheek or the eagle’s wings—common high points of the design. However, the coin retains full original mint luster, and its PL surfaces add a remarkable depth and clarity to the overall presentation. The contrast between the frosted motifs and mirror-like fields offers collectors a semi-proof experience in a business strike format, which is often preferred by those who appreciate artistic beauty and historical function combined.
PCGS certification provides confidence in the coin’s authenticity and quality. As one of the most respected grading services in the numismatic world, PCGS is known for rigorous grading standards and consistent evaluation. The coin is housed in a tamper-evident, sonically sealed holder with a clear label that confirms its grade, year, mint, and PL status. This not only protects the coin for long-term preservation but also ensures liquidity and trust within the marketplace. PL Morgans graded by PCGS are especially popular in registry sets and among collectors who prize both rarity and aesthetic beauty.
The physical specifications of the coin are standard for all Morgan Dollars. It weighs 26.73 grams and measures 38.1 millimeters in diameter. Composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, the coin has a reeded edge and a silver content of 0.7734 troy ounces. These specifications contribute to both its intrinsic and collectible value, making it desirable to investors and numismatists alike. The brilliant reflectivity and minimal toning on this particular example further enhance its visual allure, especially under direct lighting where the mirrored fields come to life.
The Prooflike designation carries significant importance within the Morgan Dollar series. It reflects not just an accidental finish but a deliberate product of minting circumstances—usually tied to fresh dies, polished surfaces, and clean planchets. PL coins are generally more desirable than standard Mint State examples and can command substantial premiums depending on their eye appeal and scarcity. For the 1887 Morgan, which is relatively abundant in typical grades, the PL variety adds an extra layer of collectibility and sophistication.
In summary, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1887 MS63PL PCGS (b) is a standout example of a common-date Morgan Dollar elevated by its pristine surfaces and Prooflike finish. With a sharply struck design, brilliant luster, and mirrored fields that showcase the artistry of George T. Morgan’s iconic composition, this coin is a strong choice for collectors looking to enhance their Morgan Dollar set with something special. Its PCGS certification and PL status affirm both its technical merit and long-term desirability, ensuring that it will remain a highlight in any advanced or aesthetically focused numismatic collection.