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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1890-O MS64+ NGC is a notable and highly collectible coin from the venerable Morgan dollar series, struck at the New Orleans Mint and graded by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC). The “MS64+” designation is particularly significant, as it denotes a coin that surpasses the quality of a standard Mint State 64 but does not quite meet the stringent criteria for a Mint State 65. This “plus” grade, issued by NGC, acknowledges superior eye appeal, strike, and surface quality within its grade band. The 1890-O Morgan Dollar, with its southern mint heritage and large mintage, becomes especially desirable in this high condition, as most surviving examples fall far below this level due to typical weak strikes and heavy bag marks.
Struck at the New Orleans Mint, the 1890-O Morgan Dollar is a product of one of the most storied mints in American history. Located in Louisiana, the New Orleans Mint operated intermittently between 1838 and 1909, playing a vital role in the production of silver and gold coinage for both the antebellum South and the post-Civil War United States. In 1890, the mint was still actively striking Morgan dollars to fulfill the requirements of the Bland-Allison Act, which mandated the purchase and coinage of large amounts of silver to support the mining industry and bolster the national money supply. The 1890-O Morgan had a mintage of 10,701,000 coins, a substantial figure that ensured wide circulation, though few were preserved in pristine condition.
George T. Morgan’s design, first introduced in 1878, remains one of the most iconic in U.S. coinage. The obverse of the 1890-O Morgan Silver Dollar features a portrait of Lady Liberty facing left, adorned with a Phrygian cap, agricultural wreaths of wheat and cotton, and a headband bearing the word “LIBERTY.” Around the periphery are the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” along with thirteen stars and the date “1890.” On this MS64+ example, Liberty’s cheek is mostly smooth with minimal contact marks, and the fields display a lustrous, near-gem quality surface. The strike, often weak for New Orleans issues, is sharper than usual here, with strong hair details and depth to the facial features.
The reverse continues the theme of national strength and unity, depicting an eagle with wings spread, clutching arrows and an olive branch. The eagle is encircled by a laurel wreath, and above its head appears the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Surrounding the design are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR,” and just beneath the wreath is the all-important “O” mintmark, denoting the New Orleans Mint. On this high-grade example, the eagle’s breast and wing feathers are unusually sharp for an O-mint issue, indicating a well-executed strike and excellent preservation. The reverse surfaces are mostly clean, with cartwheel luster enhancing the overall visual impact.
The 1890-O Morgan Dollar is not considered rare in circulated grades due to its high original mintage. However, well-struck and high-grade Mint State examples are far scarcer. Many coins from this issue suffer from excessive bag marks, soft strikes, and dull luster. This MS64+ NGC coin stands out from the bulk of survivors by combining excellent strike detail, near-gem surfaces, and minimal abrasions. The “plus” grade acknowledges that while the coin does not meet the absolute threshold for MS65, it exhibits many of the qualities that make it more appealing and desirable than a typical MS64.
NGC certification ensures the coin’s authenticity and grade, providing collectors with confidence in their acquisition. The NGC holder also protects the coin from environmental damage and tampering, ensuring its long-term preservation. As a grading authority, NGC is renowned for its consistency and strict standards, and the assignment of a “+” grade reflects their recognition of exceptional specimens that fall just shy of the next full grade. Collectors often seek out these “borderline gem” coins because they offer many of the visual advantages of higher-graded coins at a more accessible price point.
With a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper, the 1890-O Morgan Dollar contains 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver and has a diameter of 38.1 millimeters and a weight of 26.73 grams. These specifications remained standard across the series and contribute to the enduring appeal of Morgan dollars among both collectors and bullion investors. In the MS64+ grade, this coin commands a notable premium over typical Mint State examples due to its condition rarity and eye appeal.
Eye appeal is particularly important for Morgan dollars, and this MS64+ example displays vibrant, frosty luster with clean, well-preserved surfaces. Subtle toning, if present, enhances the visual charm and reinforces the coin’s originality. The coin’s fields, though not fully prooflike, exhibit a semi-reflective quality in protected areas that adds brilliance and depth to the overall presentation. Combined with a bold strike, this creates an outstanding example of an 1890-O Morgan dollar.
For collectors assembling a complete Morgan dollar date-and-mint set, the 1890-O in high Mint State condition is an important addition. Although not among the rarest dates in the series, its relative scarcity in premium grades and reputation for weak strikes make a well-struck MS64+ example especially desirable. It also appeals to those who focus on New Orleans coinage or those seeking standout examples that rise above average quality within common-date issues.
In conclusion, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1890-O MS64+ NGC is a compelling combination of beauty, condition, and historical interest. As a high-grade survivor from the New Orleans Mint, it transcends the typical quality seen in this issue, offering collectors a coin with strong strike detail, radiant luster, and exceptional surfaces. Graded by NGC and awarded a “plus” designation, this example sits near the top of its class and serves as a proud representative of one of America’s most beloved coin series. Whether as an upgrade for an existing set or a standout piece in a broader collection, this Morgan Dollar offers enduring value and timeless appeal.