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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1891 MS63 ANACS represents a well-preserved and historically significant example from one of the later issues in the celebrated Morgan dollar series. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1891 Morgan Dollar is a relatively common date in circulated grades but becomes increasingly scarce and valuable in Mint State condition, particularly in grades of MS63 and above. This coin’s certification by ANACS, one of the most reputable third-party grading services in the United States, confirms its authenticity and affirms its grade as a solid example of a coin that has survived the rigors of time and handling with strong original features intact.
The Morgan Dollar was named after its designer, George T. Morgan, an English-born engraver who became one of the most influential artists at the U.S. Mint. First issued in 1878 and struck through 1904, then again in 1921, the Morgan Dollar is one of the most beloved silver coins in American numismatics. Its large size, heavy silver content, and elegant design contribute to its ongoing popularity. The 1891 Philadelphia issue saw the final mintage of Morgan dollars before a one-year pause in production at the Philadelphia Mint in 1892. It also marks the end of a period of high production and transition within the Mint itself.
The obverse of the 1891 Morgan Dollar features the iconic portrait of Liberty facing left, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with a wreath of cotton and wheat—a nod to the unity of North and South. Inscribed above her head is “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” while the date “1891” appears at the bottom, framed by thirteen stars representing the original colonies. On an MS63 specimen, the coin retains strong luster across the fields and design, with only minor contact marks present, typically in non-distracting locations such as the cheek or field areas. The fine details in Liberty’s hair and facial features remain bold and well defined.
The reverse design is equally striking, featuring a heraldic eagle with wings outstretched, clutching arrows and an olive branch—symbols of military readiness and peace. The eagle is encircled by a laurel wreath and surmounted by the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Around the edge are the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR.” As this example was struck in Philadelphia, there is no mintmark below the wreath. The MS63 grade ensures that the eagle’s feathers are fully visible with only light abrasions in the open areas of the fields or devices. The cartwheel luster often seen on Morgan Dollars is still present and adds visual appeal.
The 1891 Philadelphia Morgan Dollar had a generous mintage of 8,694,000 pieces, one of the higher totals in the series. However, the vast majority of these coins entered circulation or were stored in large bags that led to heavy bag marks and abrasions over time. As a result, Mint State examples—particularly those graded MS63 and higher—are less common than the total mintage would suggest. Many uncirculated pieces exhibit significant chatter or dull surfaces, which makes a coin like this with good eye appeal and minimal distractions particularly desirable to collectors.
ANACS, or the American Numismatic Association Certification Service, is the oldest grading service in the United States and has long been trusted by collectors and dealers for its conservative and accurate grading standards. The MS63 grade assigned by ANACS indicates a coin that is uncirculated with average-to-above-average luster and a solid strike. While there may be some minor contact marks consistent with the grade, there are no major abrasions or detracting flaws. The coin is securely encapsulated in a tamper-evident holder that offers both protection and the assurance of authenticity and grade.
Like all Morgan Dollars, the 1891 issue is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, giving it a total silver weight of 0.7734 troy ounces. It measures 38.1 millimeters in diameter and weighs 26.73 grams. These specifications were consistent across all Morgan Dollars and contribute to the coin’s popularity not only among numismatists but also with bullion investors who value the intrinsic silver content alongside the historical and artistic value. The silver content adds to the coin’s baseline worth, while its condition and certification elevate its collectible value even further.
Coins in MS63 condition represent a particularly attractive entry point for collectors seeking high-quality examples without the significant premiums commanded by MS64 or MS65 grades. The 1891 Morgan Dollar in MS63 offers a strong blend of luster, strike, and preservation, making it ideal for inclusion in type sets, date sets, or comprehensive Morgan collections. It also appeals to those interested in historical coinage from the Gilded Age, a period of economic growth and transformation in American history.
While many Morgan Dollars exist in lower circulated grades, the MS63 grade ensures that this coin retains its original Mint State character. It has not been subjected to the wear and handling that typically diminish detail and luster in circulated pieces. Collectors will appreciate the clarity of the devices, the sharpness of the design, and the overall eye appeal of a well-preserved example. Each toned highlight or remaining frost on the devices enhances the numismatic value and adds to the coin’s unique identity within the series.
For those assembling a date set of Morgan Dollars, the 1891 Philadelphia issue is a required piece that stands out for its finality in pre-1892 production. It serves as a historical bookmark before the series continued into the more scarce and sought-after issues of the mid-1890s. As a certified MS63 specimen by ANACS, it provides not only visual satisfaction but also long-term value due to its encapsulated protection, market recognition, and solid strike.
In conclusion, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1891 MS63 ANACS is a compelling example of classic U.S. coinage from the turn of the 19th century. With its historic roots, beautifully executed design, strong Mint State preservation, and reliable third-party certification, this coin embodies the enduring appeal of the Morgan Dollar series. Whether as a centerpiece in a growing collection or as a standout silver investment, this high-grade Philadelphia issue offers lasting value and undeniable charm.