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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1896-S MS63 NGC toned (A) is a highly attractive and semi-key issue within the popular Morgan Dollar series, known for both its historical significance and numismatic scarcity in higher grades. This particular coin, graded MS63 by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), offers collectors a well-preserved Mint State specimen from the San Francisco Mint, enhanced further by natural toning that adds character and visual appeal. As a Mint State coin with original luster and notable eye appeal, this 1896-S Morgan Dollar represents a compelling acquisition for advanced collectors.
The Morgan Dollar was introduced in 1878, following the passage of the Bland-Allison Act, which mandated large-scale silver purchases by the U.S. government to support Western mining interests. Designed by George T. Morgan, the dollar featured a bold and artistic depiction of Liberty on the obverse and a majestic eagle on the reverse. The series ran through 1904, with a final reissue in 1921, and was struck at five different mints over the years. Among these, the San Francisco Mint was known for producing sharp, high-quality strikes, particularly evident in issues like the 1896-S.
The 1896-S Morgan Dollar had a mintage of just 5,000,000 pieces, relatively modest compared to other issues of the same year, such as the Philadelphia Mint’s 9.9 million. Despite the mintage figure, the 1896-S is notably scarce in Mint State condition due to the high attrition rate and lower survival numbers. Many of these coins entered circulation shortly after mintage, and fewer were saved by collectors or stored in Treasury vaults. Consequently, Mint State examples are uncommon, and coins graded MS63 or higher are significantly more elusive and desirable.
The obverse of the coin showcases George T. Morgan’s rendition of Lady Liberty, facing left and adorned with a Phrygian cap, wheat, and cotton blossoms to represent American agriculture. Encircling Liberty are the inscriptions “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” thirteen stars representing the original colonies, and the date “1896.” On this MS63 specimen, the design elements are crisply struck, with sharp definition in Liberty’s hair and cap. The coin’s surfaces exhibit clean fields and frosty devices, with only minor marks consistent with the grade and no evidence of wear or friction.
The reverse features a powerful eagle with outstretched wings, perched above a laurel wreath and clutching arrows and an olive branch—symbols of war and peace. Above the eagle is the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and around the rim appear the legends “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR.” The distinctive “S” mintmark beneath the wreath denotes its origin at the San Francisco Mint. As expected of coins from this facility, the strike quality is high, and the eagle’s breast and wing feathers are rendered with strong detail, contributing to the coin’s solid Mint State status.
What sets this particular coin apart is its toning, a natural oxidation process that can produce vivid colorations depending on the storage environment and coin composition. The toned surfaces of this 1896-S Morgan Dollar may feature hues such as golden amber, rose, violet, blue, or a rainbow blend, which enhances both the coin’s visual beauty and its collectibility. While toning does not affect a coin’s technical grade, it significantly influences eye appeal, and attractively toned examples often carry premiums in the numismatic market.
NGC’s MS63 grade reflects a coin with full mint luster, strong strike, and only moderate contact marks or minor abrasions visible under magnification. The encapsulation in a certified holder guarantees the coin’s authenticity and shields it from further handling, oxidation, and environmental damage. The tamper-evident holder includes the NGC certification number, grade, and issue description, adding value for resale and confidence for the collector.
The 1896-S Morgan Dollar occupies a special niche among late-19th century San Francisco issues. Although not as rare as the legendary 1893-S or 1889-CC, the 1896-S becomes challenging in grades above AU, and Mint State examples like this MS63 are infrequently offered. The scarcity is compounded when attractive toning is present, making this coin a standout piece even among other certified examples. Its appearance would appeal to those building a toned Morgan Dollar collection or seeking key San Francisco issues in investment-grade quality.
Historically, the 1896-S was minted during a time of national economic transition. The nation had just emerged from the Panic of 1893, a severe depression that led to intense political debate about the gold and silver standards. Silver dollars such as the Morgan series were emblematic of this struggle, as they were struck in compliance with federal mandates despite their limited use in commerce. As a result, many Morgans were stockpiled or melted, especially after the passage of the Pittman Act in 1918, further reducing the number of surviving examples in Mint State.
This 1896-S Morgan Dollar offers a compelling blend of numismatic value, visual allure, and historical significance. Its Mint State preservation ensures that all design elements are presented as intended by the engraver, while the toning introduces an additional layer of beauty and individuality. Whether added to a date-mint collection, a toned coin display, or a broader portfolio of U.S. silver coinage, this example is a superb representation of late 19th-century American minting excellence.
In conclusion, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1896-S MS63 NGC toned (A) is a premium example of a difficult San Francisco issue that combines sharp strike, original mint luster, and appealing natural toning. Graded and protected by NGC, it offers both investment-grade condition and aesthetic allure. For collectors seeking to enhance their Morgan Dollar collection with a distinguished, visually rich coin, this piece delivers exceptional value and enduring historical significance.