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The 1900-O/CC Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most fascinating and collectible die varieties in the Morgan Dollar series, due to its overmintmark error, which combines the "O" mintmark of New Orleans with remnants of the earlier "CC" from the now-defunct Carson City Mint. This particular example, certified VF30 by PCGS, is a well-circulated but clearly defined specimen, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a coin that directly connects two important U.S. Mints—one closed and one still in operation at the time. The 1900-O/CC is more than a minting curiosity; it’s a compelling piece of numismatic history that reflects the reuse of old dies during a transitional period in U.S. coin production. Collectors drawn to varieties, errors, and mintmark anomalies will find this piece especially desirable.
The obverse of the coin features George T. Morgan’s iconic portrait of Lady Liberty, facing left, crowned with a Phrygian cap and adorned with cotton bolls and wheat—symbols of America’s agricultural heritage. Around her are the inscriptions “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and the date “1900,” with thirteen stars separating the motto and the date. The reverse displays the traditional Morgan Dollar eagle with wings spread wide, holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons. Above the eagle is the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and around the outer edge are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR.” The mintmark is located just below the tail feathers. On this variety, the New Orleans "O" was punched over a faint but visible Carson City "CC," resulting in the well-known “O/CC” overmintmark error.
The origin of the 1900-O/CC overmintmark lies in the U.S. Mint’s economical use of leftover dies from the Carson City Mint, which ceased coin production in 1893. Rather than discard unused dies that were still serviceable, the Mint repurposed them by overpunching new mintmarks—in this case, changing the "CC" to an "O" for the New Orleans Mint. These dies were then used to strike a portion of the 1900-O Morgan Dollar mintage. The result is one of the most well-documented and visually noticeable overmintmark varieties in the Morgan Dollar series. The remnants of the "CC" are most often seen beneath the "O," especially in the lower loops or edges, creating a highly collectible anomaly that sets these coins apart from regular 1900-O issues.
The 1900-O Morgan Dollar had a total mintage of 12,590,000 pieces. However, only a fraction of that number were struck using the O/CC dies. The exact number is unknown, but estimates suggest that the variety is scarce, though not rare, in circulated grades and significantly harder to find in high Mint State conditions. Because many of these coins entered circulation and remained there for years, examples in middle circulated grades—such as this PCGS-certified VF30—are often the most accessible and historically rich options. The coin’s widespread use also suggests it served its original monetary purpose before being recognized as a collectible variety, which adds to its appeal for those who value circulated coins with character.
PCGS has graded this coin as VF30, or Very Fine 30, meaning the coin retains strong central detail with moderate wear across the high points. Liberty’s facial features, hairlines, and the cotton and wheat details in her cap are still bold and distinct, though with smoothness on the highest areas. On the reverse, the eagle’s wings, chest, and leg feathers are clear but lightly worn. The overmintmark should still be visible with the naked eye or under light magnification, showing the intriguing overlapping of the mintmarks. The coin's surfaces are expected to show consistent wear with no major damage, though some light abrasions, circulation marks, or toning are to be expected at this grade level. The coin may have a soft silver-gray color with original toning or mild patina common to circulated Morgan Dollars.
The PCGS certification adds credibility and authenticity to this piece, confirming that it is a true O/CC variety and that it meets professional grading standards. PCGS is one of the most respected third-party grading services in the world, and coins certified by them are widely accepted in the numismatic marketplace. In particular, the authentication of varieties such as this one is crucial, as distinguishing true O/CC examples from altered coins or fakes requires experience and advanced diagnostic tools. Having this coin encapsulated by PCGS ensures that collectors can purchase with confidence, knowing they are acquiring a genuine and correctly attributed piece.
From a historical standpoint, this coin bridges two eras of U.S. Mint history. The Carson City Mint, established during the silver boom of the 19th century, was synonymous with frontier-era coinage and silver from the Comstock Lode. Its closure in 1893 marked the end of an era, but the reuse of its dies in 1900 allowed its legacy to live on—albeit subtly—in the Morgan Dollar series. The New Orleans Mint, which struck this coin, had resumed production in the late 1870s and continued issuing Morgan Dollars until the program ended in 1904. The overmintmark is thus a rare, physical reminder of the resourceful practices and overlapping timelines of two storied mints.
Collectors of Morgan Dollar varieties—especially those focused on VAMs (Van Allen–Mallis varieties)—consider the 1900-O/CC a must-have for any advanced set. While Mint State examples carry significant premiums, coins in VF30 like this one are much more accessible, offering the same historical interest and diagnostic features without the high cost. For those collecting by mintmark, by error variety, or simply building a comprehensive Morgan Dollar set, this coin offers a unique and desirable addition. Its well-preserved details, certified authenticity, and fascinating backstory make it an appealing choice for a wide range of collectors.
In conclusion, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1900-O/CC VF30 PCGS is a compelling and historically significant coin that combines the intrigue of a mint error with the rugged charm of a well-circulated piece. With its clearly visible overmintmark, respectable detail, and verified grade and authenticity, it stands out as one of the most interesting Morgan Dollar varieties. It tells a unique story of the U.S. Mint’s ingenuity and economy during a pivotal era and offers collectors the chance to own a tangible piece of that history. Whether valued for its variety status, mint origin, or its enduring aesthetic, this 1900-O/CC Morgan is a standout coin in any collection of classic American silver dollars.