Hey fellow collectors! Recently, I’ve been diving into my collection of 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollars, and I must say, the range of grades I’ve encountered has been quite the journey. I picked up a couple of these beauties at a local coin show, and I’ve been on the fence about their grading. One has a nice, strong strike but shows some signs of wear, while the other is almost uncirculated, making the comparison even more interesting.
I’m curious to hear about your experiences when it comes to grading these specific coins. I did some homework on PCGS and NGC grading standards, and it seems that the difference between an MS-62 and an MS-65 can significantly affect the value—sometimes by hundreds! As someone who loves both the historical aspect and investment potential of these coins, I’d love to know what grade you’ve found makes the most impact in your collections. What are some specific condition markers you look for when assessing the value?
Finally, have you guys ever felt surprised by the grades you received when submitting? I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts and any tips you may have on recognizing quality in this particular coin!
What conditions do you think are critical? Any hidden gems you’ve found at lower grades? Let’s share the wealth of knowledge!
Great topic, SilverSeeker91! The 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar is definitely a fascinating coin. In my experience, the impact of grading is substantial. When I submitted mine to PCGS last year, I was shocked to find out that my MS-64 graded coin was valued significantly higher than I anticipated. I mean, just a jump to MS-65 can often mean thousands of dollars!
- Look for strong strike details on the hair and the eagle’s feathers.
- Check for marks or blemishes, especially on the obverse.
If you’re considering investment, aim for
MS-63 or better. Those tend to be the sweet spot for collectors. I’d love to hear about your experiences too!
5 Likes
Thanks for sharing your insights, @CoinMaster99! It’s amazing how much a single grade can change the market value. I’m really interested in your take on the specifics—do you find that certain marks consistently lead to lower grades, even if the coin seems strong otherwise? I had one that was almost an MS-64 but had a tiny scratch on the cheek that brought it down to MS-62. So frustrating!
3 Likes
I agree with you both! Grading really is a game-changer. I recently acquired a pair of 1895-O Morgans that were lower grades (VF-30 and EF-40), but their pristine condition and detail really surprised me! It’s a reminder that not all low grades are bad. Check out this article on NGC’s site about grading standards—super helpful when assessing detail! Do you think investing in lower-graded coins can ever pay off in the long run?
4 Likes
Absolutely @NumismaticNerd! Sometimes those lower-grade coins are great finds, especially if they’re well-preserved. I’ve had my eye on a VF grade state that has some really interesting toning. I’ve read that toning can sometimes add value, especially if it’s unique. Have you considered that when assessing value? I’d love to hear more about your thoughts!
2 Likes
Personally, I think the 1895-O has some hidden gems at lower grades! I found a nice F-12 with amazing details that I paid very little for. Sometimes it’s just about the right collector appreciating what you have. Plus, don’t overlook how a good cleaning can affect it negatively—stick to natural patina! Have any of you had a coin cleaned that affected its value?
3 Likes
That’s a great point, CollectorDave! I haven’t cleaned my Morgans out of fear of ruining their value. I’ve read mixed thoughts on cleaning coins. It seems like a personal choice, but it’s an uneasy one. Do you have any tips for distinguishing polished coins from uncleaned ones?
1 Like
Good question, @SilverSeeker91! Recognizing polished coins can be tricky. Generally, polished coins will appear shiny or have a mirror-like finish, which differs from their original surfaces. Check for hairlines or whizzing—these can be indicators of cleaning. If you’re uncertain, always consult a third-party grading service like PCGS. They often highlight common pitfalls in their resources! Just remember, once cleaned, coins can lose their numismatic value significantly.
5 Likes
I find grading can be subjective, depending on who’s evaluating. The 1895-O has so many variables! Just this year, I sent in a coin that I felt was AU-58, but it came back as MS-61—definitely a nice surprise! What experiences have you guys had with unexpected grading results?
6 Likes
Wow, @TearsofJoy, that’s quite the upgrade! I’ve had a similar experience with one of my pieces from a local dealer. Thought it was an XF-40 but got an AU-53 instead. It definitely adds to the thrill of collecting! Has anyone ever submitted to multiple grading services just to see if the grades align?
4 Likes
I haven’t done that yet, @CoinMaster99, but I’m curious! It could be insightful to see how different companies rate the same coin. Maybe next time I have one I’m unsure about, I’ll try sending it in to both PCGS and NGC for comparison. What do you all think? Would it be worth the cost?
2 Likes