1899 S$1

Description

# 1899 Morgan Dollar, Philadelphia Mint, PCGS MS-66. The 1899 Morgan dollar represents one of the most historically significant dates in the entire series, distinguished by its remarkably low mintage of just 330,000 circulation strikes. This Philadelphia Mint issue has long captivated collectors and investors alike, as few things in numismatics prove more compelling than a genuinely scarce production figure. The present example, certified by PCGS as MS-66, represents an exceptional survivor from this important date. ## Historical and Numismatic Significance. The 1899 stands as a semi-scarce date with a fascinating market history. From its mintage through the early twentieth century, the 1899 was recognized as a major rarity, with very few examples released into circulation. Beginning in the early 1950s and continuing through the early 1960s, significant hoards emerged—particularly from Las Vegas sources—yielding an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 Mint State coins. The Treasury dispersals of 1962-1964 brought additional examples to light from Montana, California, and Nevada. Despite these releases, the 1899 never achieved common status and remains genuinely scarce in higher grades. In circulated condition, the 1899 ranks among the top dozen most elusive coins in the Morgan dollar series, with only an estimated 6,000 to 12,000 examples surviving in worn grades. E.S. Thresher, a prominent numismatist, reported in 1925 that despite searching since 1919, he had been unable to locate a circulated example. In Mint State, the 1899 is more readily available, though most survivors reside in lower ranges. The present MS-66 example significantly exceeds typical availability, with PCGS population data indicating only 148 examples graded finer than this specimen across the entire population of 399 total certified coins. ## Technical Details and Condition. This Morgan dollar exhibits the standard specifications for the series: 90% silver and 10% copper composition, weighing 26.73 grams with a diameter of 38.1 millimeters and reeded edge. The coin was designed by George T. Morgan and represents