1888-O S$1

Description

1888-O Morgan Dollar, PCGS MS-66. This exceptional 1888-O Morgan dollar represents one of the finest examples of this historically significant New Orleans Mint issue. Graded PCGS MS-66 (Certificate #55908130), this coin displays the quality and eye appeal that distinguishes it among the thousands of this date that have been certified. The piece exhibits the characteristic features of high-grade 1888-O dollars, with attractive luster and surfaces that command attention in the marketplace. The 1888-O holds a unique place in Morgan dollar collecting history. With a substantial mintage of 12,150,000 coins, this issue became notably plentiful when hundreds of thousands—possibly over a million—were released from Treasury vaults between 1962 and 1964, with additional quantities emerging from storage in the 1950s. Despite this availability in lower Mint State grades (MS-60 to MS-62), coins grading MS-65 and above become notably scarcer. Current population data indicates approximately 413 examples have been certified by PCGS, with only 68 graded higher than this specimen, underscoring the rarity at the MS-66 level. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, this coin weighs 26.73 grams and measures 38.1mm in diameter with a reeded edge. The 1888-O is renowned among specialists for its variable striking quality—approximately 80-90% of examples exhibit light striking at the centers—making sharply struck specimens particularly desirable. The issue is also notable for producing an exceptional number of prooflike coins, with deep mirror cameos among the most frequently encountered in the entire Morgan series. This MS-66 example represents a significant acquisition opportunity for collectors seeking a high-grade representative of this important New Orleans issue.