1883-O Morgan Dollar
Guidelines for Collecting:
The 1883-O was produced in large quantities. The typical coin seen today is likely to have unsatisfactory luster and an unsatisfactory strike. Circulation strike quality ranges from quite flat at the center to a minority that offer needle sharp strikes. Luster ranges from medium frosty to dull and grainy. Some coins were made from worn-out dies past retirement age, and these show granularity and metal flow lines. Careful selection is advised.
Availability in Circulated Grades:
Always available in VF and EF with AU pieces a trifle more difficult to locate.
Availability in Mint State Grades:
There will be absolutely no problem finding a Mint State specimen, even MS-65 or finer. Look for a well-struck specimen with good luster. Remember that certified holders are silent on these important aspects.
Availability in Proof:
It is thought that perhaps a dozen “branch mint” Proofs of the date were produced though a case could be made for a prooflike designation for those pieces. Rare and important to advanced Morgan dollar aficionados. A few examples of the date have been certified as “Proof” by the leading grading services.
The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the June 2018 Baltimore Auction, where it realized $9,000.
1883-O Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights
 PCGS MS-67+, CAC Sold for $9,000 View Lot 1484 |  PCGS MS-67+ Sold for $7,800 View Lot 7379 |  PCGS MS-66 DMPL, CAC Sold for $5,040 View Lot 363 |
