1885 Morgan Dollar
Guidelines for Collecting:
Minted in enormous quantity at the Philadelphia Mint, 1885 Morgan dollars are quite common and generally available with varying degrees of eye appeal and quality. The striking is usually above average, and examples usually have a frosty luster, although grainy pieces exist. As for most varieties of Morgan dollars cherrypicking for quality costs no more and is strongly advised.
Availability in Circulated Grades:
Circulated coins are available at a mere pittance above “melt” value but Mint State coins are so prolific in the marketplace that very little attention is paid to circulated dollars of the date.
Availability in Mint State Grades:
Name your grade, MS-60 to 65, and it’s available with very little searching. MS-66 and finer coins also exist in sizable quantities for those interested in the ultra-gem grade range. Look for a nice sharp and lustrous MS-65 specimen for your cabinet.
Availability in Proof:
Proofs are typically well-struck with medium cameo contrast. Avoid pieces that have been dipped so many times that the mirror surfaces have dulled to gray. Patience will pay off when seeking Proofs of the date.
The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the February 2014 Americana Auction, where it realized $5,875.
1885 Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights
 NGC PF-68 Sold for $35,250 View Lot 10154 |  PCGS MS-67 DMPL Sold for $26,400 View Lot 9147 |  PCGS MS-67 DMPL Sold for $20,400 View Lot 2041 |
