Heritage’s June 13 Premier Session auction features an exceptional selection of coins from the Citizen Bold collection, including some highly sought-after Morgan silver dollars. The collection is particularly notable for its rare and high-grade specimens, such as the 1893-S Morgan dollar, a coin that has become a symbol of pride for collectors due to its rarity and exceptional condition. Other highlights of the auction include rare New Orleans Mint issues, Proof Morgan dollars, and unique examples with amazing eye appeal. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout pieces.
| Coin | Grade | Mintage | Key Features | Previous Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1893-S Morgan Dollar | MS-63 | 100,000 | Rare, with sea-green, jade-gray, and amber toning; minor marks on Liberty’s neck | $444,000 (January Platinum Night) |
| 1886-O Morgan Dollar | MS-65 | 10,710,000 | Bold strike, vibrant mint luster, minimal surface marks | $168,000 (2022 auction) |
| 1896-O Morgan Dollar | MS-65 | N/A (scarce) | Exceptional luster and eye appeal, one of only three MS-65 at NGC | $94,000 (previous sale) |
| 1895 Proof Morgan Dollar | Proof 65 Cameo | N/A (Proof-only) | Known as the “King of Morgan dollars,” with sea-green and cerulean-blue toning | $84,000 (2021 auction) |
| 1921 Proof Morgan Dollar | Proof 65 | N/A (low mintage) | Chapman Proof, several die markers, with vibrant appearance | $75,000 (2020 auction) |
Rare and Valuable Morgan Dollars
1893-S Morgan Dollar (MS-63)
The 1893-S Morgan dollar is one of the most highly regarded coins in the Citizen Bold collection. Graded Mint State 63 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin is extremely rare with only 100,000 originally minted. However, fewer than 100 of these coins are known to exist in Mint State grades, making it a true collector’s gem.
- Key Features:
- Lightly marked surfaces with stunning sea-green, jade-gray, lavender-gray, and amber toning.
- Brilliant white circle around the star 2 and minor roller marks on Liberty’s neck, serving as pedigree markers.
- Last sold for $444,000 at Heritage’s January Platinum Night session, showcasing its high market value.
New Orleans Mint Rarities
The Citizen Bold collection also features rare Morgan dollars from the New Orleans Mint, which are often found in lower grades but are highly prized in top grades.
1886-O Morgan Dollar (MS-65)
- Mintage: 10,710,000
- Grade: MS-65 (one of only six in this grade)
- Key Features:
- Bold strike with vibrant mint luster and minimal surface marks.
- This coin stands out due to its exceptional overall eye appeal and lack of the typical insipid mint luster and surface marks that plague most 1886-O dollars.
- Previous sales for similar graded examples ranged from $156,000 to $168,000.
1896-O Morgan Dollar (MS-65)
- Key Features:
- Typically found in lower grades, with most examples being MS-63 or lower.
- The offered MS-65 example is one of only three graded at NGC, with none finer.
- Sold for $94,000 at auction over a decade ago, highlighting its rarity in top grades.
Coveted Proof Morgan Dollars
The Citizen Bold collection includes some stunning Proof Morgan dollars, which are highly coveted by collectors due to their exceptional quality and rarity.
1895 Proof Morgan Dollar (Proof 65 Cameo)
- Key Features:
- Known as the “King of Morgan Dollars,” this coin is particularly desirable due to the absence of business strikes in 1895.
- The Proof 65 Cameo grade, with vibrant sea-green and cerulean-blue toning, makes it a standout piece.
- The coin is also known for its deeply reflective fields and frosted devices, which are enhanced by the Cameo designation.
- Previously sold for $84,000 in 2021, further solidifying its place as a top-tier coin.
1921 Proof Morgan Dollar (Proof 65)
- Key Features:
- Known as the “Chapman Proof,” this coin was struck by request of dealer Henry Chapman, who asked the Philadelphia Mint to produce around 30 such coins.
- It has several distinctive die markers, making it a rare find among 1921 Proof Morgan dollars.
- Sold for $75,000 in 2020 at Heritage’s Platinum Night session, showcasing its value among collectors.
Conclusion: The Appeal of Rare Morgan Dollars
The Citizen Bold collection features some of the most desirable Morgan dollars available in the market, ranging from rare high-grade coins like the 1893-S to Proof issues that have become legends in numismatics. The exceptional quality of these coins, along with their rarity, has made them highly sought-after by collectors and investors alike. For those who appreciate the history and craftsmanship behind these iconic coins, this auction offers a unique opportunity to acquire some of the best examples in the world.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1893-S Morgan Dollar so valuable?
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is highly valuable because it is rare, with only 100,000 coins minted. Of those, fewer than 100 are known to exist in high-quality grades like Mint State 63, making it one of the most sought-after Morgan dollars among collectors.
2. Why is the 1895 Proof Morgan Dollar called the ‘King’ of Morgan Dollars?
The 1895 Proof Morgan Dollar is considered the “King” because it is the only year in which no business strikes were made for this coin, meaning it was only available in proof format. This rarity, along with its stunning aesthetic appeal, contributes to its high value and popularity.
3. How is the condition of a coin graded, and why does it matter?
Coin grading is a system that measures the quality and preservation of a coin. For example, an MS-63 grade means the coin is in mint condition with minor imperfections. Higher grades like MS-65 or Proof 65 signify better preservation and fewer flaws, making the coin more valuable. A higher grade often correlates with a higher price.
4. What are some key features to look for in high-quality Morgan Dollars?
High-quality Morgan Dollars, like those in the Citizen Bold collection, feature features such as vibrant luster, strong strikes, minimal surface marks, and distinctive toning. These factors contribute to the coin’s eye appeal and overall value.
5. Why are New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollars considered rare in high grades?
Morgan Dollars struck at the New Orleans Mint, particularly the 1886-O and 1896-O issues, were often poorly produced, with weak strikes and poor luster. As a result, only a few examples have survived in higher grades, making them rare and valuable for collectors.