The 1887 S Morgan Silver Dollar is a prized specimen within the broader collection of Morgan Silver Dollars, a series cherished by collectors and historians for its beauty and historical significance. Minted at the San Francisco Mint, as denoted by the “S” mint mark, this coin is part of the Morgan Dollar series which ran from 1878 to 1921, and briefly in 1921.
Design and Artistry The 1887 S Morgan Silver Dollar features the classic design crafted by George T. Morgan, for whom the coin is named. The obverse showcases a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, modeled after teacher and philosophical writer Anna Willess Williams, who Morgan thought had a profile of classical beauty. The portrait is framed by the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and the year of minting at the bottom, with thirteen stars representing the original colonies encircling the rim.
The reverse features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings clutching both an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing America’s commitment to peace and readiness for conflict. Above the eagle, the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is prominently displayed in Gothic script. Surrounding this are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR,” along with the mint mark “S” positioned just above the denomination.
Material and Specifications The 1887 S Morgan Silver Dollar is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, adhering to the then-standard for U.S. silver coinage. It weighs 26.73 grams and measures 38.1 millimeters in diameter, featuring a reeded edge which is characteristic of the series.
Historical Context and Collectibility The year 1887 saw a substantial production of Morgan Dollars across multiple mints, but the San Francisco Mint’s output is particularly noted for its generally better strike and finer detail, making the 1887 S a favorite among collectors for its aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship.
The value of the 1887 S Morgan Silver Dollar can vary widely depending on its condition. Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition with minimal bag marks or wear are especially sought after and can fetch higher prices in the numismatic market. Even more common circulated coins hold value for their silver content and as pieces of American monetary history.
Legacy The Morgan Silver Dollar, and particularly the 1887 S variant, encapsulates a significant era in American history, reflecting the nation’s growth and the expansion of its monetary system in the post-Civil War era. Its enduring popularity among collectors is not only due to its intrinsic and historical value but also because of its role in a pivotal period of American economic development.
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