O Mint Mark Appraisal

1896 Morgan Silver Dollar

The item appears to be a United States Morgan Silver Dollar, specifically from the year 1896, as indicated by the clear '1896' date at the bottom of the obverse. The coin features the classic design by George T. Morgan, depicting a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty. Her hair is intricately detailed with curls and is adorned with a cap bearing the word 'LIBERTY' and elements that appear to be cotton and wheat. Above her head, the motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' is visible, partially obscured but discernible. The rim of the coin is reeded, and the area surrounding Liberty's bust is encircled by a ring of stars, although the exact count is difficult to ascertain from the image. The coin exhibits a metallic silver-gray color, consistent with its composition as a silver dollar. In terms of condition, the coin shows signs of circulation and wear, particularly on the higher points of Liberty's design, such as her cheek and the crest of her hair, which have lost some definition. There is a visible patina and toning across the surface, which is typical for aged silver coins. No immediate severe damage like large scratches, dents, or significant rim damage is apparent, but finer details appear softened. The overall surface seems to have some light scratching or rub marks consistent with handling over time. No mint mark is clearly visible, which for an 1896 coin would typically be located at the bottom of the reverse above the 'DOLLAR' denomination, but we are only seeing the obverse. The absence of a mint mark would signify it was minted in Philadelphia. The craftsmanship is typical of U.S. Mint coinage of the late 19th century.