1882 Morgan Silver Dollar Appraisal
Category: Coin
Description
The item is a United States 1882 Morgan Silver Dollar. The coin is circular and appears to be made of silver alloy, consistent with the stated '90% Silver' on the coin holder. The obverse side, though not fully visible, would typically depict a profile portrait of Lady Liberty. The reverse side, clearly visible in the image, features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch. Above the eagle is the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR". Below the eagle is the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST". The perimeter of the coin features a reeded edge. The coin is housed within a white paper coin holder with a clear plastic window, designed for protection and storage. Handwritten in purple ink on the holder is "1882", "Morgan Silver Dollar", and "90% Silver". The coin exhibits some visible wear consistent with circulation or handling over time, particularly on the raised details of the eagle’s feathers and the surrounding legends. There may also be some toning or patina present on the silver surface. The holder itself shows minor signs of handling, including a couple of staple holes. The overall condition of the coin appears to be in a circulated state, not uncirculated or proof. The craftsmanship is that of a U.S. Mint product from the late 19th century, a period known for mass production of coinage.
Appraisal Report
Based on my examination of the images provided, this is a United States 1882 Morgan Silver Dollar. The coin appears to be authentic, displaying design elements, inscriptions, and dimensions consistent with U.S. Mint products from that era. However, determining a precise grade from images alone is challenging. The coin exhibits visible wear on the high points, such as the eagle's breast feathers and the details of Lady Liberty's hair (obverse not fully shown but assumed based on reverse wear). This suggests a circulated condition, likely in the Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (XF) range. The 1882 issue from the Philadelphia mint (no mint mark) is a very common date in the Morgan series, with a mintage of over 11 million. Consequently, its value is closely tied to its silver content and its condition, rather than rarity. The market for common-date Morgan dollars is stable, with strong demand from collectors and silver investors. The primary value driver for this specific coin is its state of preservation. Full authentication requires in-person examination to verify weight, specific gravity, and to inspect for microscopic evidence of cleaning or alteration, which cannot be conclusively determined from a photograph.
Appraisal Value
$35 - $50