1923 Peace Silver Dollar

This is a 1923 Peace Silver Dollar, a United States currency coin composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. The coin features the profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse, wearing a radiant crown, with the word 'LIBERTY' curved above and the date '1923' below. The physical diameter of a standard issue is 38.1 mm with a weight of 26.73 grams. The coin is currently housed in a standard 2x2 cardboard and Mylar flip, which is secured by four staples. Hand-written notations on the cardboard holder include '1923', 'BU' (indicating Brilliant Uncirculated condition as assessed by a previous owner), an asking price of '$48.00', and the acronym 'WTF'. The coin displays a metallic silver luster typical of the series, though visible through the plastic are some surface scuffs and minor contact marks consistent with bag wear. No mint mark is immediately visible on the reverse through the flip, which would indicate it was minted in Philadelphia. The Peace Dollar was designed by Anthony de Francisci to commemorate the end of World War I and represents a high point in American numismatic art deco style.

I have completed a visual assessment of this 1923 Philadelphia-minted Peace Silver Dollar. Based on the provided imagery, the coin exhibits the characteristic design of Anthony de Francisci and presents a strong metallic luster consistent with the surfaces of an uncirculated specimen. The notation 'BU' on the flip suggests a Brilliant Uncirculated state; however, my observation of visible surface scuffs and minor contact marks suggests a grade in the MS-60 to MS-62 range. Common bag marks on the cheek of Liberty and in the open fields are typical for this high-mintage year (30.8 million struck). Market demand for Peace Dollars remains consistently strong among silver stackers and numismatists alike. The current value is heavily influenced by the 'melt value' of its 0.77344 oz silver content, plus a premium for its numismatic condition. While the holder lists a price of $48.00, current auction realized prices for raw, mid-range uncirculated 1923 dollars generally fall between $35 and $45. Higher premiums are reserved for coins graded MS-64 or above by third-party services like PCGS or NGC. Critically, this appraisal is based on photographic evidence only. Photographs can hide hairline scratches, 'cleaning' marks (which significantly reduce value), or subtle surface alterations. For a definitive authentication and valuation, I would require an in-person physical inspection to verify weight, diameter, and specific gravity. Scientific testing (such as XRF analysis) would confirm the 90% silver composition, and high-magnification microscopy would be necessary to rule out sophisticated counterfeits or added mint marks.