The 1890-O Morgan Silver Dollar graded PCI MS-62 represents a desirable New Orleans Mint example of one of America's most beloved silver coins. Struck during the final decade of the 19th century, this historic Morgan Dollar carries both numismatic significance and substantial bullion value, making it a favorite among collectors and investors alike. The PCI MS-62 grade indicates a coin that displays attractive mint luster with relatively clean surfaces for the assigned grade, showing only light marks consistent with its age and circulation history.

Morgan Silver Dollars, designed by George T. Morgan, were minted from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921. The 1890-O edition was produced at the historic New Orleans Mint, one of only three mints that struck these iconic coins. The "O" mintmark, located below the wreath on the reverse, identifies this coin as having been struck in Louisiana. These coins were originally produced to meet the demand created by the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which required the U.S. government to purchase large quantities of silver and convert it into coinage.

Each 1890-O Morgan Silver Dollar contains .77344 ounces of pure silver, offering both historical appeal and intrinsic bullion value. The coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse, portrayed with a Phrygian cap and surrounded by the inscriptions "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and the date 1890. The reverse displays a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, holding arrows and an olive branch, encircled by the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR."

Coin Specifications

• Year: 1890
• Mint: New Orleans (O Mintmark)
• Denomination: One Dollar
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Actual Silver Weight: .77344 Troy Ounces
• Diameter: 38.1 mm
• Weight: 26.73 grams
• Edge: Reeded
• Designer: George T. Morgan
• Grade: PCI MS-62
• Grading Service: PCI (Philatelic Certification Institute)
• Condition: Uncirculated with moderate bag marks typical of the grade

Historical Significance

The Morgan Silver Dollar series emerged following the Coinage Act of 1873, which had eliminated the standard silver dollar. Intense lobbying by silver mining interests in the western United States led to the passage of the Bland-Allison Act in 1878, mandating the purchase of silver for coinage. The New Orleans Mint, which had been closed since the Civil War, was reopened specifically to help meet this new demand for silver dollars.

The 1890-O Morgan Dollar was produced in substantial quantities, with a mintage of 11,875,000 coins. Despite this relatively high mintage, finding examples in attractive uncirculated condition has become increasingly challenging over the decades. Many coins from this issue suffered from heavy bag marks during storage and transport in canvas bags, making well-preserved specimens like this PCI MS-62 particularly desirable to collectors.

The Morgan Dollar remains one of the most collected coins in American numismatics. Its large size, beautiful design, and rich history have captivated generations of collectors. The 1890-O issue offers collectors an opportunity to own a coin struck at one of America's most fascinating mints during an important period in U.S. monetary history.

Why Collectors Seek the 1890-O Morgan Silver Dollar

This PCI-certified MS-62 example offers several advantages for both novice and experienced collectors. The MS-62 grade represents an excellent entry point into uncirculated Morgan Dollars, providing strong eye appeal without the premium commanded by higher grades. The PCI holder protects the coin while offering third-party authentication and grading that gives buyers confidence in their purchase.

The coin's .77344 troy ounces of pure silver content ensures it will always maintain intrinsic metal value, while its numismatic attributes provide potential for appreciation. Whether you're building a date-and-mintmark set of Morgan Dollars, starting a type collection, or simply seeking a tangible piece of American history with bullion value, this 1890-O Morgan Silver Dollar represents an outstanding choice.

Each coin has been carefully examined and graded by PCI, a respected name in the numismatic community. The MS-62 grade indicates a coin that retains its original mint luster with only moderate surface marks. Many collectors particularly appreciate the distinctive "cartwheel" luster characteristic of Morgan Dollars, which remains visible even at this grade level.

Owning an 1890-O Morgan Silver Dollar means possessing a genuine piece of American history. From its origins in the silver mines of the West to its production at the historic New Orleans Mint, this coin tells the story of a nation expanding, industrializing, and establishing itself as a major economic power on the world stage. Its beautiful design continues to be celebrated more than 130 years after it was first struck.