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A fabulous example of the key date and most famous of the Lincoln series cents - she fits nicely into our Cents and Sensibility complete set of cents in First Generation PCGS Rattler holders - The definitive rattler Pop report shows a total of 196 reaching MS64RB with 114 higher in MS65 and 3 more reaching a census topping MS66RB.
Had been searching for this coin for over 9 years, to no avail - and my Holder Analytics research had determined a very low probability that she still existed in a rattler holder - you can imagine my surprise and delight upon finding her in a case at the Long Beach Coin show. She is strong for the grade with an overall eye appeal above average for similar coins. It's her overall extreme rarity in her first generation 1.2 holder that sends the value off the charts completely. I have only been able to locate a picture of one coin graded higher in a Rattler (last seen on May 27th, 2004 at a Heritage auction)
Had been searching for this coin for over 9 years, to no avail - and my Holder Analytics research had determined a very low probability that she still existed in a rattler holder - you can imagine my surprise and delight upon finding her in a case at the Long Beach Coin show. She is strong for the grade with an overall eye appeal above average for similar coins. It's her overall extreme rarity in her first generation 1.2 holder that sends the value off the charts completely. I have only been able to locate a picture of one coin graded higher in a Rattler (last seen on May 27th, 2004 at a Heritage auction)
Nice strong even strike for this first year Morgan Dollar with plenty of original luster shinning through. The obverse is almost completely blast white with a hint of crescent toning from the lower left rim just below the stars traveling below and past the inaugural date of 1878 - graded a lofty MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" holder as are all of the coins in this date set. These holders were used during the first three years of operation at PCGS from 1986 through September-ish 1989. According to a PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 44 - 1878-S coins in the same grade and only 1 coin graded higher at 67.
Nice strong even strike for this first year Morgan Dollar with plenty of original luster shinning through. The obverse is almost completely blast white with a hint of crescent toning from the lower left rim just below the stars traveling below and past the inaugural date of 1878 - graded a lofty MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" holder as are all of the coins in this date set. These holders were used during the first three years of operation at PCGS from 1986 through September-ish 1989. According to a PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 44 - 1878-S coins in the same grade and only 1 coin graded higher at 67.
Even though high grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare. This coin is a super nice blast white CC of the plain die variety, conservatively graded (in my opinion). When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their were 75 coins graded higher than this coin at 64 at MS64 and 11 at MS65 - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 58 in MS64 and 23 in MS65 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot. - in fact after 35 more years of grading - I have only seen two coins still in a Rattler holder MS63 - both with her CAC approval proudly acknowledging her quality.
Even though high grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare. This coin is a super nice blast white CC of the plain die variety, conservatively graded (in my opinion). When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their were 75 coins graded higher than this coin at 64 at MS64 and 11 at MS65 - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 58 in MS64 and 23 in MS65 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot. - in fact after 35 more years of grading - I have only seen two coins still in a Rattler holder MS63 - both with her CAC approval proudly acknowledging her quality.
Even though high grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare. This coin is breathtakingly close to a DMPL designation and conservatively graded (in my opinion) by at least one point. When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their was only 1 PL coin graded higher than this coin at MS64PL- my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 2 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners at 64PL - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot. - in fact after 35 more years of grading the current population of coins graded higher in PL is around 30 with a lone MS64+ at the top - One can only imagine what this coin would grade today - especially with her CAC approval proudly acknowledging her quality.
Even though high grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare. This coin is breathtakingly close to a DMPL designation and conservatively graded (in my opinion) by at least one point. When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their was only 1 PL coin graded higher than this coin at MS64PL- my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 2 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners at 64PL - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot. - in fact after 35 more years of grading the current population of coins graded higher in PL is around 30 with a lone MS64+ at the top - One can only imagine what this coin would grade today - especially with her CAC approval proudly acknowledging her quality.
Another well struck coin from the San Francisco mint with plenty of original luster shinning and completely blast white with no toning -also graded a lofty MS66 by PCGS and housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" holder - this coin shows strong signs of Proof Like strike, especially strong on the reverse, indicating that the coin was struck fairly early in the life of the dies. This coin also displays the green bean seal of approval from CAC proclaiming the coin to be in the higher tier for the grade with surfaces that pass the CAC review test. According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 1013 - 1879-S coins in the same grade with 127 coins graded in 67 and 10 all the way up to MS68. In 7 years of searching though - I have not been able to locate any of these higher grades still in these original holders.
Another well struck coin from the San Francisco mint with plenty of original luster shinning and completely blast white with no toning -also graded a lofty MS66 by PCGS and housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" holder - this coin shows strong signs of Proof Like strike, especially strong on the reverse, indicating that the coin was struck fairly early in the life of the dies. This coin also displays the green bean seal of approval from CAC proclaiming the coin to be in the higher tier for the grade with surfaces that pass the CAC review test. According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 1013 - 1879-S coins in the same grade with 127 coins graded in 67 and 10 all the way up to MS68. In 7 years of searching though - I have not been able to locate any of these higher grades still in these original holders.
Hard to believe after 7 years of searching, that this upgrade would show up just prior to publishing the book Real American Treasure. This coin is extremely well struck on both the obverse and reverse - with deeply mirrored field surfaces (I estimate a full 12" + reflectivity) milky smooth with no distracting marks whatsoever commonly seen in deeply mirrored fields and liberty's portrait equally frosty throughout also completely mark free - creating a super desirable cameo appearance - This may the most perfect Morgan dollar I have ever owned - The reverse is just as equal in appearance to the Obverse albeit with slightly less reflectivity (I estimate mirror reflectivity at 4-6") - why PCGS didn't at least PL her is beyond me - This coin may also benefit from an executive review by CAC to reconsider her for a gold sticker. I have seen Morgan's in 68 and 69 that do not have the eye appeal that this coin does - This coin has me re-thinking an ending to one of the chapters in the book - all in a good way! Coins like this put the collector bug back into anyone that gets the opportunity to hold her - I can't believe how giddy I am on this one!
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Hard to believe after 7 years of searching, that this upgrade would show up just prior to publishing the book Real American Treasure. This coin is extremely well struck on both the obverse and reverse - with deeply mirrored field surfaces (I estimate a full 12" + reflectivity) milky smooth with no distracting marks whatsoever commonly seen in deeply mirrored fields and liberty's portrait equally frosty throughout also completely mark free - creating a super desirable cameo appearance - This may the most perfect Morgan dollar I have ever owned - The reverse is just as equal in appearance to the Obverse albeit with slightly less reflectivity (I estimate mirror reflectivity at 4-6") - why PCGS didn't at least PL her is beyond me - This coin may also benefit from an executive review by CAC to reconsider her for a gold sticker. I have seen Morgan's in 68 and 69 that do not have the eye appeal that this coin does - This coin has me re-thinking an ending to one of the chapters in the book - all in a good way! Coins like this put the collector bug back into anyone that gets the opportunity to hold her - I can't believe how giddy I am on this one!
High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - semi key dates in high grades of GEM 65 and up are rarer still. Now finding one with fantastic color toning and CAC approval just took things to a whole new level with this coin. When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their where 17 coins graded higher than this coin - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 81 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot.
High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - semi key dates in high grades of GEM 65 and up are rarer still. Now finding one with fantastic color toning and CAC approval just took things to a whole new level with this coin. When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their where 17 coins graded higher than this coin - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 81 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot.
High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - semi key dates in high grades of GEM 65 and up are rarer still. This blast white 1880-CC is a Morgan Dollar collectors dream - nice high quality with CAC approval backing that up . When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their where 17 coins graded higher than this coin - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 81 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot.
High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders are very scarce to begin with - semi key dates in high grades of GEM 65 and up are rarer still. This blast white 1880-CC is a Morgan Dollar collectors dream - nice high quality with CAC approval backing that up . When PCGS moved on from the Rattlers their where 17 coins graded higher than this coin - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 81 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin quite possibly a top pop coin to boot.
When it comes to High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders - This much rarer variety of the 80-CC as a Reverse of 78 - grades of GEM 65 and up are extremely rarer. This is the only MS65 coin we have ever seen. The PCGS "Rattler" population report shows only 2 coins graded higher than this coin as MS66's - my Holder Analytic research successfully uncovered 10 coins graded MS66 and 21 - MS65's no longer in their original rattler skins, due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin most assuredly a top pop with a very high chance at being the very last one still in her gen 1.2 1st generation holder making her a MAJOR rattler Lone Top Pop....
When it comes to High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders - This much rarer variety of the 80-CC as a Reverse of 78 - grades of GEM 65 and up are extremely rarer. This is the only MS65 coin we have ever seen. The PCGS "Rattler" population report shows only 2 coins graded higher than this coin as MS66's - my Holder Analytic research successfully uncovered 10 coins graded MS66 and 21 - MS65's no longer in their original rattler skins, due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin most assuredly a top pop with a very high chance at being the very last one still in her gen 1.2 1st generation holder making her a MAJOR rattler Lone Top Pop....
This San Francisco mint Morgan is our first of four MS67 graded coins. She is has plenty of luster delicately covered by iridescent toning on both the obverse and reverse with hints of golds, blues and greens that pop as you rotate the coin in your hand. At the super gem grade of MS67 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she is the first of four similarly grade Morgan's in this date set. - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 11 - 1880-S coins in the same grade with a mere 4 coins graded higher in 68. Making her virtually un-improvable.
This San Francisco mint Morgan is our first of four MS67 graded coins. She is has plenty of luster delicately covered by iridescent toning on both the obverse and reverse with hints of golds, blues and greens that pop as you rotate the coin in your hand. At the super gem grade of MS67 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she is the first of four similarly grade Morgan's in this date set. - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 11 - 1880-S coins in the same grade with a mere 4 coins graded higher in 68. Making her virtually un-improvable.
This semi key 1881-CC - Still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin - graded MS65 with CAC approval is a highly sought after GEM as the very few coins out there that also grade 65 have been stickered by CAC - According to the holy grail of Rattler population reports PCGS had graded 74 coins in MS66, 3 coins in MS67 - I have never seen or been shown one in a rattler higher than MS65 and as of this writing I have not completed my Partial Holder Analytic research has already located 6 MS66 coins and 1 coin in a crazy monster MS68 not in their original holders - If you have one better please let me know.
This semi key 1881-CC - Still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin - graded MS65 with CAC approval is a highly sought after GEM as the very few coins out there that also grade 65 have been stickered by CAC - According to the holy grail of Rattler population reports PCGS had graded 74 coins in MS66, 3 coins in MS67 - I have never seen or been shown one in a rattler higher than MS65 and as of this writing I have not completed my Partial Holder Analytic research has already located 6 MS66 coins and 1 coin in a crazy monster MS68 not in their original holders - If you have one better please let me know.
Continuing with the San Francisco mint, this coin is our second of four MS67 graded coins. Also fully covered in deep rich bronze toning on both the obverse and reverse still with hints of golds, blues and greens - but this one adds lavender to the mix. Also at the super gem grade of MS67 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder and displaying the seal of approval passing grade by CAC - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 239 - 1881-S coins in the same grade with 9 coins remarkably graded higher in 68 and a lone coin sitting at the top in MS69 - I was fortunate enough to see a picture of this lone MS69 at a coin show in Baltimore by the proud owner himself.
Continuing with the San Francisco mint, this coin is our second of four MS67 graded coins. Also fully covered in deep rich bronze toning on both the obverse and reverse still with hints of golds, blues and greens - but this one adds lavender to the mix. Also at the super gem grade of MS67 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder and displaying the seal of approval passing grade by CAC - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were only 239 - 1881-S coins in the same grade with 9 coins remarkably graded higher in 68 and a lone coin sitting at the top in MS69 - I was fortunate enough to see a picture of this lone MS69 at a coin show in Baltimore by the proud owner himself.
When it comes to super High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders, this latest upgrade to the set reaches the lofty goal of a blast white MS66. She is so rare that my research had already basically ruled out the possibility that any of the original quantity of 33 MS66's were even left in their original rattler skins. I was blown away by a visit to my table (531) at Long Beach last week by a young dealer who had just won this coin at auction - an auction that neither myself nor any of my fellow vintage holder enthusiasts even saw as the coin was not in any of the congruent Old Holder auctions that we all were watching - I was even more delighted to give him a healthy profit on his win to bring her home to this set. The holy grail of Rattler population reports shows only 1 coin graded higher than this coin at MS67 and my Holder Analytic research had already located 11 coins no longer in their original rattler skins now encapsulated as MS67's - making this coin almost assuredly another top pop still in her original 1st generation Rattler holder.
When it comes to super High grade CC dollars still in their first generation 1.2 holder rattler holders, this latest upgrade to the set reaches the lofty goal of a blast white MS66. She is so rare that my research had already basically ruled out the possibility that any of the original quantity of 33 MS66's were even left in their original rattler skins. I was blown away by a visit to my table (531) at Long Beach last week by a young dealer who had just won this coin at auction - an auction that neither myself nor any of my fellow vintage holder enthusiasts even saw as the coin was not in any of the congruent Old Holder auctions that we all were watching - I was even more delighted to give him a healthy profit on his win to bring her home to this set. The holy grail of Rattler population reports shows only 1 coin graded higher than this coin at MS67 and my Holder Analytic research had already located 11 coins no longer in their original rattler skins now encapsulated as MS67's - making this coin almost assuredly another top pop still in her original 1st generation Rattler holder.
Our 5th Morgan is also from the San Francisco mint, this coin. The obverse is 99% blast white with just a slight hint of rim toning on both the obverse and reverse - again very well struck as the San Francisco mint is known for and presenting at the high grade of MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" also proudly displaying the seal of approval by CAC - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 737 - 1882-S coins in the same grade with 65 coins graded higher in 67 and 2 outstanding coins in MS68.
Our 5th Morgan is also from the San Francisco mint, this coin. The obverse is 99% blast white with just a slight hint of rim toning on both the obverse and reverse - again very well struck as the San Francisco mint is known for and presenting at the high grade of MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" also proudly displaying the seal of approval by CAC - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 737 - 1882-S coins in the same grade with 65 coins graded higher in 67 and 2 outstanding coins in MS68.
With this Morgan we journey inland east of San Francisco just past the famous Comstock Load silver mine down the hill into the Wild West Iconic Carson City mint (still there today and open as a museum) I am very fortunate to have acquired coins from all 5 mints to complete this 28 coin date set - but my clear favorite is the Carson City mint. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and fairly well struck save an area of softness around liberty's ear the obverse and reverse - still laying claim to the high grade of MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 91 - 1883-CC coins in the same grade with only 9 coins graded higher in 67.
With this Morgan we journey inland east of San Francisco just past the famous Comstock Load silver mine down the hill into the Wild West Iconic Carson City mint (still there today and open as a museum) I am very fortunate to have acquired coins from all 5 mints to complete this 28 coin date set - but my clear favorite is the Carson City mint. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and fairly well struck save an area of softness around liberty's ear the obverse and reverse - still laying claim to the high grade of MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 91 - 1883-CC coins in the same grade with only 9 coins graded higher in 67.
With this Morgan we journey inland east of San Francisco just past the famous Comstock Load silver mine down the hill into the Wild West Iconic Carson City mint (still there today and open as a museum) I am very fortunate to have acquired coins from all 5 mints to complete this 28 coin date set - but my clear favorite is the Carson City mint. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and fairly well struck save an area of softness around liberty's ear the obverse and reverse - still laying claim to the high grade of MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 91 - 1883-CC coins in the same grade with only 9 coins graded higher in 67.
With this Morgan we journey inland east of San Francisco just past the famous Comstock Load silver mine down the hill into the Wild West Iconic Carson City mint (still there today and open as a museum) I am very fortunate to have acquired coins from all 5 mints to complete this 28 coin date set - but my clear favorite is the Carson City mint. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and fairly well struck save an area of softness around liberty's ear the obverse and reverse - still laying claim to the high grade of MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 91 - 1883-CC coins in the same grade with only 9 coins graded higher in 67.
Even though you could easily argue that every coin in this set is a bonified monster coin - there are still a few that rise up above the rest and this coin hits a homerun at most all of the measurement points. She is a super High grade CC dollar still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin - ,she is PL rare for such a high grade, and she is absolutely dripping with gorgeous liquid color that looks like it would pour off the coin if removed from her holder - add to that the CAC approval and she just has it all. The holy grail of Rattler population reports shows only 2 coins graded higher than this coin both MS67's and my Holder Analytic research has already located 3 coins no longer in their original rattler skins now encapsulated as MS67's - making this coin, reasonably, another top pop still in her original 1st generation Rattler holder - though I did locate a picture of an MS67PL coin in a rattler last seen January 12th, 2005 also at a heritage auction - so she could still be out there in the wild - if any of you have her please come show her to me.
Even though you could easily argue that every coin in this set is a bonified monster coin - there are still a few that rise up above the rest and this coin hits a homerun at most all of the measurement points. She is a super High grade CC dollar still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin - ,she is PL rare for such a high grade, and she is absolutely dripping with gorgeous liquid color that looks like it would pour off the coin if removed from her holder - add to that the CAC approval and she just has it all. The holy grail of Rattler population reports shows only 2 coins graded higher than this coin both MS67's and my Holder Analytic research has already located 3 coins no longer in their original rattler skins now encapsulated as MS67's - making this coin, reasonably, another top pop still in her original 1st generation Rattler holder - though I did locate a picture of an MS67PL coin in a rattler last seen January 12th, 2005 also at a heritage auction - so she could still be out there in the wild - if any of you have her please come show her to me.
This coin is another beautiful Proof like (PL) addition to the set - Still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin and under graded (in my opinion). According to the holy grail of Rattler population reports PCGS only graded 2 coins graded higher than this coin both MS66PL's -Based on my Holder Analytic research we find 10 coins graded MS66PL to highlight just how rare she is as well - making her also a Top Pop coin still in a rattler holder - I can tell you that I was only able to locate one higher graded coin still in a Rattler holder, a lone MS66 (though not a PL) with a CAC sticker that was just purchased out of a Great Collections auction in 2020 - if you were the lucky winner please come show her to me.
This coin is another beautiful Proof like (PL) addition to the set - Still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin and under graded (in my opinion). According to the holy grail of Rattler population reports PCGS only graded 2 coins graded higher than this coin both MS66PL's -Based on my Holder Analytic research we find 10 coins graded MS66PL to highlight just how rare she is as well - making her also a Top Pop coin still in a rattler holder - I can tell you that I was only able to locate one higher graded coin still in a Rattler holder, a lone MS66 (though not a PL) with a CAC sticker that was just purchased out of a Great Collections auction in 2020 - if you were the lucky winner please come show her to me.
This is our first coin from the New Orleans mint.. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and very typically struck with a generous area of softness around liberty's ear as this mint was not one to care much about the quality of coins - the reverse carries a much tighter strike of which we added a second photo straightened and zoomed in a bit to display a nice tight full feathered eagle in all her glory - still this coin is graded MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 81 - 1884-O coins in the same grade with absolutely NONE graded higher - Making this coin our first Top Population Coin and thus not improvable!
This is our first coin from the New Orleans mint.. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and very typically struck with a generous area of softness around liberty's ear as this mint was not one to care much about the quality of coins - the reverse carries a much tighter strike of which we added a second photo straightened and zoomed in a bit to display a nice tight full feathered eagle in all her glory - still this coin is graded MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 81 - 1884-O coins in the same grade with absolutely NONE graded higher - Making this coin our first Top Population Coin and thus not improvable!
This is our first coin from the New Orleans mint.. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and very typically struck with a generous area of softness around liberty's ear as this mint was not one to care much about the quality of coins - the reverse carries a much tighter strike of which we added a second photo straightened and zoomed in a bit to display a nice tight full feathered eagle in all her glory - still this coin is graded MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 81 - 1884-O coins in the same grade with absolutely NONE graded higher - Making this coin our first Top Population Coin and thus not improvable!
This semi key 1885-CC - Still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin - graded MS65 with CAC approval is a highly sought after GEM as the very few coins out there that also grade 65 have not been stickered by CAC - According to the holy grail of Rattler population reports PCGS had graded 37 coins in MS66, 4 coins in MS67, and 1 monster super gem MS68 - I have never seen or been shown one in a rattler higher than MS65 and as of this writing I have not completed my Holder Analytic research to highlight just how rare she is as well - but again if you have one please come show her to me. A lone MS65DMPL coin did sell at auction August 14th, 2013 but the certification number comes up invalid now at both PCGS and no longer shows up in the current CAC report....
This semi key 1885-CC - Still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler skin - graded MS65 with CAC approval is a highly sought after GEM as the very few coins out there that also grade 65 have not been stickered by CAC - According to the holy grail of Rattler population reports PCGS had graded 37 coins in MS66, 4 coins in MS67, and 1 monster super gem MS68 - I have never seen or been shown one in a rattler higher than MS65 and as of this writing I have not completed my Holder Analytic research to highlight just how rare she is as well - but again if you have one please come show her to me. A lone MS65DMPL coin did sell at auction August 14th, 2013 but the certification number comes up invalid now at both PCGS and no longer shows up in the current CAC report....
Our second coin from the New Orleans mint presents an uncharacteristically strong strike on both the obverse and reverse - with a generous amount of toning through most of Lady Liberty's hair almost like she colored it on purpose - the reverse is blast white with feathers so strongly struck they appear almost pluckable. - Again graded MS66 by PCGS housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" while displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 305 - 1885-O coins in the same grade with 8 graded higher at MS67.
Our second coin from the New Orleans mint presents an uncharacteristically strong strike on both the obverse and reverse - with a generous amount of toning through most of Lady Liberty's hair almost like she colored it on purpose - the reverse is blast white with feathers so strongly struck they appear almost pluckable. - Again graded MS66 by PCGS housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" while displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 305 - 1885-O coins in the same grade with 8 graded higher at MS67.
With this coin we finally get to the Philadelphia mint for our third of four MS67 graded coins in this set. She displays full luster highlighted by complete shotgun toning all around the rim of both the obverse and reverse indicating she most likely spent a great deal of time in a cardboard album. She is very well struck as this mint is known for and at the super gem grade of MS67 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she sits in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with only 15 - 1886 coins in the same grade and None higher, Making her the second Top Pop in the set and thus un-improvable.
With this coin we finally get to the Philadelphia mint for our third of four MS67 graded coins in this set. She displays full luster highlighted by complete shotgun toning all around the rim of both the obverse and reverse indicating she most likely spent a great deal of time in a cardboard album. She is very well struck as this mint is known for and at the super gem grade of MS67 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she sits in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with only 15 - 1886 coins in the same grade and None higher, Making her the second Top Pop in the set and thus un-improvable.
As we continue our run through the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan shows terrific cartwheel luster highlighted with dollops of toning on the obverse and the reverse blast white. She is very well struck and CAC approved - at the gem grade of MS66 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she sits in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 91 - 1887 coins sharing the same grade, with only 1 graded higher at MS67. Making her virtually un-improvable.
As we continue our run through the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan shows terrific cartwheel luster highlighted with dollops of toning on the obverse and the reverse blast white. She is very well struck and CAC approved - at the gem grade of MS66 by PCGS and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she sits in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 91 - 1887 coins sharing the same grade, with only 1 graded higher at MS67. Making her virtually un-improvable.
Completing a trio of Philadelphia mint coins. This Morgan shows terrific cartwheel luster on her blast white obverse and her reverse is nicely toned with some majestic hues of color popping out. She is also very well struck and CAC approved, but my favorite add to the story of this coin is where I found her - She came to me from Northern Nevada Coins out of their Carson City store literally right across the street from the Carson City mint - My favorite store across the street from my favorite mint - run by one of my Mentors in the business Alan Rowe - If you have not had the opportunity to visit his store in Carson City it is worth every penny to do so and I highly recommend it - Thank you Northern Nevada Coins - at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 584 - 1888 coins sharing the same grade, with only 19 graded higher at MS66 and a lone coin above that at MS67, she would be very tough to improve upon.
Completing a trio of Philadelphia mint coins. This Morgan shows terrific cartwheel luster on her blast white obverse and her reverse is nicely toned with some majestic hues of color popping out. She is also very well struck and CAC approved, but my favorite add to the story of this coin is where I found her - She came to me from Northern Nevada Coins out of their Carson City store literally right across the street from the Carson City mint - My favorite store across the street from my favorite mint - run by one of my Mentors in the business Alan Rowe - If you have not had the opportunity to visit his store in Carson City it is worth every penny to do so and I highly recommend it - Thank you Northern Nevada Coins - at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - and housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 584 - 1888 coins sharing the same grade, with only 19 graded higher at MS66 and a lone coin above that at MS67, she would be very tough to improve upon.
These pictures do not do this coin justice - after 5 long years on the quest to complete a First Generation "Rattler" set of Morgan dollars with a weighted average of MS65 - this beautiful GEM finally came my way - This Morgan returns us to San Francisco and is actually a semi-key date coin because of that. She is blast white and chock full of cartwheel luster on both her extremely well struck obverse and reverse . She is graded gem MS65 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 82 - 1889-S coins in the same grade with only 5 graded higher at MS66 - which is huge for a semi-key date coin - making her also most likely not improvable!
These pictures do not do this coin justice - after 5 long years on the quest to complete a First Generation "Rattler" set of Morgan dollars with a weighted average of MS65 - this beautiful GEM finally came my way - This Morgan returns us to San Francisco and is actually a semi-key date coin because of that. She is blast white and chock full of cartwheel luster on both her extremely well struck obverse and reverse . She is graded gem MS65 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 82 - 1889-S coins in the same grade with only 5 graded higher at MS66 - which is huge for a semi-key date coin - making her also most likely not improvable!
This 1890-CC is coin that I have bought and sold twice now just to bring her into this set - She is very much a conditional rarity Still in her first generation 1.2 holder skin - graded MS64 with CAC approval is another highly sought after GEM - According to the Rattler population report PCGS had graded 22 coins in MS65 and 2 monsters in MS66 - I have never been shown one in a rattler higher than MS64 - My Holder Analytic research so far has already revealed 42 coins graded MS65 with 2 more graded MS66 to highlight just how rare she is as well and might just be a Top Pop- though I have seen 1 MS65 coin that sold at a Heritage auction August 10th, 2007 - If you have her please reach out and show her to me.
This 1890-CC is coin that I have bought and sold twice now just to bring her into this set - She is very much a conditional rarity Still in her first generation 1.2 holder skin - graded MS64 with CAC approval is another highly sought after GEM - According to the Rattler population report PCGS had graded 22 coins in MS65 and 2 monsters in MS66 - I have never been shown one in a rattler higher than MS64 - My Holder Analytic research so far has already revealed 42 coins graded MS65 with 2 more graded MS66 to highlight just how rare she is as well and might just be a Top Pop- though I have seen 1 MS65 coin that sold at a Heritage auction August 10th, 2007 - If you have her please reach out and show her to me.
Our next coin takes us back to the New Orleans mint for another uncharacteristically well struck coin - Blast white on both the obverse and reverse with tons of cartwheel luster and a scattering of light contact marks relevant to the assigned grade of MS65 by PCGS housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" while displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 53 - 1890-O coins in the same grade with a scant 2 coins graded higher at MS66 - making this another virtually non-improvable Morgan from the New Orleans mint still housed in a first generation holder. She is also the first coin with the professional photography done by PCGS arranged by the previous owner of this coin no doubt.
Our next coin takes us back to the New Orleans mint for another uncharacteristically well struck coin - Blast white on both the obverse and reverse with tons of cartwheel luster and a scattering of light contact marks relevant to the assigned grade of MS65 by PCGS housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" while displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 53 - 1890-O coins in the same grade with a scant 2 coins graded higher at MS66 - making this another virtually non-improvable Morgan from the New Orleans mint still housed in a first generation holder. She is also the first coin with the professional photography done by PCGS arranged by the previous owner of this coin no doubt.
Our second Morgan from the Carson City mint - This coin represents one of the key date years very difficult to locate in very high grades. In fact early on in our quest to locate and complete a mint state date set of Morgan dollars, many a coin dealer told us that we would not be able to locate any high grade examples of key date years due to regrading, as the allure and price commanded by key date coins in higher grades was just too tempting to leave any coin housed in it's original first generation holder - still at the respectable grade of MS64 by PCGS and housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" we were very happy to dispel this myth for this year 1891 and for all of the key date years as evident in the set - we posted a nice close up of the reverse to show that the coin is the "spitting eagle" variety clearly visible just below the eagle's beak - a fun variety indeed - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 354- 1891-CC coins in the same grade, 54 graded MS65 and four magnificent coins graded higher in 66. Several years ago I assembled a complete Carson City registry set called Route 66 and was lucky enough to locate a freshly graded MS66 at a show in the Los Angeles convention center - giving me hope that there are still amazing treasures out there just waiting to be rediscovered.
Our second Morgan from the Carson City mint - This coin represents one of the key date years very difficult to locate in very high grades. In fact early on in our quest to locate and complete a mint state date set of Morgan dollars, many a coin dealer told us that we would not be able to locate any high grade examples of key date years due to regrading, as the allure and price commanded by key date coins in higher grades was just too tempting to leave any coin housed in it's original first generation holder - still at the respectable grade of MS64 by PCGS and housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" we were very happy to dispel this myth for this year 1891 and for all of the key date years as evident in the set - we posted a nice close up of the reverse to show that the coin is the "spitting eagle" variety clearly visible just below the eagle's beak - a fun variety indeed - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 354- 1891-CC coins in the same grade, 54 graded MS65 and four magnificent coins graded higher in 66. Several years ago I assembled a complete Carson City registry set called Route 66 and was lucky enough to locate a freshly graded MS66 at a show in the Los Angeles convention center - giving me hope that there are still amazing treasures out there just waiting to be rediscovered.
The next monster PL coin in this set is this high grade 1891-CC dollar still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler close and already the ultimate highest rarity coin for the year and PL designation. -. Semi keys like Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare to begin with. This coin, is also conservatively graded (in my opinion) - has absolutely NO coins graded higher from the coveted rattler population report which showed 3 coins graded MS65PL - after more than 35 years of additional grading PCGS still only shows two coins graded higher 1 at MS66PL and 1 lone top MONSTER MS68PL .My Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 6 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners at 65PL and remarkably the MS68PL coin also no longer in her original rattler garb. - making this coin now most likely a LONE top pop coin still in a Rattler. - She is living proof that Numismatic Dreams really can come true!
The next monster PL coin in this set is this high grade 1891-CC dollar still in her first generation 1.2 holder rattler close and already the ultimate highest rarity coin for the year and PL designation. -. Semi keys like Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare to begin with. This coin, is also conservatively graded (in my opinion) - has absolutely NO coins graded higher from the coveted rattler population report which showed 3 coins graded MS65PL - after more than 35 years of additional grading PCGS still only shows two coins graded higher 1 at MS66PL and 1 lone top MONSTER MS68PL .My Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 6 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners at 65PL and remarkably the MS68PL coin also no longer in her original rattler garb. - making this coin now most likely a LONE top pop coin still in a Rattler. - She is living proof that Numismatic Dreams really can come true!
A tremendous find and an amazing coin, a true testament to the tighter grading standards of the early days. This coin maybe the next grade up, but because it is a top pop and one of only 35 graded as a 65 in a rattler holder with none finer as of 12/1/1989 - we suspect resistance to pull the 66 trigger due to the guarantee in place at the time would have been too risky - but grade her for yourself compared to the images below - either way this is one fantastic coin!
A tremendous find and an amazing coin, a true testament to the tighter grading standards of the early days. This coin maybe the next grade up, but because it is a top pop and one of only 35 graded as a 65 in a rattler holder with none finer as of 12/1/1989 - we suspect resistance to pull the 66 trigger due to the guarantee in place at the time would have been too risky - but grade her for yourself compared to the images below - either way this is one fantastic coin!
A tremendous find and an amazing coin, a true testament to the tighter grading standards of the early days. This coin maybe the next grade up, but because it is a top pop and one of only 35 graded as a 65 in a rattler holder with none finer as of 12/1/1989 - we suspect resistance to pull the 66 trigger due to the guarantee in place at the time would have been too risky - but grade her for yourself compared to the images below - either way this is one fantastic coin!
This 1892-CC is coin is also a relatively recent addition to this set - She too is a conditional rarity in her first generation 1.2 holder skin - a stunning blast white example graded MS64 with CAC approval, another highly sought after GEM - According to the Rattler population report PCGS had graded 32 coins in MS65 and 5 monsters in MS66 - - My Holder Analytic research so far has already revealed 47 coins graded MS65 with 6 more graded MS66 to highlight just how rare she is as well and might just be a Top Pop - Though I have seen two auctions for MS 65 rattler coins, 1 - MS65 coin that sold at a Heritage auction February 12th, 2000 and 1 - MS65 coin that also sold at Heritage February 22nd, 2018 though neither has been shown to me - If you have either of these please reach out and show them to me - I would appreciate it greatly.
This 1892-CC is coin is also a relatively recent addition to this set - She too is a conditional rarity in her first generation 1.2 holder skin - a stunning blast white example graded MS64 with CAC approval, another highly sought after GEM - According to the Rattler population report PCGS had graded 32 coins in MS65 and 5 monsters in MS66 - - My Holder Analytic research so far has already revealed 47 coins graded MS65 with 6 more graded MS66 to highlight just how rare she is as well and might just be a Top Pop - Though I have seen two auctions for MS 65 rattler coins, 1 - MS65 coin that sold at a Heritage auction February 12th, 2000 and 1 - MS65 coin that also sold at Heritage February 22nd, 2018 though neither has been shown to me - If you have either of these please reach out and show them to me - I would appreciate it greatly.
This 1892-CC is coin is also a relatively recent addition to this set - She too is a conditional rarity in her first generation 1.2 holder skin - a stunning blast white example graded MS64 with CAC approval, another highly sought after GEM - According to the Rattler population report PCGS had graded 32 coins in MS65 and 5 monsters in MS66 - - My Holder Analytic research so far has already revealed 47 coins graded MS65 with 6 more graded MS66 to highlight just how rare she is as well and might just be a Top Pop - Though I have seen two auctions for MS 65 rattler coins, 1 - MS65 coin that sold at a Heritage auction February 12th, 2000 and 1 - MS65 coin that also sold at Heritage February 22nd, 2018 though neither has been shown to me - If you have either of these please reach out and show them to me - I would appreciate it greatly.
From one key date year to the next - this Philadelphia minted Morgan also served to dispel the myth that there are no more key dates in First Generation holders, in fact she is the second coin I found of for this year upgrading our previous grade of MS63 into this very eye appealing Morgan with a terrific strike - blast white dripping with luster that cartwheels beautifully as you roll the coin in your hand - housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 140 - 1893 coins sharing the same grade, with only 17 graded higher all at MS65 - although she would be very tough to improve upon - I am still on the hunt for one of those MS65's if they still exist.
From one key date year to the next - this Philadelphia minted Morgan also served to dispel the myth that there are no more key dates in First Generation holders, in fact she is the second coin I found of for this year upgrading our previous grade of MS63 into this very eye appealing Morgan with a terrific strike - blast white dripping with luster that cartwheels beautifully as you roll the coin in your hand - housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 140 - 1893 coins sharing the same grade, with only 17 graded higher all at MS65 - although she would be very tough to improve upon - I am still on the hunt for one of those MS65's if they still exist.
Perfectly fitting to conclude this high grade CC dollars first generation 1.2 holder rattler set with the ultimate highest rarity coin. Remember Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare to begin with. This coin, as conservatively graded (in my opinion) as she is - still only has 2 coins graded higher after more than 35 years of additional grading.. At the end of the Rattler encapsulation era she was 1 of 2 coins graded 63PL with NONE finer - My Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 2 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners at 63PL - making this coin now a LONE top pop coin still in a Rattler. - in fact after 35 more years of grading the current population of coins graded higher in PL is only 2 . With all but one coin still housed in their original 1st generation "Rattler" holders this set represents an impossible numismatic accomplishment that truly honors the strong history, accuracy, integrity, and Market Making accomplishments of Professional Coin Grading Services! My hope is that sets like these will inspire the next generations of coin enthusiasts to join the hunt for every type of numismatic treasure that exists including Vintage Holders.
Perfectly fitting to conclude this high grade CC dollars first generation 1.2 holder rattler set with the ultimate highest rarity coin. Remember Key dates (UNDERSTANDABLY) are ballistically rare to begin with. This coin, as conservatively graded (in my opinion) as she is - still only has 2 coins graded higher after more than 35 years of additional grading.. At the end of the Rattler encapsulation era she was 1 of 2 coins graded 63PL with NONE finer - My Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 2 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners at 63PL - making this coin now a LONE top pop coin still in a Rattler. - in fact after 35 more years of grading the current population of coins graded higher in PL is only 2 . With all but one coin still housed in their original 1st generation "Rattler" holders this set represents an impossible numismatic accomplishment that truly honors the strong history, accuracy, integrity, and Market Making accomplishments of Professional Coin Grading Services! My hope is that sets like these will inspire the next generations of coin enthusiasts to join the hunt for every type of numismatic treasure that exists including Vintage Holders.
This next key date Morgan was acquired through a Heritage auction - here is how they described the coin - 1894-S $1 MS64 PCGS. VAM-1A. The "Worm Eye" variety with a "long vertical die gouge at eye front," as described by VAMWorld.com. A hint of butter-gold patina graces this lustrous better-date silver dollar. The cheek is remarkably smooth, though the eagle's right (facing) leg is abraded. The central strike is slightly soft. Certified in a first generation holder. Ex: Dallas Signature (Heritage, 12/2005), lot 2550, which realized $1,610.(Registry values: P6, N1793) (NGC ID# 255X, PCGS# 7232) - according to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 100 - 1894-S coins sharing the same grade, 25 graded at MS65, 2 more graded at MS66 and a lone coin above that at MS67 - I am hopeful still that one of these higher grade coins becomes available before I part with this amazing set.
This next key date Morgan was acquired through a Heritage auction - here is how they described the coin - 1894-S $1 MS64 PCGS. VAM-1A. The "Worm Eye" variety with a "long vertical die gouge at eye front," as described by VAMWorld.com. A hint of butter-gold patina graces this lustrous better-date silver dollar. The cheek is remarkably smooth, though the eagle's right (facing) leg is abraded. The central strike is slightly soft. Certified in a first generation holder. Ex: Dallas Signature (Heritage, 12/2005), lot 2550, which realized $1,610.(Registry values: P6, N1793) (NGC ID# 255X, PCGS# 7232) - according to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 100 - 1894-S coins sharing the same grade, 25 graded at MS65, 2 more graded at MS66 and a lone coin above that at MS67 - I am hopeful still that one of these higher grade coins becomes available before I part with this amazing set.
Head and shoulders above the rest of the coins in this set - this super Key Date Year Morgan is by itself an unbelievable sitting atop an unbelievable set! Some prevenance of her storied past travels through auctions - here she is listed with the Heritage Site when this coin was auctioned off December 11th, 2011 - “Elusive Gem 1895-S Morgan Dollar - First-Generation PCGS Holder - The 1895-S $1 MS65 PCGS. A handful of Morgan dollar issues show an unusual month-by-month mintage pattern, in which 100,000 pieces were struck consecutively. (The 1892-S issue, for example, saw that production in all 12 months, for a total of 1.2 million pieces.) According to the Guide Book of Morgan Dollars, such production from February to May in 1895 created the 1895-S Morgan dollar, today a well-established elusive issue and a condition rarity at the Gem level. The present piece has a delicately frosted, softly struck portrait under pale gray patina. The margins on each side are green-gold, and a few spots of charcoal are noted at the lower left reverse border. Housed in a first-generation holder.(Registry values: P8, N4719) (NGC ID# 255Z, PCGS# 7238)” Interestingly to date only two other 1895-S mint state coins in first generation holders have been sold by Heritage an MS62 in January 2006 and an MS61 in April 2008 – maybe even more telling of how rare this date is in an original holder, Heritage only lists one other sale of a Morgan bearing this lofty date as an 1895-O in AU58 in May of 2007. Which further confirmed my belief that this coin would not only be the pinnacle coin of our rattler date set, but that it may just be the pinnacle coin for any rattler Morgan dollar set. These thoughts also had me scared to think of what the price may ultimately settle on because of the unique rarity of this coin, and that is aside from the fact that the coin is gorgeous and appears to be a strong candidate for upgrade. With only 6 coins higher as of this writing 4 in 65+ and 2 66's - this coin is worth all the plus money and more! She resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with a mere 6 coins sharing the same grade, and surprisingly 1 outstanding coin graded higher at MS66 - with all my years of searching I highly doubt this MS66 coin is still housed in her 1st generation holder anymore - making this MS 65 also virtually un-improvable without sending her in for a regrade and re-holdering - which are the only options available at the time of this update.
Head and shoulders above the rest of the coins in this set - this super Key Date Year Morgan is by itself an unbelievable sitting atop an unbelievable set! Some prevenance of her storied past travels through auctions - here she is listed with the Heritage Site when this coin was auctioned off December 11th, 2011 - “Elusive Gem 1895-S Morgan Dollar - First-Generation PCGS Holder - The 1895-S $1 MS65 PCGS. A handful of Morgan dollar issues show an unusual month-by-month mintage pattern, in which 100,000 pieces were struck consecutively. (The 1892-S issue, for example, saw that production in all 12 months, for a total of 1.2 million pieces.) According to the Guide Book of Morgan Dollars, such production from February to May in 1895 created the 1895-S Morgan dollar, today a well-established elusive issue and a condition rarity at the Gem level. The present piece has a delicately frosted, softly struck portrait under pale gray patina. The margins on each side are green-gold, and a few spots of charcoal are noted at the lower left reverse border. Housed in a first-generation holder.(Registry values: P8, N4719) (NGC ID# 255Z, PCGS# 7238)” Interestingly to date only two other 1895-S mint state coins in first generation holders have been sold by Heritage an MS62 in January 2006 and an MS61 in April 2008 – maybe even more telling of how rare this date is in an original holder, Heritage only lists one other sale of a Morgan bearing this lofty date as an 1895-O in AU58 in May of 2007. Which further confirmed my belief that this coin would not only be the pinnacle coin of our rattler date set, but that it may just be the pinnacle coin for any rattler Morgan dollar set. These thoughts also had me scared to think of what the price may ultimately settle on because of the unique rarity of this coin, and that is aside from the fact that the coin is gorgeous and appears to be a strong candidate for upgrade. With only 6 coins higher as of this writing 4 in 65+ and 2 66's - this coin is worth all the plus money and more! She resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with a mere 6 coins sharing the same grade, and surprisingly 1 outstanding coin graded higher at MS66 - with all my years of searching I highly doubt this MS66 coin is still housed in her 1st generation holder anymore - making this MS 65 also virtually un-improvable without sending her in for a regrade and re-holdering - which are the only options available at the time of this update.
Head and shoulders above the rest of the coins in this set - this super Key Date Year Morgan is by itself an unbelievable sitting atop an unbelievable set! Some prevenance of her storied past travels through auctions - here she is listed with the Heritage Site when this coin was auctioned off December 11th, 2011 - “Elusive Gem 1895-S Morgan Dollar - First-Generation PCGS Holder - The 1895-S $1 MS65 PCGS. A handful of Morgan dollar issues show an unusual month-by-month mintage pattern, in which 100,000 pieces were struck consecutively. (The 1892-S issue, for example, saw that production in all 12 months, for a total of 1.2 million pieces.) According to the Guide Book of Morgan Dollars, such production from February to May in 1895 created the 1895-S Morgan dollar, today a well-established elusive issue and a condition rarity at the Gem level. The present piece has a delicately frosted, softly struck portrait under pale gray patina. The margins on each side are green-gold, and a few spots of charcoal are noted at the lower left reverse border. Housed in a first-generation holder.(Registry values: P8, N4719) (NGC ID# 255Z, PCGS# 7238)” Interestingly to date only two other 1895-S mint state coins in first generation holders have been sold by Heritage an MS62 in January 2006 and an MS61 in April 2008 – maybe even more telling of how rare this date is in an original holder, Heritage only lists one other sale of a Morgan bearing this lofty date as an 1895-O in AU58 in May of 2007. Which further confirmed my belief that this coin would not only be the pinnacle coin of our rattler date set, but that it may just be the pinnacle coin for any rattler Morgan dollar set. These thoughts also had me scared to think of what the price may ultimately settle on because of the unique rarity of this coin, and that is aside from the fact that the coin is gorgeous and appears to be a strong candidate for upgrade. With only 6 coins higher as of this writing 4 in 65+ and 2 66's - this coin is worth all the plus money and more! She resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with a mere 6 coins sharing the same grade, and surprisingly 1 outstanding coin graded higher at MS66 - with all my years of searching I highly doubt this MS66 coin is still housed in her 1st generation holder anymore - making this MS 65 also virtually un-improvable without sending her in for a regrade and re-holdering - which are the only options available at the time of this update.
Head and shoulders above the rest of the coins in this set - this super Key Date Year Morgan is by itself an unbelievable sitting atop an unbelievable set! Some prevenance of her storied past travels through auctions - here she is listed with the Heritage Site when this coin was auctioned off December 11th, 2011 - “Elusive Gem 1895-S Morgan Dollar - First-Generation PCGS Holder - The 1895-S $1 MS65 PCGS. A handful of Morgan dollar issues show an unusual month-by-month mintage pattern, in which 100,000 pieces were struck consecutively. (The 1892-S issue, for example, saw that production in all 12 months, for a total of 1.2 million pieces.) According to the Guide Book of Morgan Dollars, such production from February to May in 1895 created the 1895-S Morgan dollar, today a well-established elusive issue and a condition rarity at the Gem level. The present piece has a delicately frosted, softly struck portrait under pale gray patina. The margins on each side are green-gold, and a few spots of charcoal are noted at the lower left reverse border. Housed in a first-generation holder.(Registry values: P8, N4719) (NGC ID# 255Z, PCGS# 7238)” Interestingly to date only two other 1895-S mint state coins in first generation holders have been sold by Heritage an MS62 in January 2006 and an MS61 in April 2008 – maybe even more telling of how rare this date is in an original holder, Heritage only lists one other sale of a Morgan bearing this lofty date as an 1895-O in AU58 in May of 2007. Which further confirmed my belief that this coin would not only be the pinnacle coin of our rattler date set, but that it may just be the pinnacle coin for any rattler Morgan dollar set. These thoughts also had me scared to think of what the price may ultimately settle on because of the unique rarity of this coin, and that is aside from the fact that the coin is gorgeous and appears to be a strong candidate for upgrade. With only 6 coins higher as of this writing 4 in 65+ and 2 66's - this coin is worth all the plus money and more! She resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with a mere 6 coins sharing the same grade, and surprisingly 1 outstanding coin graded higher at MS66 - with all my years of searching I highly doubt this MS66 coin is still housed in her 1st generation holder anymore - making this MS 65 also virtually un-improvable without sending her in for a regrade and re-holdering - which are the only options available at the time of this update.
Coming back to the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan also shows terrific cartwheel luster on her blast white obverse and reverse. She too is very well struck, at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - and, of course, housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 589 - 1896 coins sharing the same grade, only 21 coins graded higher at MS66, she may be tough to improve upon - but not impossible.
Coming back to the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan also shows terrific cartwheel luster on her blast white obverse and reverse. She too is very well struck, at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - and, of course, housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 589 - 1896 coins sharing the same grade, only 21 coins graded higher at MS66, she may be tough to improve upon - but not impossible.
Although I consider the 1895-S the biggest coin in the set - the absolute conditional rarity of this super gem 1897-S may make her the absolute rarest Morgan of the bunch - as even 34 years later and counting, with the advent of + (plus) grading by PCGS - there are still only 11 coins graded higher at the time of this writing - September 2020. She was one of the few coins that came to me through Heritage's "Make an Offer" program - for which I am extremely grateful. As you can see by the pictures she displays quite a bit of patchwork toning on the obverse and is completely mottled with toning on the reverse - with coloration void of the beautiful hues you see on attractively toned coins. If ever there was a candidate to go through the conservation and re-grading route - this would be the coin. I have examined her meticulously under a loop for hours and cannot find even the slightest of tics, with deep rich luster just below the thinnest cloud of toning. If the purpose of this set was NOT to honor and celebrate these treasures in First Generation PCGS holders - I would have sent her in for a professional review long ago! Our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with a meager 5 - 1897-S coins sharing the same grade, with a single coin graded higher at MS68 - I believe there is absolutely NO-WAY this MS68 coin is still housed in a rattler holder - though she is fun to dream about.
Although I consider the 1895-S the biggest coin in the set - the absolute conditional rarity of this super gem 1897-S may make her the absolute rarest Morgan of the bunch - as even 34 years later and counting, with the advent of + (plus) grading by PCGS - there are still only 11 coins graded higher at the time of this writing - September 2020. She was one of the few coins that came to me through Heritage's "Make an Offer" program - for which I am extremely grateful. As you can see by the pictures she displays quite a bit of patchwork toning on the obverse and is completely mottled with toning on the reverse - with coloration void of the beautiful hues you see on attractively toned coins. If ever there was a candidate to go through the conservation and re-grading route - this would be the coin. I have examined her meticulously under a loop for hours and cannot find even the slightest of tics, with deep rich luster just below the thinnest cloud of toning. If the purpose of this set was NOT to honor and celebrate these treasures in First Generation PCGS holders - I would have sent her in for a professional review long ago! Our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with a meager 5 - 1897-S coins sharing the same grade, with a single coin graded higher at MS68 - I believe there is absolutely NO-WAY this MS68 coin is still housed in a rattler holder - though she is fun to dream about.
One of a few coins I found on E-bay the greatest equalizer site in the marketplace today. This New Orleans minted beauty - is a decent strike for an "O" mint with very appealing toning on both the obverse and reverse. This coin is graded MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 129 - 1898-O coins in the same grade with a scant 4 coins graded higher at MS67, again doubtful you could find one to upgrade this coin with.
One of a few coins I found on E-bay the greatest equalizer site in the marketplace today. This New Orleans minted beauty - is a decent strike for an "O" mint with very appealing toning on both the obverse and reverse. This coin is graded MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" again displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 129 - 1898-O coins in the same grade with a scant 4 coins graded higher at MS67, again doubtful you could find one to upgrade this coin with.
Another coin from the New Orleans mint.. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and struck again very uncharacteristically strong - still this coin is also graded MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" with the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 109 - 1899-O coins in the same grade with another meager 4 coins graded higher at MS67 - I like to believe that there may still be one housed in her original rattler casings.
Another coin from the New Orleans mint.. The obverse and reverse are both blast white and struck again very uncharacteristically strong - still this coin is also graded MS66 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" with the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 109 - 1899-O coins in the same grade with another meager 4 coins graded higher at MS67 - I like to believe that there may still be one housed in her original rattler casings.
This coin upgraded the set for the first time in over a year and it was only due to the PL designation and the CAC certification - so not a bump in points, but certainly an upgrade in the look and quality of the coin. She too came from a Heritage auction and represents the sole example of a "PL" Proof Like designation currently in this Date set. She has an extremely well struck obverse - paired with a similarly struck reverse - her proof like surfaces accentuate very minimal bags marks enough to prevent her from a loftier grade (at least at the time) - still graded MS65PL by PCGS while still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" and displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were just 24 - 1900-O PL coins in the same grade with absolutely NONE graded higher - making this coin another Top Pop coin for the set and likewise unimprovable in her original housing.
This coin upgraded the set for the first time in over a year and it was only due to the PL designation and the CAC certification - so not a bump in points, but certainly an upgrade in the look and quality of the coin. She too came from a Heritage auction and represents the sole example of a "PL" Proof Like designation currently in this Date set. She has an extremely well struck obverse - paired with a similarly struck reverse - her proof like surfaces accentuate very minimal bags marks enough to prevent her from a loftier grade (at least at the time) - still graded MS65PL by PCGS while still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" and displaying the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were just 24 - 1900-O PL coins in the same grade with absolutely NONE graded higher - making this coin another Top Pop coin for the set and likewise unimprovable in her original housing.
Again from the New Orleans mint.. The obverse and reverse share a thin layer of cloudlike toning slightly masking the rich luster beneath and struck more typical of "O" minting with a softness above the ear - this coin is graded MS65 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" with the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 309 - 1901-O coins in the same grade, yet surprisingly with only 7 coins graded higher at MS66 - there may yet be one out there to snatch up if still in these old holders.
Again from the New Orleans mint.. The obverse and reverse share a thin layer of cloudlike toning slightly masking the rich luster beneath and struck more typical of "O" minting with a softness above the ear - this coin is graded MS65 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" with the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 309 - 1901-O coins in the same grade, yet surprisingly with only 7 coins graded higher at MS66 - there may yet be one out there to snatch up if still in these old holders.
Circling back to the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan also shows terrific cartwheel luster on her blast white obverse and reverse, with just the slightest of crescent toning on both sides. Also very well struck, at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - and, of course, housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 261 - 1896 coins sharing the same grade, 22 coins graded higher at MS66, and 5 coins graded above them at MS67. This is one coin that I am a bit surprised to have not located in one of these higher grades after 6 years of searching - she may be tough to improve upon - but again not impossible.
Circling back to the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan also shows terrific cartwheel luster on her blast white obverse and reverse, with just the slightest of crescent toning on both sides. Also very well struck, at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - and, of course, housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 261 - 1896 coins sharing the same grade, 22 coins graded higher at MS66, and 5 coins graded above them at MS67. This is one coin that I am a bit surprised to have not located in one of these higher grades after 6 years of searching - she may be tough to improve upon - but again not impossible.
Still at the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan is almost a full twin to her older sibling from 1902 - showing decent luster on her white obverse and reverse, with nicely more pronounced crescent toning highlighting both sides of the coin. She too is well struck, also at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 581 - 1896 coins sharing the same grade, 39 coins graded higher at MS66, and 1 coin atop graded at MS67. She is another coin that I am surprised to have not located in one of these higher grades after 6 years of searching - she may also be tough to improve upon - though not impossible.
Still at the Philadelphia mint. This Morgan is almost a full twin to her older sibling from 1902 - showing decent luster on her white obverse and reverse, with nicely more pronounced crescent toning highlighting both sides of the coin. She too is well struck, also at a grade of MS65 by PCGS with the green bean CAC approval sticker on her - housed in a gen 1.2 "Rattler" holder she resides in our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - with 581 - 1896 coins sharing the same grade, 39 coins graded higher at MS66, and 1 coin atop graded at MS67. She is another coin that I am surprised to have not located in one of these higher grades after 6 years of searching - she may also be tough to improve upon - though not impossible.
One last trip back to the New Orleans mint, for this last of the consecutively run dates of Morgan Dollar minting - She displays most blast white original surfaces on the obverse and reverse with decent cartwheel luster, also struck more typical of "O" minting with a softness above the ear - this coin is also graded MS65 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" with the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 1,512 - 1904-O coins in the same grade, with 48 coins graded higher at MS66, and another single coin graded above that at MS67 - I thought I would find one of the 66's early on in this quest - alas, it was not to be. This coin does represent the last of the coveted CAC approval ratings toping our set out at 19 out of 28 coins receiving the green bean or 68% an extreme testament to the both the quality and accuracy of grading with these coins during the first 3 years of PCGS - absolutely proving their are still good, high grade coins residing in these first year holders.
One last trip back to the New Orleans mint, for this last of the consecutively run dates of Morgan Dollar minting - She displays most blast white original surfaces on the obverse and reverse with decent cartwheel luster, also struck more typical of "O" minting with a softness above the ear - this coin is also graded MS65 by PCGS still housed proudly in a first generation 1.2 "Rattler" with the CAC green bean seal of approval - According to our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 1,512 - 1904-O coins in the same grade, with 48 coins graded higher at MS66, and another single coin graded above that at MS67 - I thought I would find one of the 66's early on in this quest - alas, it was not to be. This coin does represent the last of the coveted CAC approval ratings toping our set out at 19 out of 28 coins receiving the green bean or 68% an extreme testament to the both the quality and accuracy of grading with these coins during the first 3 years of PCGS - absolutely proving their are still good, high grade coins residing in these first year holders.
After the ramifications of the 1898 Act as quoted by the Numismatist "The Act of June 13, 1898, required that the U.S. Mint use up the remaining silver acquired under the Sherman Silver Purchase Act of 1890 into silver dollars. The last of this silver was used for this purpose during 1904, after which production of Morgan dollars ceased." ending production of the Morgan silver dollars consecutively in 1904 - and in response to the Pittman Act of 1918 "a United States federal law sponsored by Senator Key Pittman of Nevada and enacted on April 23, 1918. The act authorized the conversion of not exceeding 350,000,000 standard silver dollars into bullion and its sale, or use for subsidiary silver coinage.....1921 ushered in a new era of coinage seemingly needed by the masses - in a hurry to meet this legal requirement the mints dusted off the old Morgan dollar dies and changed the date for one final partial year of minting the Morgan Silver dollar. Also new to the minting of silver dollars came the Denver mint - which had started operations in 1906 - bringing us this final Morgan Dollar - and the only Morgan to bear the "D" mint mark - she is basically blast white on both the obverse and reverse albeit with a bit of haze throughout - and her strike is OK though a bit flat - She further completes our last minor goal of having a representative coin from each of the five mints that produced Morgan dollars - Philadelphia, San Francisco, New Orleans, Carson City and finally Denver. One last check with our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 251 - 1921-D coins in the same grade, with only 15 coins graded higher at MS66. She is fitting and desirable end to this great coin quest!
After the ramifications of the 1898 Act as quoted by the Numismatist "The Act of June 13, 1898, required that the U.S. Mint use up the remaining silver acquired under the Sherman Silver Purchase Act of 1890 into silver dollars. The last of this silver was used for this purpose during 1904, after which production of Morgan dollars ceased." ending production of the Morgan silver dollars consecutively in 1904 - and in response to the Pittman Act of 1918 "a United States federal law sponsored by Senator Key Pittman of Nevada and enacted on April 23, 1918. The act authorized the conversion of not exceeding 350,000,000 standard silver dollars into bullion and its sale, or use for subsidiary silver coinage.....1921 ushered in a new era of coinage seemingly needed by the masses - in a hurry to meet this legal requirement the mints dusted off the old Morgan dollar dies and changed the date for one final partial year of minting the Morgan Silver dollar. Also new to the minting of silver dollars came the Denver mint - which had started operations in 1906 - bringing us this final Morgan Dollar - and the only Morgan to bear the "D" mint mark - she is basically blast white on both the obverse and reverse albeit with a bit of haze throughout - and her strike is OK though a bit flat - She further completes our last minor goal of having a representative coin from each of the five mints that produced Morgan dollars - Philadelphia, San Francisco, New Orleans, Carson City and finally Denver. One last check with our PCGS population report published December 1st, 1989 - there were 251 - 1921-D coins in the same grade, with only 15 coins graded higher at MS66. She is fitting and desirable end to this great coin quest!
Our second big coin of color - also a semi key date happens to be our only DMPL coin currently in the set. It can very tricky to capture color on top of dimple surfaces - she is a truly beautiful coin to roll around in hand and marvel at the various color combinations. PCGS population report on Rattlers showed that only 4 coins graded higher than this coin all as MS66 DMPL's - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 12 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin also extremely likely to be now a top pop still in a Rattler.
Our second big coin of color - also a semi key date happens to be our only DMPL coin currently in the set. It can very tricky to capture color on top of dimple surfaces - she is a truly beautiful coin to roll around in hand and marvel at the various color combinations. PCGS population report on Rattlers showed that only 4 coins graded higher than this coin all as MS66 DMPL's - my Holder Analytic research was able to uncover 12 coins no longer in their original rattler skins due to reconsideration/regrading by their owners - making this coin also extremely likely to be now a top pop still in a Rattler.
