1887 Morgan Silver Dollar NGC MS-63 | Historic American Coin

The 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar in NGC MS-63 condition represents one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in American numismatic history. This exceptional piece combines historical significance, artistic merit, and investment value in a single beautiful specimen. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time investor in rare coins, the 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar offers both numismatic appeal and tangible precious metal content.

About the Morgan Silver Dollar

The Morgan Silver Dollar series, named after its designer George T. Morgan, stands as one of the most beloved coin series in United States history. First minted in 1878 and continuing through 1904, then resuming briefly in 1921, these silver dollars captured a unique era of American prosperity and westward expansion. The 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar exemplifies the craftsmanship and design excellence that made this series treasured by collectors for over a century.

Each Morgan Dollar was struck in 90% pure silver with 10% copper, making it not only a numismatic treasure but also a valuable holding of precious metals. The combination of historical importance and intrinsic silver value makes the 1887 Morgan Dollar a dual-benefit investment for collectors and investors alike.

NGC MS-63 Grading Explained

The NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) MS-63 grade indicates that this 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar is in Mint State condition with choice quality. This grading means the coin exhibits only light surface marks visible under magnification, while maintaining the original luster and eye appeal characteristic of newly minted coins. MS-63 represents an excellent choice for collectors seeking quality without the premium prices associated with higher grades like MS-64 or MS-65.

The NGC certification provides independent, third-party authentication and grading, offering peace of mind that your investment is accurately assessed and professionally preserved in a protective holder. This certification is recognized and respected throughout the numismatic industry and enhances both the coin's credibility and market value.

Coin Specifications

• Coin Type: Morgan Silver Dollar
• Year of Minting: 1887
• Mint Mark: Varies by example (Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, Denver, Carson City)
• Designer: George T. Morgan
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Weight: 26.73 grams
• Diameter: 38.1 millimeters
• Thickness: Approximately 2.4 millimeters
• Face Value: One Dollar ($1.00 USD)
• Obverse Design: Lady Liberty facing left, with "LIBERTY" and the year of mintage
• Reverse Design: Majestic eagle with shield, arrows, and olive branch
• Grading Company: NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
• Condition Grade: MS-63 (Mint State)
• Edge: Reeded
• Mintage: Year and mint mark specific; 1887 was a significant production year

Historical Significance of the 1887 Morgan Dollar

The year 1887 falls within the heart of the Morgan Dollar series' most prolific production years. This period represented a transformative time in American economic history, characterized by industrial growth, expansion into western territories, and the development of new silver mining operations throughout the American West. The Morgan Dollar served as the primary circulating currency for commerce in these frontier regions, making it integral to the nation's economic development.

During 1887, the United States Mint facilities at Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, Denver (marked with a "D"), and Carson City (marked with a "CC") all produced Morgan Dollars, with varying quantities depending on the facility. Each mint's output contributes to the overall rarity and collectibility of coins from that specific year and location.

The Morgan Dollar was named after its designer, George T. Morgan, who created both the obverse and reverse designs that remain instantly recognizable to numismatists today. Morgan's artistic vision captured the spirit of America during this era—Lady Liberty represented the nation's ideals of freedom, while the powerful eagle on the reverse symbolized strength and patriotic values.

Design and Artistic Elements

The obverse of the 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar features Lady Liberty in profile, facing left, with the word "LIBERTY" inscribed above her and the date "1887" positioned below. Liberty wears a coronet and is surrounded by a laurel wreath, emphasizing themes of achievement and honor. The design's elegance and detail exemplify late 19th-century numismatic artistry.

The reverse displays a majestic eagle with wings spread wide, clutching an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other—representing America's desire for peace coupled with its readiness for defense. Above the eagle appears the text "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," while "ONE DOLLAR" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" are positioned below and around the design. The eagle's powerful stance and detailed feather work showcase Morgan's exceptional sculptural abilities.

Collecting Morgan Silver Dollars

The 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar is a cornerstone piece for many serious collectors. The MS-63 grade represents an excellent entry point for those building a comprehensive Morgan Dollar collection, offering substantial eye appeal and historical authenticity without requiring the significant investment necessary for higher grades.

Collectors often pursue Morgan Dollars by year and mint mark, working to complete a full set across all production facilities. The 1887 date is particularly popular among collectors due to its historical significance and the substantial number produced, which makes finding examples across various grades more achievable than many other dates.

Investment and Precious Metals Value

Beyond its numismatic value as a collectible coin, the 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar contains nearly three-quarters of an ounce of pure silver. This intrinsic metal content provides a foundational value floor, meaning your investment benefits from both numismatic appreciation and precious metals market dynamics. As silver prices fluctuate, your coin maintains value through its precious metal composition.

The combination of numismatic rarity, historical appeal, and precious metal content makes Morgan Dollars particularly attractive to investors seeking diversification beyond traditional stocks and bonds. Many investment portfolios include rare coins and bullion as hedge assets against economic uncertainty and inflation.

Preservation and Storage

The NGC MS-63 certification comes with professional encapsulation that protects your coin from environmental damage, moisture, and oxidation. The protective holder should be stored in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Many collectors utilize safe deposit boxes, home safes, or professional vault storage to ensure the security and preservation of their numismatic investments.

Proper handling and storage are essential to maintaining the coin's condition and value. Always hold coins by their edges, avoid touching the face surfaces, and never attempt to clean or restore an authenticated coin, as such actions will significantly diminish its value.

Why Choose an 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar in MS-63 Condition?

MS-63 represents the "Goldilocks zone" for Morgan Dollar collectors—offering excellent visual appeal and authentic historical presentation at a more accessible price point than higher grades. Unlike lower grades that may show significant wear and marks, MS-63 coins retain the lustrous, nearly pristine appearance that makes Morgan Dollars so visually stunning.

The NGC certification provides confidence in the coin's authenticity and grade, protecting your investment and ensuring accurate assessment of the coin's characteristics. Whether you're starting a collection or adding to an existing one, a certified 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar in MS-63 condition represents a smart, tangible investment in American numismatic history.

Start Your Collection Today

The 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar NGC MS-63 awaits the discerning collector and investor. This beautiful, historically significant coin represents a connection to America's past while offering tangible value and investment potential for the future. Secure your piece of American numismatic history today.