1896-O Morgan Dollar ($1)

The 1896-O Morgan Dollar is a challenging date to find in high grades, as the New Orleans Mint was notorious for weak strikes and poor quality control during this period. While the mintage was a healthy 4.9 million pieces, very few were preserved in near-mint condition.

This AU58 example, bearing CAC approval, is a remarkable survivor that sits right on the cusp of mint state. The surfaces retain strong mint luster with just a whisper of wear on the highest points. The strike is notably better than typical for the date, with crisp detail in Liberty's hair and the eagle's breast feathers. The pristine original surfaces display a lovely pearl-gray patina that gives this coin outstanding eye appeal.