1895-S Morgan Silver Dollar. MS-65+ (PCGS). CMQ.An exceptionally smooth, visually appealing example of this conditionally challenged San Francisco Mint issue. Both sides are largely brilliant and highly lustrous, accented by tinges of golden-apricot iridescence that appear to drift toward the borders. An otherwise softly frosted finish yields to subtle semi-reflective tendencies in the fields as the surfaces dip into a light. Sharply to fully struck with eye appeal to spare.<p>A key date Morgan dollar in all grades, the 1895-S has a paltry mintage of just 400,000 pieces with only eight circulation strike issues of the type produced in more limited numbers. It was an issue of utility, and examples were fed into circulation gradually for years after striking. While a few bags did become available directly from the San Francisco Mint in the 1950s, this never amounted to any significant quantity and examples remained overall scarce in the market.<p>The 1895-S represents a major hurdle for the advanced Morgan dollar collector not only because of its overall elusiveness, but also because it is a formidable condition rarity. Writing in the 1993 book <em>Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States: A Complete Encyclopedia</em>, Q. David Bowers states: "Ask a silver dollar dealer this question: What two Morgan dollar issues usually are seen heavily bagmarked? The answer is apt to be: 1893-CC and 1895-S." The offered example is remarkably well preserved and would serve as a highlight in an advanced Morgan dollar cabinet. Just four examples have been certified finer by PCGS, making this a particularly desirable find for advanced Set Registry participants.PCGS# 7238. NGC ID: 255Z.PCGS Population: 7; 4 finer in this category (MS-67 finest).
