Grading the 1885-O Morgan ‘Belly Button’: The Difference Between $10 and $1,000

Introduction: The Mystery of the ‘Belly Button’ Morgan

Condition is everything in numismatics. When examining an 1885-O Morgan dollar with the distinctive ‘belly button’ feature, the difference between a $10 cull and a $1,000 gem specimen often comes down to understanding the subtle nuances of wear patterns, luster quality, and strike characteristics. This particular variety presents unique grading challenges that require a trained eye and knowledge of both standard Morgan dollar grading and the specific anomalies that make this die marriage special.

Historical Context and Die State Analysis

The 1885-O Morgan dollar represents one of the most common New Orleans Mint issues in Mint State grades, with Bowers estimating 2.5 to 3.5 million examples surviving in MS-60 through MS-62 condition. However, the ‘belly button’ variety (VAM-24) presents a fascinating study in die deterioration and striking anomalies that occurred during the production run of this particular die pair.

According to the forum discussion, this variety is characterized by a distinctive recessed area in the lowest portion of the eagle’s breast, caused by metal failing to fill the deepest portion of the die. What makes this particularly interesting is that collectors have identified a consistent die crack pattern running from the left star to above the ‘U’ in ‘UNITED,’ suggesting this was not a random striking anomaly but rather a progressive die state issue.

Wear Patterns and High Point Analysis

When grading this variety, the first consideration must be the wear patterns on the high points of Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s breast. The ‘belly button’ feature itself can actually serve as an indicator of striking quality. In well-struck examples, this recessed area will be clearly defined but surrounded by sharp, well-defined feathers. In weakly struck specimens, the entire eagle’s breast may appear mushy, making the ‘belly button’ less pronounced or even indistinguishable.

The breast feathers are among the first areas to show wear on circulated examples. A coin graded VF-20 will show light wear on all high points, while an XF-40 will display wear only on the hair above Liberty’s ear and the eagle’s breast. The ‘belly button’ area, being recessed, may actually retain detail longer than the surrounding feathers in circulated conditions.

Key Grading Considerations for the ‘Belly Button’ Feature

• Strike Quality: The depth and definition of the ‘belly button’ can indicate the original striking pressure. Sharper examples typically command premium prices.
• Die State: Early die states show crisp details around the ‘belly button,’ while later states may show deterioration or even attempts to remove the die chip (as evidenced by scratch marks mentioned in the forum).
• Surface Preservation: The recessed area can trap dirt and toning, requiring careful examination under magnification.

Luster and Surface Preservation

Luster quality is paramount when determining whether an 1885-O ‘belly button’ Morgan qualifies for Mint State grades. The New Orleans Mint typically produced coins with satiny luster, though some examples exhibit a more frosty appearance. When examining luster, pay particular attention to:

Cartwheel Effect: Rotate the coin under a single light source to observe the full cartwheel effect. MS-63 and higher coins should display unbroken luster across the entire surface, including the ‘belly button’ area.

Contact Marks: Given the high mintage and subsequent storage in canvas bags, contact marks are common. However, the distribution and severity of these marks significantly impact the grade. MS-65 examples should have only minor marks in secondary areas, while MS-63 coins may show more noticeable abrasions.

Original Surfaces: The forum mentions nicely colored examples, which can be a positive attribute if the toning is original and attractive. However, artificial toning or harsh cleaning will significantly detract from the grade and value.

Strike Quality Assessment

The strike quality of 1885-O dollars is described as average, with examples showing varying degrees of weakness at the centers. This presents a particular challenge when grading the ‘belly button’ variety, as the very feature that defines this variety could be mistaken for simple striking weakness.

Center Strike: Examine the eagle’s breast and Liberty’s hair for full detail. The ‘belly button’ should be a distinct, recessed area rather than simply a weakly struck portion of the design.

Edge Lettering: Check the edge lettering for full definition. Weak strikes often show weakness in the lettering, which can help distinguish between a true ‘belly button’ variety and a weakly struck normal example.

Reverse Details: The eagle’s feathers, particularly on the wings, should show clear separation and definition. The ribbon in the eagle’s beak and the arrows should also display sharp detail.

PCGS/NGC Grading Standards Application

When submitting an 1885-O ‘belly button’ Morgan to PCGS or NGC, understanding how these services grade this specific variety is crucial. Both services recognize the VAM-24 designation, but the ‘belly button’ feature itself is not a separate grade modifier.

MS-60 to MS-62: These coins will show impaired luster, numerous contact marks, and possibly some slide marks from storage. The ‘belly button’ should still be visible but may be less defined due to the overall softness of the strike.

MS-63: Expect unbroken luster with minor contact marks and possibly one or two moderately heavy marks. The ‘belly button’ should be well-defined with good surrounding detail.

MS-64: These specimens display attractive luster with only minor contact marks. The strike should be sharp, with the ‘belly button’ clearly visible and well-formed.

MS-65 and Above: Premium examples with exceptional eye appeal, minimal contact marks, and full original luster. The ‘belly button’ will be sharply defined, and the overall strike quality will be above average for the issue.

Eye Appeal and Market Considerations

Beyond the technical grading aspects, eye appeal plays a significant role in the value of the 1885-O ‘belly button’ Morgan. Collectors are drawn to coins with:

Even Toning: Natural, original toning that enhances rather than obscures the design details. The ‘belly button’ area should not be heavily toned to the point of hiding the feature.

Full Cartwheel Luster: The ability to see the full cartwheel effect across the entire surface, including the recessed ‘belly button’ area.

Strike Character: While the strike is typically average for this issue, examples with particularly sharp centers command premiums, especially when combined with the ‘belly button’ feature.

Authentication and Variety Attribution

Authenticating an 1885-O ‘belly button’ Morgan requires attention to several key markers beyond just the distinctive breast feature:

Die Cracks: The consistent die crack from the left star to above the ‘U’ is a reliable indicator of the VAM-24 variety. This should be present in all genuine examples.

Mint Mark Position: The ‘O’ mint mark should be in the correct position for the variety. Forum members noted that verifying the mint mark position is crucial for proper attribution.

Die State Progression: Later die states may show additional cracks or even attempts to remove the ‘belly button’ die chip, as evidenced by scratch marks mentioned in the discussion.

Conclusion: The Value of Knowledge in Grading

The 1885-O ‘belly button’ Morgan dollar presents a fascinating case study in how variety attribution, die state analysis, and traditional grading standards intersect. Understanding the technical aspects of this variety – from the consistent die crack patterns to the progressive deterioration of the die – allows collectors and graders to properly assess these coins.

Whether you’re examining a circulated example with the ‘belly button’ just visible or a gem Mint State specimen with exceptional eye appeal, the principles remain the same: careful observation of wear patterns, luster quality, strike characteristics, and variety-specific markers will guide you to an accurate grade and appropriate valuation. In the world of Morgan dollars, knowledge truly is the difference between a $10 cull and a $1,000 treasure.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Is Your 1885-O Morgan VAM ‘Belly Button’ Real? How to Spot a Fake – Historical Significance The 1885-O Morgan Dollar with the distinctive ‘belly button’ variety represents one …
• The Mystery of the 1885-O Morgan Dollar ‘Belly Button’ Error – The Hidden Treasure in Your Coin Collection Most people look right past the tiny details that can turn a common item int…
• The Hidden History Behind the 1885-O Morgan Dollar’s ‘Belly Button’ Mystery – The Birth of a Legend: The 1885-O Morgan Dollar Every relic tells a story. To understand this item, we have to look at t…