My Take on Why Cherrypickers Guides Are Selling for Sky-High Prices
June 19, 2025My Insights on the Growing Epidemic of Fake PCGS Slabs
June 19, 2025
I’ve been buzzing with excitement over this 1886 Morgan dollar that’s got the whole coin community talking. As someone who loves picking apart details, I’ve spent some real time with this piece – looking at its features and listening to the grading debates – and wanted to share what I found.
Getting Up Close with the ’86 GTG
When I first held this Morgan, it really jumped out at me. That classic 1886 look with light rim toning gives it an elegant touch – the kind that makes toning collectors perk up and definitely adds value. You can’t miss the marks though: one on Liberty’s jaw and another scratch across the eagle’s chest on the back. They’re small, sure, but exactly the sort of thing I zero in on when judging condition.
Grading Insights from My Experience
Grading from photos isn’t perfect, but this ’86 GTG got collectors debating. Here’s where things landed in my view:
- Most folks I chatted with put it at MS64 – those jaw and chest marks keep it from gem status, and I agree. Under a loupe, they really catch your eye.
- Some pushed for MS65, loving the luster and overall look. But grading can be inconsistent – I once saw a PCGS MS65 Morgan with a nasty gash that made me wonder.
- A few said MS63, worried about the scratches. Personally, I think the strong strike and toning pull it higher.
My tip? Get multiple opinions and think about how marks or toning affect the coin’s character – that often decides the grade.
Market Observations and Collecting Tips
This coin shows what I’ve noticed lately – toning like this often adds 10-20% value, especially on always-popular Morgans. Collectors are grabbing these eye-catchers, so if you’re hunting similar pieces, focus more on visual appeal than tiny flaws. And that PCGS example? It’s why I recommend buying certified coins or getting hands-on opinions – photos don’t show everything. From my own collecting, I’ve found that waiting for the right moment (like seeing the actual grade) usually leads to better buys.
Truth is, this ’86 GTG Morgan stands out despite its marks. It’s got me itching to hunt for more, and I hope it sparks some excitement for your collection too. Happy hunting!
