My GTG Journey with the 1899-O Morgan Dollar: Grading and Reslabbing Insights

I recently got my hands on an 1899-O Morgan Dollar that sparked a deep dive into grading and reslabbing strategies, and I’m excited to share my experience with you. As a coin collector, I’ve always been fascinated by the nuances of Morgan Dollars, especially the 1899-O variety, which is notoriously tough to find in Prooflike (PL) condition.

Grading Insights for the 1899-O Morgan

When I examined this coin, I agreed with the MS64PL grade—it’s a solid assessment based on the coin’s luster and surface quality. Grading can be subjective, though; I’ve seen opinions range from MS63 to MS64, with debates over whether it truly hits the PL mark. In my view, photos don’t always capture the full story—handling the coin reveals subtle details like mirror-like fields that define PL designation. If you’re grading similar coins, I recommend using a loupe to check for hairlines or bag marks, as these can bump a coin down a grade. Aim for consistent lighting to avoid misjudgments.

Why I’m Choosing to Reslab with NGC

I’m planning to send this coin to NGC for reslabbing, not necessarily for a grade bump, but for better market appeal. While I appreciate ICG’s accuracy (they’re often spot-on in my experience), NGC and PCGS slabs carry more prestige and resale value. In today’s market, collectors pay premiums for top-tier TPG holders, so if you’re building a competitive set like I am, switching slabs can boost your coin’s desirability. My advice: if your coin is already in an older slab or raw, consider NGC or PCGS for maximizing investment potential.

The Challenge of Finding PL Morgans

The 1899-O in PL is a real rarity—I learned this the hard way when I lost one at auction due to a seller’s excuse. But persistence pays off; I reached out to trusted dealers like Mbarrcoins and scored multiple options. Here are key takeaways from my hunt:

• Always ask dealers about hidden inventory—you might uncover gems not listed online.
• PL Morgans from 1899 are scarce, so be ready to act fast in auctions or private sales.
• Building relationships with coin shops can lead to exclusive opportunities, as it did for me.

Market Observations and Practical Tips

Based on my dealings, the value difference between ICG and NGC slabs is significant—NGC can add 10-20% to a coin’s worth. For the 1899-O PL, grades like MS63PL are common finds, but MS64PL or higher command top dollar. If you’re collecting, focus on eye appeal over minor grade differences; a well-struck coin with strong luster often outperforms in the long run. Also, consider the ‘Green Bean’ label for mid-grade coins—it’s a fun niche that can attract buyers. In summary, embrace the journey: study grades, leverage reslabbing, and hunt smart for those elusive PL Morgans!