My Pretty Morgan: Toning, Grading, and Photography Adventures

I’ve been completely captivated by my 1894-S Morgan dollar—it’s not the rarest or most valuable coin out there, but its beauty has me hooked. That vibrant toning and the intricate details make it a real standout in my collection. I’ve spent countless hours figuring out how best to show it off. Let me share what I’ve learned through trial and error, with some practical tips you might find useful.

Mastering Coin Photography to Capture True Colors

Photographing my Morgan has been quite the journey, especially capturing its stunning toning that shifts under different lights. Using an adjustable lamp set between 5000-6000K color temperature was a game-changer—it revealed hues completely missed by sunlight or my phone. Our eyes can play tricks, but this setup finally matched what I was seeing. Next up? Building a simple blackout box for better lighting control, a much cheaper route than a fancy camera rig. Here’s what helped me most:

• Try using two lamps at different angles to cut glare and highlight toning without blowing out the image.
• Play with lower intensity settings—too much light flattens details. Natural daylight is king, but good lamps can mimic it indoors.
• Be patient! Getting true colors often means taking lots of shots and tweaking things. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t click right away.

Navigating Grading Dilemmas for Morgan Dollars

Grading my 1894-S keeps me guessing—it’s likely an AU58 or MS61, with MS62 feeling like a stretch. Under the scope, I lean toward MS61 thanks to hints of prooflike surfaces, but wear above Liberty’s ear and light reverse marks suggest AU55 to AU58. It’s a popular date, with AU58 examples typically valued around $750-$950, making it a solid piece for any collection. From my own squinting sessions, here’s what I watch for:

• Focus on high points: hair above Liberty’s ear and the eagle’s chest show wear first.
• Check for prooflike surfaces under magnification—they can bump a grade but hide easily on toned coins.
• When unsure, tap trusted grading books or a knowledgeable friend. Tiny details really matter.

My Collecting Philosophy and Long-Term Goals

Morgan dollars just grab me, and I’m slowly working toward a full album—minus the 1895, which would require winning the lottery! My approach? Only sell to fund upgrades, like trading a lower-grade 1878-CC for a crisp MS63. I’ve got several toners, and honestly, their beauty makes them hard to let go. Here’s how I keep things manageable:

• Upgrade gradually. Patience really is a virtue in this hobby.
• Seek coins with character—great toning or interesting VAMs add soul and potential value.
• Set achievable goals. Tackle key dates one at a time so the hunt stays fun.

VAM Varieties and Other Numismatic Nuances

Getting into VAMs has added a whole new thrill—my 1894-S is a VAM-6, spotted by specific die markers, while my 1878-CC is a VAM-27 with die breaks. These quirks can boost both value and interest, so I always check coins under the scope. Remember, dramatic toning like mine can spark debate; some folks question if it’s natural. But under good light, it looks authentic to my eye. Whether you collect for silver or history, noticing these little marks and stories is what makes it all so rewarding.

In the end, my pretty Morgan sums up why I love collecting—it’s the joy of discovery and the craft of preservation. If you’re building your own set, embrace the challenges and share your stories. That’s the real heart of numismatics.