My Take on The Awaited ’86 GTG Morgan Dollar

As a longtime coin collector, I recently got caught up in the excitement over an 1886 Morgan dollar that had everyone debating its grade. It reminded me of some hard-earned lessons from my own collecting journey.

Grading the 1886 Morgan

After studying the photos, I’d peg this coin firmly as MS64. That mark under Liberty’s jaw and the scratch across the eagle’s breast are exactly the kind of flaws that keep Morgans out of gem territory. I’ve heard some collectors argue for MS65, but in my book, those imperfections are just too obvious for the top tier.

Common Flaws and Their Impact

This took me back to a PCGS MS65 Morgan I once handled with a glaring reverse gash – still puzzles me how that got through! It shows how one small mark can tank a grade. What saves this ’86 piece is that lovely rim toning. Toning enthusiasts would happily pay extra for that character, making it a solid buy despite the blemishes.

Practical Grading Tips

Here’s what I’ve learned about judging coins from photos:

• Scrutinize high-wear zones like the cheek and fields – a single hit there often decides the grade
• Never underestimate toning – even subtle rim color can add value to a lower-grade coin
• Measure against official standards – what seems minor might drop you from MS65 to MS64

Market Observations

Coins like this prove Morgans with personality – whether from toning or honest marks – still find eager buyers. The waiting game for the final grade? That’s part of our hobby’s thrill. It reminds me why we collect: sometimes the hunt matters as much as the prize.