Unveiling the Mystery: My Experience with the Awaited ’86 GTG Morgan

I’ve been collecting coins my whole life, but recently an 1886 Morgan silver dollar stopped me in my tracks. It’s been stirring up quite the conversation among collectors, and I want to walk you through my hands-on experience with this piece. Along the way, I’ll share some grading observations that might help your own collecting journey.

The Grading Challenge: MS63 to MS65

When I finally held this ’86 Morgan under my loupe, I understood why opinions varied so wildly. Most folks in our circle agreed on MS64, and here’s what stood out:

• Distinct marks on Liberty’s jaw that rule out gem status – they jump out even in photographs
• A scratch cutting across the eagle’s breast feathers that’s too significant for top grades
• While the rim toning gives it personality, it doesn’t override those contact marks

I heard convincing cases for MS63 from some quarters, while others championed MS65 based on overall eye appeal. It drove home something I’ve always believed: grading involves healthy subjectivity. Trust your own eyes above all else.

Toning’s Magic Touch

What really grabbed me was how that delicate rim toning elevated the coin’s charm. In today’s market, attractive toning like this often brings premium prices – especially from collectors who appreciate unique coloration. When you’re searching for Morgans, remember toning can transform an ordinary date into something extraordinary.

A Reality Check on Grading Services

Handling this coin reminded me of another Morgan I’d seen slabbed as MS65 by PCGS. That one had a glaring gash that made me scratch my head. Here’s what I took away: grading services provide valuable benchmarks, but they’re not perfect. Always inspect coins personally – sometimes minor flaws slip through, and they absolutely affect both value and authenticity.

The Thrill of the Chase

That extended wait for the final grade? It reminded me why I love this hobby. Numismatics thrives on these moments of collective anticipation and friendly debate. Whether you’re new to coins or have handled thousands, lean into these exciting phases – they’re what make collecting so rewarding.

Next time you’re examining a coin like this ’86 GTG, savor the details, enjoy the conversation with fellow collectors, and may your finds bring joy!