1882-O/S Morgan Dollar
Guidelines for Collecting:
In late 1881 at the Philadelphia Mint, when 1882-dated obverse dies were being made, a number of reverse dies bearing S mintmarks were overpunched with the O mintmark. The reason for this was probably to convert some of the extra, unused S dies for New Orleans Mint use. The 1882-O/S is a worthy addition to a collection, and a reasonable goal is obtaining one in MS-63 or MS-64—examples in higher grade are virtually impossible to find. Overall, striking varies from sharp to weak. There is graininess on many coins due to tiny raised dots from light rust pits in the dies.
Availability in Circulated Grades:
This scarce variety is found in circulated grades but not with any regularity. We typically see VF to EF when seen at all.
Availability in Mint State Grades:
Stick to a pleasing MS-63 or 64 example when available, as anything beyond those grades is rare and pricey. Look for a piece with sharp central details.
Availability in Proof:
None produced.
The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the Larry H. Miller Collection, where it realized $49,200.
1882-O/S Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights
PCGS MS-65, CAC Sold for $49,200 View Lot 6318 | PCGS MS-64, CAC Sold for $12,600 View Lot 1512 | PCGS MS-64, CAC Sold for $4,200 View Lot 6643 |