1902-S Morgan Dollar
Guidelines for Collecting:
Mint State grades of the 1902-S dollar are plentiful, but the strike quality varies. Most are lightly struck and some specimens have parallel die striations on Miss Liberty’s face. Finding an example with sharp strike will take some time. The luster of the 1902-S is typically satiny.
Availability in Circulated Grades:
It will take some diligence to find an EF or AU but it can be done. Most collectors select Mint State coins for this issue.
Availability in Mint State Grades:
Always available in MS-60- to 63 grades, though quality can play an important part in your choice. This issue is often seen with planchet striations across Liberty’s portrait from the planchet preparation stage. These should be avoided in favor of a well-struck and lustrous specimen, though neither of those qualities is a given for this date. MS-64 with the above positive attributes is the way to go for the 1902-S.
Availability in Proof:
None produced.
The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the Spring 2023 Showcase Auction, where it realized $5,760.
1902-S Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights
 PCGS MS-65 Sold for $6,600 View Lot 1105 |  PCGS MS-65, CAC Sold for $5,760 View Lot 6727 |  PCGS MS-66 Sold for $5,520 View Lot 7461 |
