Grading Morgan Dollars is not an exact science where an objective method can be applied, and everyone comes out with the same result. Over time, numismatists and coin grading services have agreed upon specific definitions, descriptions, and Sheldon’s numeric values that help all coin collectors describe their coins accurately. By studying this guide, you will understand those terms and designations so you can accurately grade your Morgan dollars. When grading mint state or uncirculated coins, the hair that covers the upper half of Lady Liberty’s ear sometimes does not strike up fully and you may confuse this lack of detail with wear due to circulation. Look closely at the other high points for signs of wear before determining if the coin is uncirculated or not. The photo illustrates the highest points on the Morgan Dollars design (indicated by the color red).
The Official American Numismatic Association Grading Standards of United States Coins Photograde: A Photographic Grading Encyclopedia for United States Coins Making the Grade: A Grading Guide to the Top 50 Most Widely Collected U.S. Coins Grading Coins by Photographs The Official Guide to Coin Grading and Counterfeit Detection
