1897-O Morgan Silver Dollar New Orleans Mint
The 1897-O Morgan Silver Dollar is a significant and historically rich issue from the New Orleans Mint. With a mintage of 4,004,000, it is readily available in circulated grades but becomes an extreme condition rarity in Mint State. This year is famous among numismatists because, while millions were struck, a massive percentage was released into circulation or melted under the 1918 Pittman Act, leaving very few uncirculated survivors.
New Orleans strikes from 1897 are typically known for having a "medium" strike—better than the notoriously flat 1890s issues, but still often lacking the sharp definition found in Philadelphia or San Francisco coins. This coin features the "O" mint mark on the reverse. Because of its scarcity in high grades, any 1897-O with original, uncleaned surfaces and sharp details on Liberty’s hair or the eagle's breast is highly prized.