How to Grade Morgan Dollars
- 1). Grade the coin as gem uncirculated (MS-65) only if the coin shows absolutely no wear, a strong luster and few contact marks made by hitting against other objects. If the coin has several contact marks, give it a grade of choice uncirculated (MS-63).
- 2). Choose uncirculated (MS-60) as the grade if the silver dollar is scuffed, but has no wear. It must still have a full luster.
- 3). Examine the Lady Liberty on the front of the coin. If you see minor wear on the hair left of her forehead or near her bust shoulder, grade the coin as about uncirculated (AU-50). Turn the coin over and examine the eagle. If you see wear on the eagle's breast or on the top of its wings, the coin should also be considered about uncirculated.
- 4). Grade the coin as extremely fine (EF-40) if Lady Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers have a fair amount of wear yet the lines are bold and easy to discern.
- 5). Pick a grade of very fine (VF-20) if the eagle's breast feathers are not visible and much of Lady Liberty's hair lines are not discernible.
