The 1885-S Morgan dollar represents a significant piece of American numismatic history. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. Its design features Liberty on the obverse and a bald eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch on the reverse, symbolizing peace and strength. The “S” mintmark indicates its origin at the San Francisco Mint, differentiating it from examples minted at other U.S. facilities.
The desirability and value associated with this particular coin stem from a combination of factors. These include its relative scarcity compared to other years in the Morgan dollar series, its silver content, and its historical significance within the context of late 19th-century American coinage. Its presence in collections contributes to the preservation of this era’s artistic and economic heritage. The coin reflects the economic and political climate of its time, a period marked by debates over silver coinage and monetary policy.