Ron Guth:
Over thirty years of grading experience has given us a different view of the 1893-S Half Dollar than that shared by previous writers. For instance, there are almost twice as many PCGS-certified Mint State 1893-S Half Dollars than 1893-S Dollars. The same is true for Gem examples (MS65 or better). Of course, the 1893-S Dollar remains the star of the Morgan Dollar series and the price reflects both the rarity and the popularity of that date.
To its credit, the 1893-S Half Dollar is a great date in the series. It is more difficult to obtain in Mint State that many of the other dates from the 1890's. Even better, it usually comes with a bold strike. Luster ranges from frosty and creamy to bright and chrome-like. MS63 and MS64 appear to be the most common grades for this date. Gems are very scarce and none are known above MS66.