1879 Morgan Silver Dollar: History, Value & Collectibility

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is a cornerstone of American numismatics, celebrated for its stunning design, rich history, and enduring appeal among collectors. As part of the Morgan Silver Dollar series, which ran from 1878 to 1904 and briefly in 1921, this coin reflects the economic and cultural landscape of post-Civil War America.

Struck at multiple mints, the 1879 issue offers a range of varieties and values, making it a fascinating pursuit for both novice and seasoned collectors.

Historical Context

Introduced under the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, the Morgan Silver Dollar, designed by George T. Morgan, was created to meet the demand for silver coinage backed by the powerful silver mining industry. The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar was minted during a period of economic recovery and westward expansion, with production at four mints: Philadelphia (no mintmark), Carson City (CC), New Orleans (O), and San Francisco (S).

Also read – 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar: The First and Most Iconic U.S. Coin

The Philadelphia Mint struck 14,806,000 coins, New Orleans produced 2,887,000, San Francisco minted 9,110,000, and Carson City, with its much smaller output of 756,000, created the rarest and most sought-after variety for the year.

The Morgan Silver Dollar’s iconic design and high silver content have made it a symbol of the American West, with the 1879 issues showcasing the series’ early popularity and collectible allure.

Key Features

  • Obverse: Features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, modeled after Anna Willess Williams, with “LIBERTY” on her headband, “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above, and “1879” below, flanked by stars. Mintmarks (CC, O, or S) appear below the wreath on the reverse.
  • Reverse: Depicts an eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” along the rim and “IN GOD WE TRUST” above the eagle.
  • Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
  • Diameter: 38.1 mm.
  • Weight: 26.73 grams.
  • Special Note: The 1879-CC variety is particularly rare, with some coins featuring a “Clear CC” or “Rusted CC” mintmark, adding to their collectible value.

Rarity and Value

The value of the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar varies widely depending on the mint, condition, and specific varieties. While Philadelphia and San Francisco issues are relatively common, the New Orleans and especially Carson City coins are scarcer, with the 1879-CC being the key date for the year due to its low mintage.

The coin’s 90% silver content provides a baseline “melt value” (approximately $20–$25 as of July 22, 2025, based on silver prices), but numismatic value often far exceeds this, particularly for high-grade or rare varieties like the 1879-CC.

Below is a chart of approximate values for the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar based on mint and grade (data sourced from numismatic references, as of July 22, 2025):

GradePhiladelphia (USD)New Orleans (O, USD)San Francisco (S, USD)Carson City (CC, USD)
Good (G-4)$30.00 – $40.00$35.00 – $50.00$30.00 – $45.00$200.00 – $300.00
Fine (F-12)$40.00 – $50.00$45.00 – $60.00$40.00 – $55.00$300.00 – $500.00
Very Fine (VF-20)$50.00 – $60.00$55.00 – $75.00$50.00 – $65.00$500.00 – $800.00
Extremely Fine (EF-40)$60.00 – $80.00$75.00 – $100.00$65.00 – $90.00$800.00 – $1,500.00
About Uncirculated (AU-50)$80.00 – $120.00$100.00 – $150.00$90.00 – $130.00$1,500.00 – $2,500.00
Uncirculated (MS-63)$150.00 – $250.00$200.00 – $400.00$150.00 – $300.00$3,000.00 – $5,000.00
Uncirculated (MS-65)$400.00 – $800.00$1,000.00 – $2,000.00$500.00 – $1,000.00$10,000.00 – $20,000.00+

Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on market trends, auction results, and specific coin characteristics, such as luster, toning, or varieties like the 1879-CC Clear CC. Coins graded by PCGS or NGC, especially those with designations like Deep Mirror Prooflike (DMPL), often command premiums.

Also read – 1961 Franklin Half Dollar: What Makes It Valuable Today?

Why Collectors Love It

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar captivates collectors for several reasons:

  • Historical Significance: Minted in the early years of the Morgan series, it reflects America’s post-Civil War economic and industrial growth.
  • Silver Content: Its 90% silver composition ensures intrinsic value, appealing to both collectors and investors.
  • Variety Appeal: The 1879-CC’s rarity and other mint-specific varieties, like the 1879-S Reverse of 1878, add intrigue for collectors.
  • Iconic Design: Morgan’s detailed Liberty portrait and majestic eagle make it one of the most beautiful U.S. coins.
  • Condition Rarity: High-grade examples, especially from Carson City, are scarce due to circulation and the era’s storage practices.

Tips for Collectors

  • Check Mintmarks: Identify the mintmark (none for Philadelphia, O, S, or CC) and look for varieties like the 1879-CC Clear CC or 1879-S Reverse of 1878.
  • Authentication: Have high-value coins, especially 1879-CC examples, graded by PCGS or NGC to confirm authenticity and condition.
  • Storage: Store in archival-quality holders in a cool, dry environment to preserve silver luster and prevent tarnishing.
  • Market Trends: Monitor silver prices and auction results to assess both melt and numismatic values, particularly for rare varieties.

Conclusion

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is a timeless piece of American history, blending beauty, rarity, and value in a single coin. From the common Philadelphia and San Francisco issues to the elusive Carson City variety, it offers something for every collector, whether you’re drawn to its silver content, historical significance, or numismatic prestige.

With careful attention to condition and varieties, your 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar could be a valuable gem in your collection, connecting you to the legacy of the American West and the golden age of U.S. coinage.

FAQs

1. What makes the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar special?
It’s an early issue of the iconic Morgan Dollar series, known for its detailed design and collectible mint varieties.

2. Which 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is the rarest?
The 1879-CC (Carson City) version is the rarest, with a mintage of only 756,000 coins.

3. How much silver is in a 1879 Morgan Dollar?
Each coin contains 90% silver and 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams.

4. What’s the value of a 1879 Morgan Dollar?
Values range from \$30 to over \$20,000, depending on mintmark, condition, and rarity.

5. Where is the mintmark on the 1879 Morgan Dollar?
Look for the mintmark (O, S, or CC) below the wreath on the reverse, above the letters “DOLLAR.”

Shine
Shine

Shine is a thoughtful writer born in Ajmer, Rajasthan, with a deep curiosity for creativity, intuition, and self-awareness. From an early age, Shine found meaning in observing life’s subtle patterns and inner journeys—an interest that naturally evolved into a passion for writing. Through a blend of introspection and storytelling, Shine explores the emotional and mental landscapes that shape our daily experiences. Whether reflecting on personal growth or the unseen threads that connect us all, Shine’s words invite readers to pause, reflect, and reconnect. When not writing, Shine enjoys quiet moments, books, and the soulful rhythm of a mindful life.

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