1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Value Guide

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is a cornerstone of American numismatics, representing the second year of this iconic series designed by George T. Morgan. Minted under the Bland-Allison Act, these 90% silver coins are prized for their intricate Lady Liberty profile and their significant role in late 19th-century commerce.

What affects the value of 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar?

• The specific mint mark, with Carson City (CC) examples commanding much higher premiums than Philadelphia or San Francisco strikes.
• The level of preservation on high-relief areas, specifically the feathers on the eagle's breast and the hair lines above Liberty's ear.
• The presence of original mint luster versus signs of cleaning or heavy circulation wear.
• Fluctuations in the spot price of silver, as each coin contains approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of fine silver.

How to Identify 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar?

• Look for the designer's initial 'M' at the base of Liberty's neck and on the left loop of the ribbon on the reverse.
• Verify the coin's physical specifications: a diameter of 38.1mm and a weight of 26.73 grams.
• Check for a mint mark (S, CC, or O) on the reverse side, located centrally just above the letters 'DO' in 'DOLLAR'.
• Inspect the edge for consistent reeding, a security feature used to prevent the shaving of silver from the coin.

History of 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar

The Morgan Dollar, designed by George T. Morgan, was minted from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921. It was a product of the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase a certain amount of silver each month and coin it into dollars. These coins played a significant role in American commerce and are highly sought after by collectors today due to their beauty and historical importance.