1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Value, History & Collector's Guide
The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most recognizable coins in American numismatics. As the second year of the Morgan Dollar series, it continued the iconic design created by George T. Morgan and remains a favorite among both new and experienced collectors. Whether you're searching through a family collection or looking to add one to your own, understanding what makes an 1879 Morgan Dollar valuable can help you make informed decisions.
A Brief History of the 1879 Morgan Dollar
The Morgan Dollar was first introduced in 1878 following the passage of the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Mint to purchase large quantities of silver and strike it into silver dollars. By 1879, production had expanded across several U.S. Mint facilities, resulting in coins being struck at:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Carson City (CC)
- New Orleans (O)
- San Francisco (S)
Each mint produced different quantities, making some versions significantly scarcer than others.
Design Features
The obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, symbolizing America's agricultural heritage. The reverse displays a majestic bald eagle holding arrows and an olive branch, surrounded by the inscription "United States of America" and "One Dollar."
Specifications:
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Weight: 26.73 grams
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Designer: George T. Morgan
Which 1879 Morgan Dollars Are the Most Valuable?
Not all 1879 Morgan Dollars are created equal. Several factors influence value, including mint mark, condition, rarity, and whether the coin has been professionally graded.
Some of the most desirable issues include:
- 1879-CC – A key Carson City issue with strong collector demand.
- 1879-CC Capped Die varieties – Popular among variety collectors.
- 1879-S – Known for exceptional strike quality and beautiful luster.
- High-grade Mint State examples – Coins with minimal wear and original surfaces often command substantial premiums.
Even common-date 1879 Morgan Dollars can be worth considerably more than their silver content when they exhibit attractive eye appeal or higher grades.
What Determines the Value?
Collectors typically consider several factors when evaluating an 1879 Morgan Dollar:
- Mint mark
- Overall condition
- Original mint luster
- Surface preservation
- Strike quality
- Professional certification
- Popular die varieties
Coins that remain in uncirculated condition with few marks generally bring the highest prices.
How to Tell if Yours Is Genuine
Because Morgan Dollars are among the most frequently counterfeited U.S. coins, authentication is important. A genuine 1879 Morgan Dollar should have:
- Crisp, well-defined design details
- Correct weight of approximately 26.73 grams
- Diameter of 38.1 mm
- Reeded edge
- Strong silver luster on original examples
When purchasing valuable Morgan Dollars, it's wise to buy from reputable dealers or consider professionally authenticated examples.
Why Collectors Love the 1879 Morgan Dollar
The 1879 Morgan Dollar combines classic American design, historical significance, and strong collector demand. Carson City issues remain especially sought after, while beautifully preserved Philadelphia, San Francisco, and New Orleans examples continue to be excellent additions to any collection.
Whether you're just beginning your Morgan Dollar collection or searching for a premium example, the 1879 issue represents an important chapter in one of America's most beloved silver dollar series.
Find Authentic Morgan Dollars
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