Morgan Dollar: A Full In-Depth Review

The Morgan Dollar holds a special place in American numismatic history. Struck from 1878 to 1904 and once again in 1921, this silver coin is a favorite among collectors and investors alike. Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, the Morgan Dollar represents an era of expansion, industrialization, and bold national identity. This coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a symbol of the late 19th century American spirit and craftsmanship.

Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The Morgan Dollar features a highly detailed and patriotic design that has captivated coin enthusiasts for generations. On the obverse is the profile of Lady Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with agricultural motifs like cotton and wheat. Her expression is serene yet strong, reflecting the nation's growing sense of confidence in the post-Civil War years.

The reverse showcases a proud American eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbols of military readiness and peace. Surrounding the eagle is the inscription "United States of America" and the denomination "One Dollar." The words "In God We Trust" are prominently displayed above the eagle, reinforcing the nation’s values during a period of rapid transformation.

The level of intricacy in the engraving is impressive. The coin’s high relief and substantial diameter give it a physical and visual presence that many modern coins lack. Collectors often praise the Morgan Dollar not only for its historical importance but also for its sheer beauty.

Composition and Specifications

The Morgan Dollar is composed of 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper, weighing 26.73 grams with a diameter of 38.1 millimeters. This alloy was typical for U.S. silver coinage of the time, balancing intrinsic value with durability. Each coin contains just under three-quarters of an ounce of pure silver, making it a tangible store of value for collectors and investors alike.

The reeded edge and solid feel give the coin a satisfying heft in hand, and its silver content ensures it retains intrinsic value. Even worn or circulated Morgan Dollars carry silver bullion value, while uncirculated or rare dates can command high premiums.

Historical Context and Production

The creation of the Morgan Dollar came after the passage of the Bland-Allison Act in 1878, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large amounts of silver and convert it into coinage. This legislation was partly a political compromise between silver mining interests in the West and conservative economic voices in the East.

Production began in 1878 at the Philadelphia Mint and later expanded to branch mints in Carson City, San Francisco, New Orleans, and eventually Denver in 1921. Each mint mark tells its own story, and some locations produced relatively low quantities, making those coins particularly sought-after.

The Morgan Dollar was struck during a time of major economic and technological change. Railroads, mechanized industry, and population growth defined the era, and the coin’s robust, enduring design feels appropriate to that period’s bold ambitions.

Rarity and Collectibility

Some Morgan Dollars are relatively common, especially those minted in high quantities during certain years. However, the series also includes coins of considerable rarity, such as the 1893-S, which can fetch thousands of dollars even in lower grades due to its low mintage.

Collectors often pursue full sets by date and mint mark, a rewarding but potentially costly challenge. Proof versions, high-grade uncirculated coins, and varieties like the 8 Tailfeather and 7/8 Tailfeather issues add further depth to the collecting experience.

Grading plays a crucial role in determining the value of a Morgan Dollar. Coins that are well-struck with little wear can command substantial premiums, especially those graded by professional services in Mint State conditions.

Market Demand and Investment Appeal

In recent years, the Morgan Dollar has enjoyed continued popularity among both collectors and precious metal investors. Its enduring demand is fueled by its silver content, historical allure, and widespread recognition. Unlike modern bullion coins, Morgan Dollars have a numismatic component that can enhance their value far beyond the price of silver alone.

For investors, the Morgan Dollar offers a dual benefit: a hedge against inflation via its silver content, and potential appreciation through rising collector interest. Even during market downturns, key-date Morgans often retain strong value due to their scarcity and iconic status.

Modern Commemoratives and Legacy

The legacy of the Morgan Dollar lives on. In recent years, commemorative issues celebrating the original design have been released, underscoring its continued appeal. These modern tributes help introduce the design to a new generation of collectors while rekindling interest among seasoned numismatists.

The Morgan Dollar is more than a collectible coin—it is a testament to a transformative period in American history. Its artistic beauty, tangible value, and enduring popularity make it a cornerstone of any serious coin collection.

Whether you're drawn to its silver shine, its detailed engraving, or its rich backstory, the Morgan Dollar remains one of the most captivating and rewarding coins the United States has ever produced.

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In-Depth Review: 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar $1 Brilliant Uncirculated BU 90% Silver

The 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of American history encased in silver. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this specific mint year and location holds a special place in the hearts of numismatists and silver investors alike. With a Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition and composed of 90% silver, this coin continues to attract interest due to its historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and investment potential.

Historical Background

The Morgan Silver Dollar was introduced in 1878 and was minted until 1904, then briefly in 1921. Designed by George T. Morgan, this iconic coin was the first standard silver dollar minted after the passage of the Coinage Act of 1873, which ended the free coining of silver. The Morgan Dollar came into existence largely due to the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase a significant amount of silver and turn it into coins. This helped to prop up the struggling silver mining industry at the time.

The 1879 S (San Francisco Mint) issue came during the second year of the Morgan Dollar’s production. San Francisco had a reputation for producing high-quality coinage, and many of the Morgan Dollars from this mint are well-struck and preserved in better-than-average condition. The "S" mint mark can be found below the tail feathers of the eagle on the reverse of the coin, distinguishing it from other mint locations such as Philadelphia, Carson City, and New Orleans.

Design and Aesthetics

George T. Morgan’s design is among the most beloved in American coinage. The obverse of the coin features a profile portrait of Lady Liberty, modeled after Anna Willess Williams, a Philadelphia schoolteacher. Liberty wears a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom, adorned with wheat and cotton to represent America's agricultural roots.

The reverse showcases a powerful image of a heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing both military strength and a desire for peace. The eagle is encircled by the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DOLLAR,” and the classic motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

On a Brilliant Uncirculated specimen, these details remain sharp and well-preserved. Luster is typically present throughout the coin, enhancing its visual appeal. Even under magnification, a BU coin shows no signs of wear on the highest points of the design.

Composition and Specifications

The 1879 S Morgan Dollar is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. It weighs 26.73 grams and has a diameter of 38.1 mm. The silver content alone makes this coin desirable among investors and collectors alike. With approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver, it holds intrinsic metal value in addition to its numismatic appeal.

Investment Potential

The 1879 S Morgan Dollar in Brilliant Uncirculated condition represents an ideal blend of historical value and precious metal content. Unlike bullion coins, which derive most of their value from the current price of silver, Morgan Dollars can appreciate based on rarity, condition, and demand from collectors.

The San Francisco Mint generally struck high-quality coins, and many 1879 S specimens remain in excellent condition today. While it is not the rarest Morgan by any means, demand for this date in BU condition remains strong. As the number of original, uncirculated examples continues to dwindle due to time, mishandling, or melting, prices have the potential to increase.

Moreover, the Morgan Dollar series enjoys a large and active collector base. These coins are often collected by date and mintmark, and the 1879 S is a vital component of any complete Morgan Dollar set. Investors often look for coins that have both silver content and collector value, and this coin fits that niche well.

Collectability and Market Demand

The 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar has maintained consistent interest from both seasoned collectors and new entrants into the numismatic market. Its relatively high mintage ensures availability, but the BU condition narrows the field, offering better long-term potential due to limited pristine specimens.

Collectors value coins that combine beauty, historical interest, and solid investment potential. The 1879 S Morgan checks all these boxes. Because of its established place in American history, its widespread recognition, and its beautiful design, this coin enjoys robust market liquidity. This means if and when an owner decides to sell, there’s typically a ready market for it.

Final Thoughts

The 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar in Brilliant Uncirculated condition is a standout piece that appeals to collectors and investors alike. It represents a snapshot of 19th-century America—a time of economic transformation, westward expansion, and industrial growth. Its 90% silver composition gives it inherent value, while its place in a beloved coin series ensures ongoing demand.

Whether you're looking to preserve wealth in precious metals, build a historic coin collection, or own a tangible piece of the past, this coin offers a compelling opportunity. Holding one is like holding a piece of American heritage—sturdy, beautiful, and enduring.

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