5 Shocking Facts: 1879 Silver Dollar Values Revealed

In the vast world of numismatics, few coins capture the imagination quite like the 1879 silver dollar. This coin, minted during the Morgan Dollar series, carries a rich history and a unique charm. Its value, however, isn't just in its age or the history it embodies; several factors contribute to its worth, often leading to some surprising discoveries for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Shocking Fact 1: Varieties and Their Values

The 1879 silver dollar has several key varieties that can drastically affect its value:

• 1879 Morgan Dollar: This is the standard issue with an estimated mintage of approximately 14.5 million. In circulated condition, expect values around $30-$100, but uncirculated examples can fetch over $1000.

• 1879-O Morgan Dollar: Minted in New Orleans with a "O" mint mark, this variety is slightly rarer. Circulated coins are worth $50-$150, and uncirculated ones can reach upwards of $1500.

• 1879-S Morgan Dollar: San Francisco mints these, and due to lower mintage, they command higher values. Circulated pieces might start at $100, while uncirculated coins can sell for several thousand dollars.

Here's a quick comparison:

<table> <tr> <th>Variety</th> <th>Circulated Value</th> <th>Uncirculated Value</th> </tr> <tr> <td>1879 (Philadelphia)</td> <td>$30 - $100</td> <td>$1000+</td> </tr> <tr> <td>1879-O (New Orleans)</td> <td>$50 - $150</td> <td>$1500+</td> </tr> <tr> <td>1879-S (San Francisco)</td> <td>$100+</td> <td>$1000s</td> </tr> </table>

Helpful Tips for Identification

• Look closely at the mint mark or its absence to identify the variety.
• The 'O' and 'S' are small letters above the 'D' and 'O' in "DOLLAR" on the coin's reverse.
• Check the eagle's feathers; details should be sharp in higher-grade coins.

<p class="pro-note">🔍 Pro Tip: Use a loupe to inspect the coin's details. Even subtle differences can mean significant value differences.</p>

Shocking Fact 2: Coin Grading Matters

The coin's grade directly impacts its value. Here's how:

• Good (G-4) to About Uncirculated (AU-58): These grades indicate significant wear but still retain enough detail for collectors. Prices can range from $30 to $300.

• MS-60 to MS-65: This is the lower end of the Mint State (MS) range, where coins show minor imperfections but are still considered uncirculated. Values start at around $100 and can go up to $1000 or more.

• MS-66 and Above: These are considered high-grade coins with little to no wear. Here, collectors and investors pay premiums, often reaching thousands for the finest examples.

Mistakes to Avoid in Grading

• Not Accounting for Toning: Toning can enhance value if it's attractive. Conversely, bad toning can detract from the coin's appeal.
• Ignoring Mint Errors: Certain errors increase value significantly, like doubled dies or off-center strikes.

<p class="pro-note">👀 Pro Tip: Always get your coin professionally graded if you suspect it's high grade or has unique characteristics. The certification can add thousands to its value.</p>

Shocking Fact 3: Historical Significance Boosts Value

1879 was an interesting year for the Morgan Dollar:

• Gold Standard Era: The silver dollar was still legal tender at the time, but the U.S. was moving towards the gold standard, creating a backdrop for the coin's creation.

• Morgan Dollar Series: This year saw the height of Morgan Dollar production, with over 14 million coins minted, adding to the historical value.

• Economic Context: Post-Civil War and amidst westward expansion, the coin represented America's economic aspirations and growth.

Scenarios of Usage

• Trade: These dollars were used in everyday transactions but also in trade dollars sent to Asia, increasing their circulation value.

• Collectors' Speculation: The intrinsic value of silver, coupled with the coin's rarity, made it a sought-after item even in 1879.

<p class="pro-note">📚 Pro Tip: Explore the historical context behind your coins. Knowledge of the era can provide insights into why the coin was minted and its potential value today.</p>

Shocking Fact 4: Rarity and Hoarding

The 1879-S Morgan Dollar, for instance, is known for its low survival rate:

• San Francisco Mint: Only about 9.5 million were struck, with many melted down for their silver content over time.

• Hoarding for Silver: The economic value of silver at times surpassed the face value, leading to the melting of many coins.

Advanced Techniques for Preservation

• Encapsulation: Use high-quality coin holders to prevent damage and toning.

• Controlled Environment: Keep coins in a stable environment with controlled humidity and temperature to prevent corrosion.

<p class="pro-note">🛡 Pro Tip: Preserve your coins using archival-quality materials. Degradation can significantly reduce value, especially for high-grade coins.</p>

Shocking Fact 5: Market Trends and Collector Demand

Market dynamics play a massive role:

• Economic Fluctuations: Silver value changes, economic downturns, and trends in collecting affect prices.

• Collector Demographics: Younger collectors might favor higher grades, driving up prices, while older collectors might look for variety over condition.

Practical Examples of Market Influence

• Graded Coin Auctions: Auctions can provide real-time insights into what collectors are willing to pay for specific grades of 1879 silver dollars.

• Investment Trends: When precious metals surge in price, so do Morgan dollars due to their silver content and numismatic value.

<p class="pro-note">📈 Pro Tip: Stay updated with market trends. Following auctions, price guides, and numismatic news can help you understand the current value of your coins.</p>

In wrapping up, it's clear that the 1879 silver dollar carries much more than its age and history. Its value hinges on grade, mint marks, rarity, historical context, and market demand. Collectors and investors should delve into these facets to appreciate their collections fully and make informed investment decisions. The journey through numismatics is one of discovery and education, where every coin tells a story, and the 1879 silver dollar has many tales to share.

Now, explore more about coin grading, Morgan Dollar series, and historical numismatics to deepen your understanding of these fascinating pieces of history.

<p class="pro-note">🔍 Pro Tip: Don't limit yourself to just the 1879 silver dollar. Understanding the series as a whole will give you a broader appreciation for each coin's place in history.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What Makes the 1879-S Morgan Dollar Valuable?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The 1879-S Morgan Dollar has a lower mintage compared to other varieties, and fewer have survived due to melting for their silver content. High grades are especially sought after, making them valuable.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is it worth collecting all varieties of the 1879 Morgan Dollar?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, collecting all varieties provides a comprehensive view of the year's coinage. Each variety tells a different part of the story and can offer different investment opportunities.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the significance of the "O" mint mark on the 1879-O Morgan Dollar?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The "O" mint mark signifies that the coin was minted in New Orleans, which was a significant mint during the time. Coins from this mint tend to have a distinctive look and often command a premium in the market.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I determine the grade of my 1879 silver dollar?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You can learn the basic principles of coin grading from guides and resources, or you can have your coin professionally graded by a reputable service like NGC or PCGS.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Does the silver content of the 1879 Morgan Dollar affect its numismatic value?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, the intrinsic silver value adds a base value to the coin. However, the numismatic value often exceeds this due to rarity, condition, and historical significance.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>