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The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is a U.S. coin designed by George T. Morgan, composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.
It was minted at four facilities: Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S), Carson City (CC), and New Orleans (O) with approximately 24.6 million coins struck in total.
1879 Morgan Silver Dollar’s value ranges dramatically based on mint mark, condition, and variety. Common circulated examples sell for $60-$100, while rare specimens fetch tens of thousands of dollars.
The Carson City issues are particularly scarce and valuable, especially the “Capped Die” variety. Notable rarities include the “Reverse of 1878” variety and proof coins.
Philadelphia produced about 1,100 1879 Morgan Silver proofs for collectors, while New Orleans struck only 12 extremely rare branch mint proofs worth six figures.
Collectors should beware of counterfeits, which can be identified through poor detail, incorrect weight (authentic coins weigh 26.73 grams), grainy texture, and inconsistent toning.
Learn more below!
What is an 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar?
An 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is a classic U.S. dollar coin struck in 1879. It features Lady Liberty on the front (obverse) and an eagle on the back (reverse).
This coin was designed by George T. Morgan. It’s made from 90% silver and 10% copper and was minted at four different mints (Philadelphia, Carson City, San Francisco and New Orleans).
1879 Silver Morgan’s are popular coins sought after by collectors for their historical appeal and high silver content.
| Design | Lady Liberty in profile (obverse) wearing a Phrygian cap with a laurel wreath. She's surrounded by 13 stars and the date. Reverse shows a heraldic bald eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, encircled by the motto "E Pluribus Unum" and the coin's face value. |
| Year of issue | 1879 |
| Mint marks | "S" (San Francisco); Philadelphia (no mint mark); "O" (New Orleans); Carson City (CC) |
| Mintage | ~24,600,000 |
| Denomination | $1 |
| Alloy | 90% pure silver and 10% copper. |
| Weight | 26.73 grams (0.859 troy ounces) |
| Diameter | 38.1 millimeters (1.5 inches). |
| Edge | Reeded |
| OBV Designer | George T. Morgan |
| REV Designer | George T. Morgan |
Which Mints Struck the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars?
The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars were struck at four different U.S. Mints:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark);
- San Francisco (S);
- New Orleans (O);
- and Carson City (CC),
These four mints together produced roughly 24.6 million 1879 Silver Morgan Dollar coins with roughly 8% surviving until today and ~92% being permanently lost to time.
| Mint | 1879 Silver Morgan Dollar Mintage | Survival Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 14.8 million | 730,000 (~5%) |
| San Francisco | 9.1 million | 850,000 (~8%) |
| Carson City | 756,000 | 10,000-15,000 (~2%) |
| New Orleans | >3 million | 300,000 (~10%) |
Are you a proud American who loves the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars and precious metal coins in general? Check this out next if you answered yes!
What is the Value and Worth of 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars?
The value of an individual 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar varies dramatically, from around $60-$100 for common circulated examples to thousands for pristine, rare varieties.
For example, some special “CC” mint mark or “Reverse of 1878” types in top condition are able to fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auctions. Key valuation factors are mint mark (CC, S, O, Philadelphia), condition (grade), and specific varieties (like Proofs or DMPL).
Below are value tables showing you how much money you can make if you own one of these special silver coins.
The values are based on recorded sales of those rare and valuable coins+ current auction data.
What is the Value and Worth of 1879 Philadelphia Morgan Silver Dollars?
The value of 1879 Philadelphia Morgan Silver Dollars ranges from ~$160 for circulated and worn out coins to >$52,000 for coins in perfect condition.
| Mint Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-60 | $160-$400 |
| MS-61 | 200-$500 |
| MS-62 | 250-$600 |
| MS-63 | 400-$800 |
| MS-64 | 450-900 |
| MS-65 | 600-$1,100 |
| MS-66 | 1,200-$5,000 |
| MS-67 | 23,000- $29,500 |
| MS-68 | >30,000-$32,000 |
| MS-69 | 33,000-$45,000 |
| MS-70 | >$52,000 |
What is the Value and Worth of 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollars?
The value of 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollars ranges from ~$100 for circulated and worn out coins to >$35,000 for coins in perfect condition.
| Mint Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-60 | 70-$100 |
| MS-61 | 80-250 |
| MS-62 | 200-$350 |
| MS-63 | 400-$600 |
| MS-64 | 700-$900 |
| MS-65 | 800-$1,000 |
| MS-66 | 1100-$1,200 |
| MS-67 | 1300-$2,000 |
| MS-68 | 2,400-$4,000 |
| MS-69 | 15,000-$30,000 |
| MS-70 | >$35,000 |
What is the Value and Worth of 1879-O Morgan Silver Dollars?
The value of 1879-O Morgan Silver Dollars ranges from ~$100 for circulated and worn out coins to >$50,000 for coins in perfect condition.
| Mint Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-60 | 70-$100 |
| MS-61 | 90-$200 |
| MS-62 | 100-$250 |
| MS-63 | 130-$400 |
| MS-64 | 150-$850 |
| MS-65 | 2,000-$3,000 |
| MS-66 | 3,100-5,000 |
| MS-67 | 6,000-$28,000 |
| MS-68 | 9,000-$30,000 |
| MS-69 | 35,000-$45,000 |
| MS-70 | >$50,000 |
Are you a proud American who loves the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars and precious metal coins in general? Check this out next if you answered yes!
What is the Value and Worth of 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollars?
The value of 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollars ranges from ~$4,000 for circulated and worn out coins to >$230,000 for coins in perfect condition.
Carson City’s 1879 Silver Morgan’s are the rarest and hence the most valuable. See the value table+ images below.
| Mint Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-60 | 3,700-$4,300 |
| MS-61 | 4,000-$7,000 |
| MS-62 | 7,000-$10,000 |
| MS-63 | 8,000-$12,000 |
| MS-64 | 9,000-$20,000 |
| MS-65 | 20,000-$40,000 |
| MS-66 | 60,000-$190,000 |
| MS-67 | 70,000->$195,000 |
| MS-68 | >$200,000 |
| MS-69 | >$220,000 |
| MS-70 | >$230,000 |
Are you a proud American who loves the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars and precious metal coins in general? Check this out next if you answered yes!
Are There 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Without Mint Marks?
Yes, there’re 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars without mint marks. In fact they’re very common as all 1879 Silver Morgan’s minted at Philadelphia were struck without mint marks.
At that time Philadelphia was U.S.’s primary mint and it was thought coins minted there didn’t need any mint mark.
Things changed when new Mint branches opened and the “P” mark became standard. This first happened in 1942 with U.S. nickels.
Are you a proud American who loves the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars and precious metal coins in general? Check this out next if you answered yes!
Are There Any Mint Errors Associated With1879 Morgan Silver Dollar?Â
Yes, 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars have several known mint errors. These include off-center strikes, struck-through errors, broad strikes, and the rare “Reverse of 1878” with valuable examples found at all four mints (P, CC, S, O).
Here’re some examples of 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar mint errors.
What is 1879-CC Capped Die?
An 1879-CC Capped Die is a specific variety of the Morgan Silver Dollar struck at the Carson City Mint. It’s known for a distinct error where crusty die rust creates raised “caps” or dimples around the “CC” mintmark.
This variety resulted from mint workers attempting to clean a worn die, leading to a partially filled mintmark.
Note: 1879-CC Capped Die Silver Dollar is cataloged as VAM-3. You’ll know what that means if you’re a Morgan Dollar enthusiast.
What is 1879-S Uncentered Broad Strike?
An 1879-S Uncentered Broad Strike is a rare Morgan silver dollar error coin from the San Francisco Mint.
Here the metal blank (planchet) wasn’t centered correctly when struck, causing the design to expand beyond the normal diameter (broadstrike) while remaining fully present, but off-center.
This is unlike a typical off-center strike where part of the design is cut off.
What is 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar Reverse of 1878?
The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar “Reverse of 1878” is a specific, scarcer variety of the common 1879 San Francisco Morgan dollar. It’s identified by a flatter eagle breast, parallel top arrow feather (PAF), and a less prominent, concave-centered breast on the heraldic eagle.
This particular variety is a favorite among collectors and commands a significant premium, especially in uncirculated condition, as it was a short-lived die used briefly at the San Francisco mint.
Are you a proud American who loves the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars and precious metal coins in general? Check this out next if you answered yes!
1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Proofs- Do They Exist?
Yes, 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar proofs do exist. They were officially produced at the Philadelphia Mint and a very limited number were struck as “branch mint proofs” at the New Orleans Mint.
The Philadelphia Mint produced an official mintage of approximately 1,100 Proof Morgan Dollars in 1879. These coins were intended for collectors and are characterized by a sharp strike, deeply mirrored fields, and sometimes frosted design elements (cameo contrast).
A significant portion of the original mintage survived until today, making them available to collectors who seek an example to add to their collection. High-grade pieces (above PR64) are much scarcer and command higher prices.
In addition to the Philadelphia issues, a very small number of Proof Morgan Dollars were struck at the New Orleans Mint (indicated by an “O” mint mark) in 1879 to commemorate the reopening of the facility.
Note: the 1879-O branch mint proofs are extremely rare. Only 12 of them were minted and only a few examples (fewer than 6) are traced to date. They are considered major numismatic rarities and have sold for six-figure prices at auctions.
Carson City and San Francisco Mints didn’t produce any 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar proofs.
Are you a proud American who loves the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars and precious metal coins in general? Check this out next if you answered yes!
Do Fake 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars Exist? How to Spot and Recognize Them?
Yes, fake 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars exist, and counterfeiters made and still make them due to their desirability and value as the second year of this coin series.
Here’re are some common signs of fake 1879 Silver Morgan’s for you to learn so you don’t get duped.
- Poor detail. Look for blurry, mushy, or flat details, especially in the hair, stars, and date.
- Grainy/sandy texture. 1879 Morgan Silver fakes often have a rough, grainy, or porous surface instead of the smooth finish of a genuine coin.
- Inconsistent toning. Artificial toning (dye/stain) looks unnatural; real toning develops slowly.
- Metal composition. Genuine 1879 Morgan silver coins are made from 90% silver and 10% copper. Fake coins can be made of brass, nickel, zinc, or other alloys, sometimes even passing the magnet test.
- Weight. Authentic Silver Morgan’s weigh about 26.73 grams (with slight tolerance).
Fakes are often thicker or the wrong diameter, though some replicate weight well. - Edge. 1879 Silver Morgan’s have reeded edges, whereas replicas might have weak, uneven, or missing reeding (ridges) on the edge. The edge might also look plated rather than solid.
- Mintmark. Fake Silver Morgan’s often have plain, poorly struck, or oddly placed mintmarks, or obvious signs of alteration.
Here’re some examples of fake 1879 Morgan Silver coins.
Are you a proud American who loves the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars and precious metal coins in general? Check this out next if you answered yes!
What is 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar? What is the Value and Worth of This Silver Dollar Coin? Conclusion
The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is a popular coin made of 90% silver, minted at Philadelphia (no mark), San Francisco (S), Carson City (CC), and New Orleans (O).
Its value is highly dependent on mint mark, condition (grade), and rare varieties like the 1879-CC Capped Die or Proof coins. Individual 1879 Morgan Silver dollars are valued at $60-$100 for circulated examples up to tens or hundreds of thousands for top-grade rarities.
Be cautious of counterfeits, which can be identified by poor detail, incorrect weight and grainy texture.
References:
- 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar Capped Die *Top 100* – U.S. Coin Prices from our Auction Archive- https://www.greatcollections.com/Auction-Archive/US-Coin-Prices/13/Silver-and-Trade-Dollars/55/Morgan-Silver-Dollars/7088/1879-CC-Morgan-Silver-Dollar-Capped-Die
- 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar $1 – Certified PCGS XF40 (EF40) – Carson City Coin!- https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/item/1879-cc-1-capped-die/97089/2452295817599670023
- 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar $1 F12 Capped Dies PCGS 17th Lowest Morgan Mintage- https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/item/1879-cc-1-capped-die/97089/7679567623952029985
- 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar. Clear CC. MS-65 (NGC).- https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/item/1879-cc-1/7086/-789811356676667365
- Morgan Dollar, 1879-CC MS- https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1879-cc-ms/97087
- 1879-O $1 (Regular Strike)- https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1879-o-1/7090
- 1879-O $1 PR64 Cameo NGC. The 1879-O branch mint proof … https://coins.ha.com/itm/proof-morgan-dollars/1879-o-1-pr64-cameo-ngc-the-1879-o-branch-mint-proof/a/288-4287.s
- Morgan Dollar, 1879-O MS- https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1879-o-ms/97091
- Morgan Silver Dollar 1879-S- https://learn.apmex.com/coin-values/morgan-silver-dollar-value/1879-s/
- 1879-CC $1 Capped Die (Regular Strike)-https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1879-cc-1-capped-die/7088
- 1879 S Morgan Dollars : Reverse of 1878
Early Silver Dollars-https://www.usacoinbook.com/coins/3196/dollars/morgan/1879-S/reverse-of-1878/ - 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar $1 (Proof)- https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1879-1/7314
- A significant portion of the original mintage is believed to survive today, making them generally available to collectors who seek an example, although high-grade pieces (above PR64) are much scarcer and command higher prices.- https://www.greysheet.com/prices/item/1879-o-branch-mint-morgan-dollar-proof/gsid/7883
- How much is this worth? 1879 silver dollar I think- https://www.reddit.com/r/coins/comments/1ftxnhj/how_much_is_this_worth_1879_silver_dollar_i_think/
- I got this 1879-CC Morgan at auction. It is either counterfeit or a 1879-CC VAM-6.- https://www.reddit.com/r/coins/comments/vdzwbc/i_got_this_1879cc_morgan_at_auction_it_is_either/
- Counterfeit 1879-CC Morgan- https://www.reddit.com/r/Silverbugs/comments/1b9h4la/counterfeit_1879cc_morgan/
Nikola Roza
Nikola Roza is a blogger behind Nikola Roza- SEO for the Poor and Determined. He writes for bloggers who don't have huge marketing budget but still want to succeed. Nikola is passionate about precious metals IRAs and how to invest in gold and silver for a safer financial future. Learn about Nikola here.
