The rediscovery of a forgotten 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar has reignited excitement across the coin collecting world. Found quietly tucked away in an old estate collection, this silver dollar serves as a powerful reminder that historic treasures can still surface in unexpected places. The Morgan Silver Dollar series already holds legendary status, but coins from 1879 carry special importance as part of the series’ earliest years. Their age, subtle variations, and connection to America’s silver-driven economy make them especially appealing to collectors and historians alike.
Origins of the Morgan Silver Dollar Series
The Morgan Silver Dollar was introduced in 1878 following the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver and convert it into coinage. Designed by George T. Morgan, the coin marked a departure from earlier designs with its bold, lifelike portrait of Liberty and a strong eagle on the reverse. By 1879, the Morgan Dollar was still a relatively new coin, and minting practices were evolving, leading to small but important variations that collectors now study closely.
Why the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Is Special
The 1879 issue stands out because it reflects the early experimentation of the U.S. Mint with dies, strikes, and production quality. Coins were struck at three mints: Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Carson City. Each mint produced coins with distinct characteristics, from strike sharpness to mint mark placement. These differences, while subtle, play a major role in determining desirability and value today. Collectors are especially drawn to 1879 coins because they represent the foundation of one of America’s most iconic silver dollar series.
1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Varieties and Values
Understanding the major varieties helps collectors evaluate potential value.
1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Value Table
Mint Variety Key Feature Estimated Value Range
Philadelphia Standard Strike Early design, common issue $50 – $500
Philadelphia Weak Strike Softer details, die wear $50 – $300
San Francisco Early Strike Sharper details, strong luster $200 – $2,000
San Francisco Die Variety Reverse feather differences $500 – $3,000
Carson City Standard Issue Limited mintage, western mint $1,500 – $15,000+
Carson City High Grade Original luster, minimal wear $3,000 – $20,000+
The Historical Context of the 1879 Issue
The year 1879 fell during a time of economic debate and growth in the United States. Silver mining boomed in the American West, and Carson City coins became symbols of frontier expansion and industrial ambition. The Morgan Silver Dollar itself embodied national discussions about silver versus gold-backed currency. Owning an 1879 Morgan Dollar means holding a piece of this complex financial and political history in your hand.
The Story Behind the Forgotten Discovery
The recently discovered 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar was found among family heirlooms, stored in a small cloth pouch and largely untouched for decades. Its surfaces showed natural toning rather than artificial shine, and the details remained sharp. This kind of preservation suggests the coin may have been set aside shortly after minting and forgotten as generations passed. Such stories add emotional and historical depth, making the coin even more appealing to collectors.
Rarity and Condition in Collector Valuation
While millions of Morgan Silver Dollars were produced overall, far fewer survive in high-grade condition. Coins that avoided heavy circulation and improper cleaning are increasingly rare. Collectors place a premium on original surfaces, strong strikes, and minimal contact marks. In the case of the 1879 issue, condition can dramatically affect value, especially for Carson City and San Francisco mint examples.
Collector Demand for 1879 Morgan Silver Dollars
Morgan Dollars remain one of the most actively collected U.S. coin series, and early dates consistently attract strong demand. The 1879 issue appeals to both type collectors and those assembling complete date and mint mark sets. Carson City coins are particularly desirable due to their lower mintages and association with the western silver boom. As high-quality examples become scarcer, competition among collectors continues to grow.
Investment Potential of the 1879 Morgan Dollar
Not every 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar is a high-dollar rarity, but coins with strong eye appeal, scarce varieties, or exceptional grades have shown steady appreciation over time. Collectors often view these coins as long-term holds rather than short-term investments. Their blend of historical importance and consistent demand makes them attractive assets within the numismatic market.
Authentication and Professional Grading
Authentication is essential when dealing with Morgan Silver Dollars, as counterfeits do exist. Professional grading services evaluate weight, composition, strike quality, and surface characteristics to confirm authenticity. Certified coins are easier to buy, sell, and insure, and they often command higher prices due to buyer confidence.
Preserving a Historic Silver Dollar
Proper storage is critical to maintaining value. Coins should be kept in archival-quality holders and stored in stable environments with controlled humidity. Cleaning should always be avoided, as it can permanently damage surfaces and reduce collector value. Original toning and untouched surfaces are often more desirable than artificially bright coins.
Why Discoveries Like This Matter to Collectors
The excitement surrounding a forgotten 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar reflects what makes coin collecting so compelling. These discoveries connect people to history, family stories, and national heritage. They also serve as reminders that remarkable coins are not limited to museums or auctions and may still exist in ordinary homes.
Final Verdict
The forgotten 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar stands as a powerful example of why this series continues to captivate collectors. Its early place in Morgan Dollar history, combined with subtle mint variations and strong collector demand, gives it lasting appeal. Whether valued as a historical artifact, a family heirloom, or a long-term collectible, the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar proves that extraordinary treasures can still emerge from the most unexpected places.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available sources, historical records, and general numismatic market observations that may change over time due to market conditions, grading standards, or new discoveries. Coin values mentioned are approximate and can vary significantly based on condition, authentication, and timing of sale. This content should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to verify details with certified grading services or qualified numismatic professionals before buying, selling, or insuring any collectible coins.