1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Coin Value (Errors List, “CC”, “O”, “S” & No Mint Mark Worth)

If you’ve recently discovered an 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar in an old collection or inherited one from a family member, you’re holding a piece of American monetary history that’s celebrating its 146th year.

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar represents the second year of this iconic series and offers something for every type of collector—from common circulated pieces valued around $50 to rare Carson City specimens that can command over $11,000 in mint state condition.

What makes the 1879 Morgan particularly interesting is the variety across different mint locations. A standard Philadelphia-minted coin (with no mint mark) in typical uncirculated condition averages around $201, making it an accessible entry point for new collectors. Meanwhile, the scarcer New Orleans issue (marked with “O”) typically sells for about $796 in similar grades, reflecting its status as the first Morgan Dollar struck at that facility after the Civil War.

Understanding these value differences based on mint mark, condition, and special characteristics like Proof-Like or Deep Mirror Proof-Like surfaces is key to appreciating what you own—and that’s exactly what this guide will help you discover.

 

1879 Morgan Silver DollarValue By Variety

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar was produced at multiple mint facilities and exists in various striking characteristics including standard strikes, proof-like finishes, and proof specimens across different mint marks.

If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Silver Dollar Coins Worth Money (Most Expensive)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Worth Money

The auction record data spanning 2001 to present reveals a market hierarchy dominated by Carson City issues and rare branch mint proofs. The 1879-CC MS66+ specimen that realized $192,000 in January 2023 represents the apex of condition rarity within this date, as only 4,123 Carson City pieces appeared in the GSA Hoard—significantly fewer than other CC dates from the 1878-1885 period.

The 1879-O proof specimens, with only 12 originally minted to commemorate the New Orleans Mint reopening and just four examples currently known to exist, command prices approaching $200,000. These branch mint proofs rank among the rarest Morgan Dollar varieties in existence, with their extreme scarcity driving sustained six-figure valuations regardless of market cycles.

The price stratification in the chart demonstrates condition sensitivity within the Carson City series. Multiple MS65-graded 1879-CC specimens occupy positions throughout the rankings at values ranging from $58,750 to $76,375, reflecting variables in strike quality, surface preservation, and eye appeal.

The Capped Die error variety, resulting from a rusted die that obscured the CC mintmark, adds numismatic interest and commands premiums of $63,250 to $120,000 in MS64-65 grades.

The inclusion of the 1879-S Reverse of 1878 variety at $63,250 in MS66 illustrates how die varieties within common-date issues can achieve significant valuations when combined with superior preservation. This variety was unknown to collectors until the 1980s, demonstrating how research continues to identify and establish market premiums for previously unrecognized scarce variations.

These auction results reflect several converging factors: limited original mintages at certain facilities, particularly Carson City’s 756,000 pieces compared to Philadelphia’s 14.8 million; survival rate disparities, with the 1879-CC exhibiting only a 1.97% survival rate and merely 207 examples grading MS65 or higher; and the concentrated collector demand for early Carson City issues.

The substantial price differential between adjacent grade levels—particularly the MS65 to MS66 transition—indicates severe condition census constraints at the top of the population reports.

The market for premium 1879 Morgan Dollars demonstrates price stability and appreciation over the documented period, with six-figure transactions occurring consistently for condition rarities. This sustained demand reflects the coin’s position as both a numismatic collectible and a tangible representation of Western mining history during the Comstock era.

 

History of the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar emerged during a transformative period in American monetary policy, born from the Bland-Allison Act of 1878. This legislation was passed in response to the Coinage Act of 1873, which had effectively ended the free coining of silver and demonetized silver bullion.

The Bland-Allison Act required the U.S. Treasury to purchase substantial amounts of silver bullion monthly and mint it into silver dollars, representing a political compromise between silver mining interests and monetary policy makers.

The impetus for this unprecedented legislative decision was closely tied to the Comstock Lode discovery in the 1850s, widely considered the first major silver strike in American history.

The Morgan Dollar was designed by George T. Morgan, a British immigrant who had been recruited to work at the Philadelphia Mint in 1876 as Assistant Engraver. Morgan established his reputation quickly, designing the first Morgan silver dollar in 1878, making the 1879 silver dollar only the second year of this series.

The year 1879 marked a significant expansion in Morgan Dollar production. The New Orleans Mint, which had been closed since the Civil War began in 1861, was reopened in 1879 specifically to produce Morgan silver dollars, making this the first year of production at that facility. Meanwhile, the San Francisco and Carson City Mints, which had begun production in 1878, continued operations due to their proximity to Western silver sources.

However, 1879 also brought challenges for the Carson City Mint. Mint leadership in Washington faced significant cost problems at the facility, noting that despite its proximity to the Comstock mines, bullion prices were higher at Carson City than San Francisco, and transportation costs for finished coins were also more expensive.

The mint received instructions in January to wind down operations and experienced an extended production pause from March through June before resuming coinage.

The Morgan Dollar series would continue production through 1904, when silver reserves were depleted, resume briefly in 1921 under the Pittman Act, and eventually be replaced by the Peace Dollar.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Morgan Silver Dollar Coins Worth Money List

 

Is your 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar rare?

Discover your coin’s true rarity with the CoinValueChecker App, which provides precise rarity scores and rankings across the entire Morgan Dollar series, helping you understand exactly where your 1879 Morgan stands among collectors worldwide.

 

Key Features of the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar continues the iconic series designed by George T. Morgan, representing the second year of production following the passage of the Bland-Allison Act.

Production for 1879 occurred at multiple U.S. Mint facilities, with business strikes manufactured at Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (marked with “S”), and Carson City (marked with “CC”), while 1879 marked the first year of production at the New Orleans facility (marked with “O”), which had reopened after being closed since the Civil War. Proof versions were also produced at the Philadelphia Mint for collectors.

The Obverse of the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar

Features a left-facing profile portrait of Liberty, modeled after Philadelphia schoolteacher Anna Willess Williams.

Liberty wears a classic Phrygian cap symbolizing freedom, adorned with cotton and wheat in her hair representing the reconciliation of Northern and Southern states following the Civil War. The word “LIBERTY” is inscribed on the headband across Liberty’s forehead.

The Latin motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Out of Many, One) arcs across the upper field, with thirteen stars encircling the design to represent the original colonies.

The year “1879” is positioned at the bottom. Designer George T. Morgan’s initial “M” can be found at the truncation of Liberty’s neck.

The Reverse of the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar

An American bald eagle with outstretched wings dominates the center of the design, clutching an olive branch in one talon and three arrows in the other. This design symbolizes the dual American desire to be prepared to defend the nation while also seeking peace.

The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears between the eagle’s wings. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” forms the outer rim inscription, with the denomination “ONE DOLLAR” displayed at the bottom.

The mint mark, when present, appears on the reverse above and between the “D” and “O” in “DOLLAR”. A wreath of laurel surrounds the lower portion, with another “M” for designer George T. Morgan on the ribbon tying the wreath.

Other Features of the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar maintains standard specifications with a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper, resulting in a total weight of 26.73 grams (412.5 grains).

The coin contains 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver. The coin’s diameter measures 38.1 millimeters (1.5 inches) with a thickness of 2.4 millimeters, and its edge features reeding for security and tactile identification.

Notably, 1879-S Morgan Dollars exist with two distinct reverse varieties: the Reverse of 1878 featuring a flat or concave eagle breast with parallel arrow feathers, and the Reverse of 1879 with a more natural, rounded convex breast and slanted top arrow feather.

Also Read: Top 80+ Most Valuable Sacagawea Dollar Worth Money (2000-P to Present)

 

1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Mintage & Survival Data

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar recorded a combined production of 27,560,100 coins across four U.S. Mint facilities, representing a significant output during the early years of the series.

Philadelphia led production with 14,806,000 pieces (no mint mark), followed by San Francisco’s 9,110,000 coins, New Orleans’s inaugural 2,887,000 strikes, and Carson City’s limited 756,000 pieces. An additional 1,100 proof strikes were produced at Philadelphia for collectors.

Survival rates reveal dramatic disparities among mint facilities. The 1879-S demonstrates the highest survival rate at 21.32%, with vast quantities stored at the San Francisco Mint through 1913 and subsequently released through Treasury disbursements in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly during the 1962-1964 silver rush. The Redfield Hoard and Continental Illinois Bank hoard further preserved substantial quantities of uncirculated San Francisco dollars.

In stark contrast, the 1879-CC exhibits the lowest survival rate at just 1.97%, with only approximately 14,900 coins surviving from the original mintage.

Only 4,123 pieces appeared in the prestigious GSA Hoard—significantly fewer than the hundreds of thousands of other Carson City dates from 1880-1885. This scarcity makes the 1879-CC the second-rarest Carson City Morgan Dollar after the 1889-CC, with merely 207 examples grading MS65 or higher.

The 1879-O survival rate of 13.81% reflects the New Orleans Mint’s operational challenges during its first year of reopening, while Philadelphia’s 10.10% rate represents typical attrition through circulation and the Pittman Act melting programs.

Among proof versions, the Cameo designation shows an exceptional 61.82% survival rate, while Deep Cameo proofs remain exceptionally scarce at 3.64%, highlighting the rarity of coins with superior contrast and preservation.

Also Read: Top 40+ Most Valuable Presidential Dollar Coins Worth Money

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Value

Understanding your 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar’s value begins with the fundamentals: mint mark, grading, and condition.

The mint mark, located on the reverse just below the ribbon and above “DO” in “DOLLAR,” immediately establishes rarity—Philadelphia coins show no mark, while “S” indicates San Francisco, “O” represents New Orleans, and the highly sought-after “CC” denotes Carson City.

The grade assigned to your coin fundamentally determines its worth, with values changing dramatically between circulated and uncirculated conditions, and even more significantly as grades ascend from MS60 to MS67.

Condition assessment requires careful examination of Liberty’s features, particularly her hair detail, ear definition, and the visibility of “LIBERTY” on her headband, as well as cotton blossom clarity.

One of the most critical factors affecting value is originality—never clean your coins, as even equal-grade examples can differ substantially at auction when one has been cleaned versus one with natural, untouched surfaces. Special surface characteristics such as Proof-Like (PL) or Deep Mirror Proof-Like (DMPL) finishes can command significant premiums, particularly on Philadelphia strikes.

Variety identification adds another layer to valuation, including distinguishing between the Reverse of 1878 and Reverse of 1879 on San Francisco issues, or identifying the Capped Die error on Carson City specimens where the mint mark appears obscured or distorted due to a rusted die.

Additional errors such as uncentered strikes, doubled rims from passing through the upsetting mill twice, or partial collar strikes further influence desirability and market value. The coin’s silver content provides a baseline melt value, but numismatic value typically far exceeds intrinsic metal worth, especially for coins with exceptional luster, strike quality, and eye appeal.

Accurately determining your 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar’s true market value requires expert analysis of all these factors combined—which is why the CoinValueChecker App provides instant, comprehensive valuations by analyzing your coin’s grade, mint mark, variety, and current market conditions in seconds.

 

1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Value Guides

• 1879 No Mint Mark Morgan Silver Dollar (Philadelphia)
• 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
• 1879-O Morgan Silver Dollar (New Orleans)
• 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar (San Francisco)
• 1879 ProofMorgan Silver Dollar (Philadelphia)
• 1879 Proof CAM Morgan Silver Dollar(Philadelphia)
• 1879 ProofDCAM Morgan Silver Dollar (Philadelphia)
• 1879-O 4 Known Proof BN Morgan Silver Dollar(Philadelphia)

The 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar value landscape encompasses a diverse spectrum of varieties across four mint facilities, each with distinct characteristics that significantly impact market worth.

Values range from modest circulated specimens to extraordinary six-figure rarities, primarily determined by mint mark, surface finish designation (standard, Proof-Like, or Deep Mirror Proof-Like), and condition grade.

Carson City issues command the highest premiums due to limited survival rates, while San Francisco dollars offer intriguing reverse varieties. Philadelphia proofs represent the pinnacle of striking quality with extremely limited production. Understanding these categorical distinctions is essential for accurate valuation and informed collecting decisions.

 

1879 No Mint Mark Morgan Silver Dollar Value

The 1879 No Mint Mark Morgan Silver Dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a mintage of 14,806,000 coins. This represents the second year of the Morgan Dollar series, which began production following the passage of the Bland-Allison Act.

This legislation mandated the U.S. Treasury to purchase Western silver and mint it into coins, making these pieces both currency and artifacts of post-Civil War American monetary policy.

The Philadelphia issue is relatively common in circulated condition, with typical examples trading around $50. Uncirculated MS60 specimens reach approximately $95, while MS65 examples command around $525.

Higher grades become increasingly scarce—examples in MS66 or better are genuinely rare across all mint marks, a result of survival challenges over nearly 150 years. Top-tier MS67 specimens have achieved auction prices up to $38,500.

Surface characteristics significantly impact value. Coins with Prooflike (PL) surfaces display semi-reflective fields, while Deep Mirror Prooflike (DMPL) examples showcase exceptionally deep, mirror-like reflectivity that rivals actual proof coins. These special surface finishes command substantial premiums in the marketplace.

You can explore the coin’s Auction Record Chart to track how values have evolved across different grades and time periods.

Market Activity for the 1879 Morgan Dollar remains consistently strong, with collectors and investors showing sustained interest in high-grade examples and those rare pieces with distinctive surface qualities.

 

1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar Value

The 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar stands as a significant key date in the Morgan series and represents one of the scarcer Carson City issues, following the 1889-CC.

With a mintage of 756,000 pieces—struck in two separate production runs before the Carson City Mint briefly suspended operations due to cost concerns—this coin carries both historical importance and genuine scarcity.

Values for circulated examples typically range from $200 to $3,200, while high-grade uncirculated specimens command $8,000 to $24,000, with exceptional pieces reaching considerably higher.

What truly distinguishes this coin are its specialized surface designations: Proof-Like (PL) examples with reflective mirror-like surfaces can bring around $35,000 in MS65 grade, while the highly sought Deep Mirror Proof-Like (DMPL) versions—featuring exceptional reflectivity and frosted devices—can command up to $90,000 or more.

The notable “Capped Die” variety, where a rusted die created an obscured mintmark, adds another layer of collectibility, with DMPL Capped Die specimens achieving prices between $7,200 and $120,000.

Only 4,123 pieces were included in the GSA Hoard, making this a particularly scarce Carson City dollar from the 1878-1885 period. At auction, a MS66+ example achieved $192,000 in January 2023, demonstrating strong market appreciation for premium-quality specimens.

From an investment perspective, the 1879-CC offers solid potential due to its established status as a condition rarity—high-grade specimens remain elusive, and collector demand continues to support strong market performance.

For those building a complete Morgan dollar collection, acquiring an 1879-CC in any grade represents a meaningful milestone, though securing examples in Gem condition (MS65 or above) presents a genuine challenge even for experienced collectors.

To better understand how this coin has performed over time, the auction record chart illustrates the notable price trajectory this Carson City issue has achieved at major numismatic sales.

Additionally, tracking the market activity for this issue reveals sustained collector interest, with the 1879-CC consistently attracting competitive bidding across various price points and grade levels.

 

1879-O Morgan Silver Dollar Value     

The 1879-O Morgan Silver Dollar carries notable historical significance as the first Morgan dollar struck at the New Orleans Mint, marking the facility’s reopening after being closed during the Civil War. With a mintage of 2,887,000 pieces, this issue represents the beginning of a new chapter for the famous “O” mintmark.

What makes this coin particularly interesting is the story behind its production—the New Orleans Mint prioritized quantity over quality to meet aggressive production quotas under the Bland-Allison Act, resulting in many coins with weaker strikes compared to other mints.

While common in lower Mint State grades, the 1879-O becomes considerably scarce in MS66 or better condition.

Standard uncirculated examples in MS65 grade typically command around $2,750, while coins with Proof-Like (PL) surfaces—featuring enhanced reflectivity—range from $300 to $11,500 depending on grade. The truly exceptional Deep Mirror Proof-Like (DMPL) versions, showcasing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements, can reach $40,000 for premium specimens.

Demonstrating strong collector appreciation for this historic “first year” issue, an MS66DMPL example achieved $34,800 at Heritage Auctions in January 2024. From a collecting standpoint, the 1879-O presents an accessible entry point for Morgan dollar enthusiasts interested in New Orleans Mint issues, though finding well-struck examples with strong eye appeal requires patience due to the production circumstances of the era.

The combination of historical importance as the inaugural New Orleans Morgan and the inherent scarcity in higher grades supports steady collector demand for quality specimens.

The auction record chart provides valuable insight into how this “first year” New Orleans issue has performed across different grade levels and surface designations over time.

Meanwhile, market activity data reflects consistent interest from both type collectors seeking representative examples and specialists pursuing premium-quality strikes from this historic reopening year.

 

1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar Value  

The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar, struck at the San Francisco Mint with a mintage of 9,110,000 pieces, represents one of the more plentiful issues in the 1879 Morgan dollar series.

What distinguishes this issue is its unique storage and release history: most of the original mintage remained stored at the San Francisco Mint and was gradually released over several decades, with particularly large distributions occurring in 1942, throughout the 1950s, and during the 1962-1964 Treasury releases.

During this period, the San Francisco Mint focused exclusively on silver dollar production in the silver series from 1879 through 1883, resulting in coins that were generally well-struck with high quality.

This substantial mintage makes the coin readily available across all grade levels—even MS67 examples appear with regular frequency at auctions.

Standard uncirculated examples typically range from $72 to $312 depending on grade, while MS68 specimens command approximately $3,600 to $5,400. What separates this common-date issue from typical availability is the scarcity of premium surface designations: Proof-Like (PL) examples with reflective surfaces range from $120 to $4,850, while Deep Mirror Proof-Like (DMPL) versions—featuring mirror-like fields with frosted design elements—are reasonably common through MS65, but become considerably more challenging in grades above that range, with values reaching $14,500 for well-preserved specimens.

Demonstrating the rarity of coins at the pinnacle of preservation, an MS68+ example achieved $32,900 at auction in December 2014. From a collecting perspective, the 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar offers accessibility for those seeking high-grade Morgan dollars or specimens with enhanced surface characteristics, though top-tier examples with PL or DMPL designations remain genuinely scarce and highly collectible.

The auction record chart clearly illustrates the price structure for this issue across different grade levels, from common circulated versions to rare premium specimens.

Market activity data reflects steady collector engagement, driven primarily by the coin’s availability at desirable grade levels and the continued appeal of superior surface characteristics.

 

1879 Proof Morgan Silver Dollar Value

 

The 1879 Proof Morgan Silver Dollar represents the second year of proof production in the series, struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint with a mintage of 1,100 pieces—one of the higher proof mintages among Morgan dollars.

What distinguishes this issue is its production purpose: unlike business strikes intended for commerce, these specially manufactured coins were created using polished dies and hand-selected planchets to achieve mirror-like surfaces and sharp detail for collectors.

Despite the relatively substantial original mintage, probably more than half the proof mintage survives today, making examples accessible to collectors, though the distribution across grades reveals interesting scarcity patterns.

Most surviving examples are found in PR64 condition or lower, while PR65 and PR66 specimens become considerably scarcer, PR67 examples are very rare, and coins achieving PR68 are exceptionally difficult to locate. This grade rarity is reflected in values, with even PR63 examples valued over $4,000.

The challenge for collectors lies not in finding an 1879 proof, but in securing examples with bold details and exceptional eye appeal—such pieces represent a minority of available specimens. The combination of accessible availability at entry grades and genuine condition rarity in Gem preservation makes this issue appealing to both beginning proof collectors and specialists pursuing superior examples.

The auction record chart demonstrates the pricing progression across grade levels, reflecting how condition dramatically impacts value for these early Morgan proofs.

Market activity data shows consistent collector interest, driven by the coin’s status as an early proof issue and the ongoing pursuit of premium-quality examples.

 

1879 Proof CAM Morgan Silver Dollar Value

The 1879 Proof Cameo Morgan Silver Dollar features frosted devices contrasting against mirrored fields, a characteristic found on the vast majority of proofs from this year.

The cameo designation indicates a specific production quality where the raised design elements retain a matte finish while the background achieves a reflective polish, creating a clear visual distinction between the two surfaces.

This contrast level represents the standard appearance for 1879 proofs, with non-cameo examples being less common and Deep Cameo specimens representing an even smaller portion of surviving coins.

Values reflect the enhanced surface quality: PR64 cameo specimens typically range from $5,100 to $5,400, PR65 examples reach approximately $7,800, and PR66 pieces command around $9,000 to $9,400.

Distribution follows typical proof patterns, with most examples grading PR60-64, while PR65 and higher specimens are scarce but can be located with patience. The 1879 Proof Cameo offers collectors access to early Morgan proof quality with desirable contrast characteristics at price points below the Deep Cameo category.

For those building proof sets or seeking representative examples of Philadelphia Mint proof production from this period, the cameo version provides a balance between visual quality and affordability.

The auction record chart tracks pricing across different grades, showing the premiums cameo designation adds compared to standard proofs.

Market activity data indicates consistent collector participation, with demand driven by both type collectors and those assembling date sets.

 

1879 Proof DCAM Morgan Silver Dollar Value

The 1879 Proof Deep Cameo Morgan Silver Dollar represents the second year of proof production in the Morgan Dollar series, with only 1,100 proof specimens struck at the Philadelphia Mint.

What sets the DCAM designation apart is the dramatic visual effect created by deeply mirrored fields paired with heavily frosted devices—a characteristic that occurs naturally on the earliest strikes from fresh dies.

From a rarity perspective, most surviving 1879 proofs grade at PR64 or lower, with PR65 and PR66 examples being considerably scarcer. Non-cameo proofs represent a minority of known specimens, and true deep cameos represent an even smaller number still.

A PR66 DCAM example has realized $21,000 at auction, while standard 1879 proof specimens typically range from $775 to $11,500 depending on grade and characteristics. As an early-year proof in the series, this coin holds particular significance for collectors building comprehensive Morgan Dollar sets.

The preservation challenge lies in maintaining both the mirror-like surfaces and the sharp frosted contrast—qualities that define the Deep Cameo designation and directly influence the coin’s collectibility.

To better understand how this coin has performed over time, you can explore the auction record chart, which traces the results of various grade levels across different sales.

Additionally, market activity data offers insight into current collector interest and the frequency with which these Deep Cameo specimens change hands.

 

1879-O 4 Known Proof BM Morgan Silver Dollar Value

 

Only 12 pieces were minted on February 20, 1879, to commemorate the reopening of the New Orleans Mint following its closure in 1861 at the onset of the Civil War. Today only four pieces are known, making this the #1 specimen as listed in Wayne Miller’s second edition of his Morgan and Peace Dollar Textbook.

This extremely rare branch-mint Morgan dollar proof is perhaps the rarest of all proof Morgans. These O-mint proofs are unknown by a large number of numismatists, and far fewer collectors have even seen one. The survival of only four examples from the original mintage of twelve establishes this as one of the most elusive coins in American numismatics.

The 1879-O is unique among branch mint proof Dollars in that it was struck from dies not listed in VAM and not used on regular production coins. The diagnostics include an overpolished back of the truncation of the neck leaving an “island” of metal, faint traces of die rust on NUM of UNUM, and a spot of die rust between the first tail feather and the second leaf below. These distinctive characteristics allow experts to authenticate the genuine specimens.

One specimen graded PR64 realized an outstanding $184,000 at a March 2010 auction. The same piece had previously sold in 1995 for $37,400, demonstrating significant appreciation over fifteen years. This issue trades for well into the six figures on the rare occasions it surfaces in the marketplace.

The price trajectory reflects the extreme scarcity and historical importance of this issue. With only four known examples in existence, each appearance at auction generates significant collector interest and competitive bidding. On the rare occasion they are offered for sale, they inspire great attention in the numismatic media and command strong bids.

The historical auction record chart provides a clear view of the coin’s value trajectory across multiple decades of numismatic sales.

On the rare occasions they are offered for sale, they inspire great attention in the numismatic media and command strong bids, reflecting consistent collector interest whenever any of the four known specimens becomes available.

Also Read: 17 Rare Dollar Coin Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Rare 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Error List

The 1879 Morgan silver dollar series includes several collectible and expensive error varieties that collectors actively seek. Many of these varieties remained largely unknown until recent decades when dealers and collectors became aware of their rarer status.

These minting variations range from die issues to repunched mintmarks, each offering unique characteristics that significantly impact their market value and desirability among numismatists.

1. 1879-CC Capped Die Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1879-CC capped die error features deformed and obscure CC mint marks that appeared because of a rusty die. This variety was struck by a rusty die which resulted in a crusty mess around the CC mintmark.

Circulated examples typically cost between $160 and $3,850, while mint state specimens range from $4,250 to $50,000. Proof-like capped die examples average $3,200 to $60,000 at auctions depending on condition, while deep mirror proof-like specimens command $7,200 to $120,000.

1879-CC VAM 3, Capped Die Morgan Silver Dollar

In late 1878 or early 1879, a reverse die was first punched with a small mint mark, but before use, a decision was made to apply the larger CC punch.

Because the larger punch was applied too low, the tops of the small CCs remained visible atop the larger ones looking like hats or caps, creating the “Capped Die” nickname.

The Mint engraver attempted to hide the original CCs by tapping around the mint mark with a blank punch, and later a press operator further damaged the mint mark area. While it is one of the more common 1879-CC varieties, it remains an interesting variety.

1879-O VAM 4/28 O/Horizontal O Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1879-O features a triple punched O mintmark, with the original description indicating the O mintmark was first punched into the die in a horizontal position.

The remnants of the previous O are clearly seen in the center of the mintmark, though some specialists believe it is actually an O/O/O north and south due to the convex configuration of the weaker images within the main O. This VAM 4 O/Horizontal O is recognized as a Top 100 variety, making it particularly sought after by collectors. Market prices reflect its status among the more desirable 1879-O varieties.

1879-S Reverse Of 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1879-S Reverse of 1878 features a flat-breasted eagle with parallel top arrow feathers, which can be identified by noting the top feather is straight and parallel along with the rest of the arrows. The Reverse of 1878 is considerably rarer than the Reverse of 1879, especially in high grades.

The variety was only discovered in the 1980s at which time its scarce nature was revealed. Average condition examples are worth $147, while uncirculated specimens can be worth $1,012 to $9,933 or more. MS-63 has proven to be an ideal grade for this scarce variety.

1879-S VAM Reverse of 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar

Six distinct Reverse of 1878 dies were used for a portion of the 1879-S Morgan dollar coinage, creating multiple VAM varieties. The Reverse of 1878 group is included in The Top 100 Morgan Dollar Varieties.

The VAM-34B variety was discovered in September 2003 and is identified by a vertical gouge in the base of the eagle’s left wing and a short die gouge from the left edge of one of the upper cotton leaves. Most of the roughly two dozen known VAM-34B examples are in the Very Fine range, making higher grade specimens particularly valuable to variety collectors.

 

Where to Sell Your 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar ?

Whether selling through auction houses, certified dealers, or online platforms, understanding your 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar’s specific variety, condition, and current market demand will help you achieve the best possible price for your coin.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

1879 Morgan Silver Dollar Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar

 1. What factors influence the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar value?

The value is influenced by mint mark, condition (or grade), rarity, and silver content, while special varieties and errors can also significantly affect value. The silver content of the 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar, which is composed of 90% silver, provides a base value tied to the current silver bullion market, though numismatic value often exceeds the melt value for collectors.

2. What is the difference between Reverse of 1878 and Reverse of 1879?

The Reverse of 1878 features an eagle with a flat or concave breast and the top arrow feather is straight and parallel with the rest of the arrows, while the Reverse of 1879 has a rounder and more convex breast appearance with a prominently slanted top feather on the arrow.

3. What is the most valuable 1879 Morgan Silver Dollar variety?

The 1879 silver dollar value in MS67 for Carson City is beyond $50,000, depending on auction history and eye appeal. A gem 1879-CC in MS66DMPL has sold for $100,000+ at auction.