1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar NGC MS-63

The 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar graded NGC MS-63 represents one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in American numismatic history. This exceptional specimen from the San Francisco Mint combines historical significance, silver content, and remarkable preservation, making it an outstanding addition to any serious coin collection.

About the 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar

Minted during a pivotal era in American coinage, the 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar stands as a testament to late 19th-century craftsmanship and the nation's economic prosperity. The "S" mint mark denotes this coin's origin from the San Francisco Mint, one of the most prolific facilities for Morgan Dollar production during the 1879 coining year.

The Morgan Silver Dollar series, produced from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921, has maintained its position as one of the most collected and revered American coins. Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, these coins were minted to fulfill the Bland-Allison Act's requirement to purchase and coin silver bullion.

Outstanding Condition: NGC MS-63 Grade

This 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar has been certified by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), one of the world's most respected third-party coin grading services. The MS-63 grade—which stands for Mint State 63—indicates this coin displays excellent quality with only minor imperfections visible under close examination.

A Mint State grade confirms that this coin has never been in circulation and retains its original mint luster. The MS-63 designation specifically means the coin may exhibit slight surface marks or contact marks consistent with careful handling during the minting and bagging process, but maintains strong eye appeal and significant collector value.

Coins graded MS-63 occupy an attractive sweet spot for collectors: they offer premium preservation and visual appeal without the extreme premiums associated with higher grades like MS-65 or higher. This makes the MS-63 grade an excellent choice for collectors seeking quality and value.

Product Specifications

• Year Minted: 1879
• Mint Mark: S (San Francisco Mint)
• Denomination: One Dollar
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Gross Weight: 26.73 grams
• Pure Silver Content: Approximately 24.06 grams
• Diameter: 38.1 millimeters
• Thickness: Approximately 2.40 millimeters
• Edge: Reeded
• Designer: George T. Morgan (obverse and reverse)
• Certification Body: NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
• Grade: MS-63 (Mint State 63)
• Total Mintage (1879 S): Approximately 9,110,000 coins

Design and Artistic Merit

The obverse of the Morgan Silver Dollar features Lady Liberty in profile, facing left, adorned with a Phrygian cap. Her hair flows gracefully, and the inscription "LIBERTY" appears prominently above her portrait. The date "1879" is positioned below, with the mint mark "S" placed to the left of the date on this San Francisco issue.

The reverse displays an impressive eagle with wings spread wide, clutching arrows and an olive branch—symbols representing strength and peace. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" curves along the top, while "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of Many, One) appears above the eagle. The denomination "ONE DOLLAR" is inscribed at the bottom of the reverse, with "IN GOD WE TRUST" positioned just above.

George T. Morgan's design work represents some of the finest American coinage artistry, with careful attention to detail and balanced composition that continues to captivate collectors and numismatists more than 140 years after its creation.

Historical Significance of the 1879 Coining Year

The year 1879 holds particular importance in American monetary history. This was the second full year of Morgan Dollar production following the resumption of silver dollar coinage under the Bland-Allison Act of 1878. This legislation mandated the U.S. Treasury to purchase between $2 million and $4 million worth of silver monthly and convert it into silver dollars.

The 1879 coining year saw substantial production across multiple mints, with the San Francisco Mint producing over 9 million Morgan Dollars. While this represents significant mintage, well-preserved examples graded MS-63 and above remain desirable among collectors due to the natural losses that occur over time through circulation, melting, and damage.

Silver Content and Bullion Value

Beyond its numismatic value as a collectible coin, the 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar possesses intrinsic value based on its substantial silver content. With approximately 24.06 grams of pure silver, this coin represents a meaningful holding for those interested in precious metals investment.

The composition of 90% silver and 10% copper was standard for U.S. circulating silver dollars of this era, before the move toward debased coinage in later decades. This high silver content made Morgan Dollars extremely popular among collectors and investors alike, especially during periods of economic uncertainty or fluctuating precious metals prices.

Why Choose the 1879 S Morgan Dollar?

Historical Significance: Own a piece of American monetary history from a transformative period in U.S. coinage and economics.

Exceptional Preservation: The MS-63 grade certification ensures you receive a coin that has been professionally evaluated and authenticated by industry experts.

Artistry and Design: The Morgan Dollar is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint, featuring exceptional detail and balanced design.

Collector Appeal: Morgan Dollars maintain strong demand among numismatists, making them excellent for building or expanding a quality collection.

Precious Metals Content: The significant silver content provides intrinsic value alongside numismatic premium.

San Francisco Mint Pedigree: Coins from the San Francisco Mint hold particular appeal for mint-mark collectors and those specializing in West Coast numismatic history.

Authentication and Grading Assurance

The NGC certification that accompanies this 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar provides independent, professional verification of its authenticity and grade. The Numismatic Guaranty Company employs advanced analytical techniques and experienced numismatists to ensure every coin meets rigorous standards.

The protective NGC holder safeguards the coin from environmental damage while providing a professional presentation suitable for display or storage. The label includes detailed information including the coin's specifications, grade, and a unique certification number for verification purposes.

Investment Considerations

Morgan Silver Dollars, particularly well-preserved examples from key dates and mint marks, have demonstrated consistent appreciation and collector demand over time. The MS-63 grade represents an optimal balance between premium quality and accessible pricing compared to extremely high grades.

Collectors have long recognized Morgan Dollars as reliable holdings that combine aesthetic beauty, historical significance, and precious metals content. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist, beginning collector, or precious metals investor, the 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar offers compelling value.

Perfect Addition to Your Collection

The 1879 S Morgan Silver Dollar NGC MS-63 represents an exceptional opportunity to own a genuinely historic American coin in outstanding condition. Whether you're completing a date set, building a collection of San Francisco Mint coins, or seeking a premium example of this iconic series, this specimen offers authenticity, quality, and lasting value.

Acquire this remarkable piece of American numismatic heritage today and enjoy the satisfaction of owning a coin that bridges history, artistry, and investment potential.