7 Tips To Determine Your 1879 Silver Dollar Value

In the world of numismatics, few coins capture the imagination and desire of collectors quite like the Morgan Silver Dollar from 1879. Known for its distinctive Lady Liberty design and intricate eagle on the reverse, the value of an 1879 Silver Dollar can vary dramatically due to a multitude of factors. Whether you've stumbled upon one in an old family collection or are looking to expand your coin collection, understanding how to determine the value of your 1879 silver dollar can be both fascinating and profitable. Here, we dive into the seven key tips that will help you evaluate the worth of this remarkable coin.

1. Understanding Mintage and Rarity

The first step in determining the value of any coin, including the 1879 Silver Dollar, is to look at its mintage numbers. Coins with lower mintage are generally more valuable due to their scarcity. Here are some key points:

• Mintage Figures: The 1879 Silver Dollar was minted at several mints with varying production numbers. Check the mint marks - O for New Orleans, S for San Francisco, and CC for Carson City. Coins from the Carson City mint, in particular, are sought after due to lower mintage and historical significance.

• Surviving Population: Not all minted coins survive over time. Factors like melting, loss, or poor condition reduce the number of available specimens, which increases the rarity and value.

<p class="pro-note">🌟 Pro Tip: Always look for coins with lower surviving populations, as these tend to be rarer and, thus, more valuable.</p>

2. Condition or Grade

The condition of the coin plays a pivotal role in determining its value. Here's how to assess:

• Professional Grading: Use professional grading services like PCGS or NGC for an authoritative evaluation. They assess based on wear, luster, color, and any imperfections.

• Wear Assessment: Examine the coin for signs of wear, particularly on the high points of the design like Liberty's cheek and the eagle's breast. Coins in lower grades might still have value but are significantly less than those in higher mint state (MS) conditions.

• Luster and Eye Appeal: Coins with original luster and eye appeal can command higher prices, even if their technical grade might not be the highest.

<p class="pro-note">📘 Pro Tip: Invest in professional grading. The certification not only provides credibility but can also significantly increase the value of your coin.</p>

3. Mint Mark Significance

The mint mark tells you where your coin was made, and for collectors, this can be critical:

• Philadelphia Mint: No mint mark signifies Philadelphia, which had a high mintage but fewer proof coins.

• New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S), and Carson City (CC): These mints produced fewer coins, making their output more collectible. Carson City dollars, with their lower mintage, are particularly prized.

• Varieties: Certain varieties like the 1879-CC Rev of '78 can significantly increase value due to their uniqueness.

4. Strike Quality

The term "strike" refers to how well the dies imprinted the design onto the coin:

• Full Detail: Coins with full details, particularly in the areas that are often struck weakly, like the eagle's tail feathers, are worth more.

• Proof Coins: Proof coins were made with specially polished dies, often resulting in exceptional strike quality. These are highly valuable if in good condition.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Compare your coin to known high-quality strikes from auction records. This can help identify valuable pieces.</p>

5. Die Varieties

Die varieties can create rare and unique coins:

• Doubled Dies: This occurs when the design is struck twice, causing certain elements to appear doubled.

• Overdates: When dies were reused or re-engraved to change the date, creating rare overdate varieties.

• Rarity of Die: Certain dies, even within the same mintage, might have been used briefly, leading to rarity.

6. Surface Preservation

Surface preservation is crucial for the coin's value:

• Toning: Natural toning over time can enhance the coin's appearance, making it more appealing to collectors.

• Damage and Alterations: Avoid coins with cleaning, scratches, or other marks that could detract from their value.

<p class="pro-note">✨ Pro Tip: Use a high-resolution magnifier or microscope to closely inspect the coin for any signs of mishandling or artificial toning.</p>

7. Market Trends

The coin market, like any other, has trends:

• Supply and Demand: Rarity, collector demand, and economic conditions can all influence value.

• Auction Records: Monitoring recent auction results for 1879 Silver Dollars can give insights into current market values.

• Collector Interest: Certain varieties or grades might suddenly spike in popularity, driving up value.

Wrap-Up

The value of your 1879 Silver Dollar is influenced by a combination of its mintage, condition, mint mark, strike quality, die variety, surface preservation, and current market trends. While the intrinsic value of the silver itself provides a baseline, the true worth of these coins lies in their history, rarity, and the stories they tell.

As you delve deeper into the world of coin collecting, consider these insights not just as valuation tools but as entry points into a rich narrative of American history. Each coin has its tale, from the mines of Carson City to the bustling mints of Philadelphia. So, dust off those silver dollars, do your research, and explore the myriad ways to bring history to life.

Encouragement: Be sure to explore related tutorials for detailed guides on coin grading, cleaning, and how to start your coin collection, ensuring you're equipped to make the most out of your numismatic adventures.

<p class="pro-note">🌐 Pro Tip: Stay connected with numismatic communities online. These forums and clubs are invaluable sources for the latest trends, expert advice, and potential buying opportunities.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What makes an 1879 Silver Dollar valuable?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Scarcity, condition, mint mark, strike quality, die variety, and surface preservation all contribute to the value of an 1879 Silver Dollar.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I tell if my 1879 Silver Dollar is rare?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Look for low mintage numbers, unique mint marks like CC or special die varieties like doubled dies or overdates. Also, examine the condition, as even common coins can be valuable in mint state.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Do I need to have my coin professionally graded?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While not necessary, professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC provides credibility, potentially increasing the coin's value, and gives you an authoritative assessment of its condition.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>