-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 51708
Checkout
The 1878-S Morgan Silver Dollar, graded MS65 by PCGS, is a prime example of the artistry and craftsmanship that defined the United States Mint during the late 19th century. The coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which was known for producing high-quality silver dollars during the era. The 1878 date holds significant historical importance as it marked the beginning of the Morgan Dollar series, one of the most widely collected and beloved coin series in American numismatics. The “S” mintmark indicates that this particular coin was minted in San Francisco, a mint that played a key role in the coinage of the American West during a period of expansion and industrialization.
The Morgan Dollar was designed by George T. Morgan, an engraver at the United States Mint. His design features the profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse, with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." Surrounding her head are thirteen stars, symbolizing the original thirteen American colonies. The reverse of the coin depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons, representing peace and readiness to defend the nation. The coin also features the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” along the top, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Out of Many, One) beneath the eagle, with the denomination “ONE DOLLAR” prominently displayed. This design, which became iconic in American coinage, has remained a symbol of strength and unity in U.S. history.
The 1878 Morgan Dollar was the first year in the series, and the coin was minted in large quantities. Approximately 9,760,000 examples of the 1878-S Morgan Dollar were struck, making it one of the more widely minted dates in the series. However, due to the high demand for silver coins in the late 19th century and the significant circulation of many of the coins, finding examples in excellent condition is rare. The 1878-S is considered one of the more available dates, but high-quality examples, such as the MS65 grade, are still highly sought after by collectors. As a result, coins like this one—struck in San Francisco and graded at MS65—represent not only a piece of history but also an opportunity to own a stunning example of U.S. coinage from the late 1800s.
The 1878-S Morgan Dollar is a part of a broader historical context that includes the economic and political climate of the United States during the late 19th century. Following the Civil War, the U.S. economy began to recover, and industrialization and westward expansion were in full swing. The mining of silver, particularly in places like Nevada, played a significant role in shaping the economy. The 1878 Silver Coinage Act and the subsequent passage of the Bland-Allison Act of 1878 mandated the minting of large quantities of silver coins to stabilize the monetary system. The Morgan Dollar was a result of these efforts, and its production symbolized the United States' embrace of both silver and the growing demand for coins that could be used in daily commerce across the nation.
The 1878-S Morgan Dollar graded MS65 by PCGS represents a coin that has been well-preserved and is in near-mint condition. The "MS65" grade indicates that the coin is in mint state, with minimal signs of wear and few contact marks. The coin has retained its sharp details, and the strike is strong, which is a testament to the quality of the San Francisco Mint’s production during this period. The additional "PL" (Prooflike) designation on the obverse indicates that the coin has reflective surfaces, a characteristic often seen on coins that were struck with polished dies. This feature adds to the coin’s aesthetic appeal and makes it stand out even more in a collection of Morgan Dollars. The reflective surfaces, combined with the high grade of MS65, make this example particularly desirable for numismatists and collectors.
The minting process of the Morgan Dollar involved the use of high-quality dies, and the coins were struck multiple times to ensure the details were sharp. However, because the coins were designed for circulation, many of them were worn down over time through daily use, leading to a scarcity of high-quality examples. Coins like the 1878-S in MS65 grade are much less common and are often considered a highlight of any collection. The "PL" designation on this coin is particularly significant, as it indicates that the surfaces are reflective, which is a feature more commonly found on proof coins. This makes the 1878-S Morgan Dollar MS65 a rare and exceptional example of a coin that has been well-preserved for more than 140 years.
The reverse of the 1878-S Morgan Dollar, which features the image of an eagle, is one of the most iconic representations of American coinage. The eagle holds an olive branch and arrows in its talons, symbolizing the nation's desire for peace while maintaining the ability to defend itself. This imagery was designed to convey strength and unity, values that were important to the country during the late 19th century. The reverse also includes the coin’s denomination and the inscription "E PLURIBUS UNUM," reinforcing the idea of a united nation made up of many states. The eagle's wings are wide-spread, symbolizing protection and freedom, and it serves as a reminder of the power and endurance of the United States during a time of both growth and challenges.
The 1878-S Morgan Silver Dollar in MS65 with Prooflike surfaces is a valuable coin for collectors and investors alike. Its historical significance, combined with its high grade and stunning design, make it a key piece in any Morgan Dollar collection. The coin's rarity, combined with the iconic imagery of Lady Liberty and the eagle, gives it an enduring appeal that will continue to captivate collectors for generations to come. For those seeking to own a piece of American numismatic history, the 1878-S Morgan Dollar MS65 with Prooflike surfaces is an exceptional choice that stands as a testament to the legacy of one of the most beloved coin designs in U.S. history.