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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1880/9-S MS63 PCGS is a remarkable example of a prominent overdate variety, representing both a significant mint error and an enduring object of numismatic fascination. This overdate, where the last digit of the date was repunched from a 9 to an 0, is a visible and dramatic die variety that adds historical depth to any Morgan Dollar collection. Certified by PCGS in Mint State 63, the coin offers strong eye appeal, attractive mint luster, and enough detail to fully showcase its distinguishing characteristics, while preserving its uncirculated status and originality.
The Morgan Dollar series began in 1878 and continued through 1921, becoming one of the most widely collected coin types in the United States. Designed by George T. Morgan, the coin was struck in large numbers across several mints, including San Francisco, where this particular issue was produced. The 1880/9-S Morgan Dollar is notable for its early date overstrike—a relatively rare feature within the series. The overdate occurred when a leftover 1879-dated die was repunched with the new 1880 date, leaving remnants of the original 9 visible beneath the 0. This is more than a mere curiosity; it’s a testament to the U.S. Mint's frugal die usage and adaptation practices during the era.
On the obverse, the classic portrait of Liberty faces left, crowned with a Phrygian cap bearing a ribbon that reads “LIBERTY.” Her hair is elaborately curled and decorated with cotton and wheat, symbols of American agriculture and prosperity. Around the upper rim is the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and thirteen stars representing the original colonies flank the portrait. Below, the date “1880” is clearly visible, but in the 1880/9 overdate variety, keen-eyed observers can detect traces of the numeral 9 beneath the 0. This overdate effect is best seen under magnification and is the primary diagnostic feature confirming the VAM attribution for this variety.
The reverse showcases a powerful heraldic eagle with wings fully spread, grasping arrows and an olive branch, signifying strength and peace. A laurel wreath surrounds the lower part of the eagle, while the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears above in Gothic script. Encircling the design are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR.” Below the wreath and between the ribbon ends lies the “S” mintmark, indicating that this coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint. The reverse design, like the obverse, remains true to George T. Morgan’s original vision and is rendered with high detail in MS63 condition.
The San Francisco Mint, renowned for producing coins of exceptional quality, played a crucial role in Morgan Dollar production. The 1880/9-S overdate variety was the result of the reuse of 1879 reverse dies and the retooling of obverse dies to extend die life and conserve production resources. Overdates like this one were more common during the 19th century but became increasingly rare in later years. The “1880/9” overdate is listed in the Red Book and is widely recognized among collectors for its bold repunching and unusual date appearance.
PCGS has graded this example MS63, meaning the coin is in fully uncirculated condition with mint luster intact and all major design features sharply struck. MS63 is considered a solid collector grade, often balancing affordability with eye appeal. While minor contact marks may be present in the fields or on Liberty’s cheek, none are severe enough to distract from the coin’s overall beauty. The reverse eagle typically shows strong feather detail, and the “S” mintmark is sharp and well-formed. Luster may vary from frosty to semi-prooflike, depending on the die state and original planchet quality.
One of the coin’s most desirable traits is the clear overdate. This is not a subtle variety; with modest magnification, the underlying 9 is plainly visible beneath the 0 in the date. In the VAM (Van Allen–Mallis) cataloging system, the 1880/9-S appears under several entries, including prominent varieties such as VAM-11 and VAM-12, depending on die state and doubling. Collectors of VAM Morgan Dollars often seek out overdates like this one, as they represent unusual and unintentional changes in die preparation that are well-documented and appreciated within the hobby.
The coin’s encapsulation by PCGS ensures the authenticity of both the grade and the overdate variety. PCGS is one of the most respected third-party grading services in the numismatic world, and their certification lends confidence and transparency to buyers and collectors. Their MS63 grade ensures that the coin has not been cleaned or damaged, and it accurately reflects a coin that has not entered circulation but does display some minor marks or abrasions from the minting and handling process. Collectors prefer certified examples of variety coins like the 1880/9-S to confirm authenticity and protect long-term value.
The mintage for all 1880-S Morgan Dollars totaled approximately 8.9 million, but the exact number of 1880/9 overdate coins within that total is unknown. What is certain is that the overdate represents a small percentage of the total output and is less commonly encountered than standard-date examples. The scarcity increases as grade levels rise, making MS63 examples particularly desirable. These coins are sought after not only by Morgan specialists but also by type collectors and those building Red Book or VAM sets. The variety has a strong following, and well-preserved specimens like this one remain in steady demand.
From a market perspective, the 1880/9-S MS63 enjoys solid support among collectors who value both rarity and visual interest. The overdate draws attention, and the PCGS certification assures buyers of the coin’s legitimacy and quality. Pricing reflects its variety status and grade, placing it above common-date 1880-S Morgan Dollars but still within reach for many collectors seeking an iconic and educational piece of 19th-century U.S. coinage history. Its blend of Mint State preservation, famous overdate status, and Western mint origin offers a compelling combination that is rarely matched in the series.
The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1880/9-S MS63 PCGS is a dynamic and historically rich coin that captures the ingenuity and imperfections of early U.S. Mint production. As both a Mint State collectible and a standout die variety, it offers a unique blend of history, artistry, and numismatic intrigue. Whether added to a date-mint Morgan set, a VAM collection, or as a stand-alone conversation piece, this coin delivers depth, character, and enduring value in one of the most beloved series in American numismatics.