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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1880 MS64 ANACS is a shining example of one of the most historically significant and numismatically rich coins in American history. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint during the early years of the Morgan Dollar series, this particular coin is certified Mint State 64 by ANACS, indicating a near-gem specimen with only minor imperfections. The coin’s striking detail, vibrant luster, and overall preservation make it an appealing acquisition for both seasoned collectors and those building a high-grade type set of U.S. coinage. The 1880 issue, especially from Philadelphia, offers an excellent representation of the design and technical refinement characteristic of the Morgan Dollar series.
The Morgan Dollar was born out of the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, a legislative measure that required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver and coin it into silver dollars. This measure was an effort to satisfy both silver mining interests and the demand for a bimetallic currency standard. The coin takes its name from its designer, George T. Morgan, an English-born engraver who brought a fresh, classical aesthetic to American coinage. His design replaced the Seated Liberty dollar and immediately became a hallmark of U.S. silver coinage for its bold, patriotic, and refined appearance. First issued in 1878, the series ran until 1904 and then resumed briefly in 1921.
The obverse of the coin features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, modeled after Anna Willess Williams, who was chosen by Morgan to symbolize the American spirit. She wears a Phrygian cap with a band inscribed “LIBERTY,” along with a crown made of wheat and cotton, representing unity between the North and South. Surrounding her are thirteen stars representing the original colonies, the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and the date “1880.” On this MS64 example, the obverse is sharply struck with crisp detail in the hair strands, cap, and facial features. The fields retain their original mint luster and show only minimal contact marks that keep the coin from reaching gem status.
The reverse of the Morgan Dollar depicts a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, signifying both peace and military readiness. The eagle is framed by a laurel wreath, and the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “ONE DOLLAR” encircle the perimeter. On Philadelphia Mint coins such as this one, there is no mintmark, making the coin's origin identifiable only by the absence of a letter beneath the wreath. The reverse on this coin is exceptionally well-struck, with full feathering on the eagle’s breast and wings—an attribute highly prized by collectors.
The 1880 Morgan Dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint had a mintage of 12,600,000 pieces, making it a readily available date among collectors. However, what makes the year especially interesting is the large number of known die varieties and overdates. Among these are the famous 1880/79 overdate varieties, as well as other repunched digits. While this particular MS64 example may not be a VAM-attributed variety, 1880 remains a focal point for specialists due to the vast die pairings and subtleties in production. Even standard 1880 Philadelphia issues without known varieties are highly regarded for their strike quality and overall presentation.
ANACS, the oldest third-party grading service in the United States, is known for its rigorous and conservative grading standards. An MS64 grade from ANACS confirms that the coin is in Mint State condition, having never been in circulation, and displays full mint luster with minimal marks in non-focal areas. The “64” designation places it just below gem status, meaning it has above-average eye appeal and superior surface quality. For collectors looking for a high-end example without the premium of a gem-grade coin, an MS64 from ANACS presents a compelling opportunity.
Surface preservation is critical in Mint State grading, and this coin’s satin-like luster and minimal abrasions make it a standout. Contact marks are light and mainly confined to Liberty’s cheek or the open fields—common areas for bag marks during the minting and distribution process. The coin’s reflective surfaces and sharp design elements give it an appealing visual contrast that enhances its collectibility. Many collectors of Morgan Dollars focus on coins graded MS64 and MS65 as they provide the best balance of quality and value before prices increase substantially in higher grades.
The physical specifications of the Morgan Dollar contribute to its enduring popularity. Each coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, weighs 26.73 grams, and has a diameter of 38.1 millimeters. These dimensions, along with the reeded edge, give the coin a substantial, satisfying presence in hand. Because of their silver content, Morgan Dollars have long appealed to both numismatists and bullion investors. However, certified examples like this MS64 piece are primarily valued for their numismatic attributes, particularly their condition and eye appeal.
The history of the 1880 Morgan Dollar is tied not just to legislative and minting policy but also to the broader economic landscape of post-Reconstruction America. The continued issuance of silver dollars under the Bland-Allison Act created a surplus of these coins, many of which were stored in vaults rather than released into circulation. As a result, numerous high-grade examples, including this MS64 coin, were preserved and later distributed through Treasury releases in the mid-20th century. These releases made it possible for collectors today to acquire superb examples of 19th-century U.S. coinage at reasonable prices relative to their rarity and beauty.
In conclusion, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1880 MS64 ANACS is a beautiful and historically significant coin that embodies the artistry, political context, and production excellence of its era. With its near-gem quality, sharp strike, and original mint luster, it serves as a compelling addition to any Morgan Dollar collection. Backed by the trusted certification of ANACS, this coin offers both peace of mind and enduring value to collectors seeking a distinguished representative of America’s most iconic silver dollar series.