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The Certified 1979-S Morgan Silver Dollar graded MS64DMPL by ICG represents a modern fantasy or commemorative issue, as no official Morgan silver dollars were produced in 1979 by the U.S. Mint. This coin is not part of the original Morgan dollar series (1878–1921) but rather a private or post-mint issue inspired by the classic Morgan design. The presence of a 1979 date and an “S” mintmark points toward a commemorative or novelty strike, often referred to as a fantasy issue. These pieces are produced for collectors and are typically not legal tender, despite their resemblance to historic coinage. The MS64DMPL grade and the ICG certification highlight the coin's superior strike and mirror-like surfaces, though its value is based on collectible interest rather than numismatic rarity.
The Morgan dollar, originally designed by George T. Morgan, is one of the most beloved and iconic coins in American numismatics. Issued between 1878 and 1904 and again in 1921, the original Morgan dollar features a profile of Liberty on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse. Any coin bearing the date 1979 and carrying the Morgan design is not an official U.S. Mint issue from that period but may be a privately minted reproduction or homage piece struck to collector-grade standards. These fantasy issues gained traction among collectors who appreciated the beauty of the Morgan design but wanted modern minting quality or unique date combinations.
The obverse of the coin mirrors the original Morgan dollar design: Liberty faces left, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, with the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above and the date “1979” at the bottom. In this MS64DMPL example, the design details are sharp, with Liberty’s hair strands, facial features, and cap texture all fully defined. “DMPL” stands for Deep Mirror Prooflike, meaning the coin has exceptionally reflective fields similar to a proof coin, with frosted devices that create a cameo contrast. This is a rare and desirable finish in Morgan-style coins, indicating exceptional die polish and planchet preparation.
The reverse features a powerful eagle with outstretched wings holding arrows and an olive branch, encircled by the motto “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR.” The “S” mintmark, located beneath the tail feathers above the “D” in “DOLLAR,” implies a nod to the San Francisco Mint. However, no actual 1979 Morgan dollars were struck at any U.S. Mint facility. Therefore, this mintmark is part of the fantasy design, likely referencing the classic Morgan production history. The reverse is well struck in this example, with full feather definition, clean lettering, and highly reflective fields.
ICG (Independent Coin Grading Company) assigned this piece a grade of MS64DMPL, indicating an uncirculated coin with a few light contact marks, excellent luster, and deep mirror surfaces. This is a very high grade for a DMPL coin, as such pieces are difficult to produce and preserve without surface flaws. The coin likely exhibits intense contrast between its mirrored fields and frosted devices, a quality often sought by collectors of both original Morgans and modern tribute issues. The DMPL designation, combined with MS64 status, suggests that the coin has superior eye appeal and near-Gem quality.
As a fantasy issue, the 1979-S Morgan dollar is not a legal-tender coin struck by the U.S. Mint, though it may be composed of silver, copper-nickel, or another metal depending on the minting source. Many of these pieces are produced by private mints using dies modeled after the original Morgan design, often to celebrate anniversaries, test die capabilities, or appeal to collectors seeking unique or non-traditional coinage. The value of such coins is driven by condition, rarity within their production run, composition (silver or base metal), and visual appeal, particularly for DMPL examples certified by recognized grading companies like ICG.
It is important for collectors to distinguish fantasy and commemorative issues from official U.S. Mint coinage, especially when such coins use classic designs and realistic mintmarks. While fantasy coins are not accepted as legal currency or part of traditional registry sets, they remain popular among collectors for their aesthetic qualities, affordability, and novelty. A certified MS64DMPL example is particularly attractive for those who enjoy the Morgan dollar design and want to own a dramatic, highly mirrored representation of it in modern form.
The DMPL surfaces on this coin indicate that it was struck with extra care using highly polished dies and planchets. The resulting contrast between the dark mirrored fields and the frosted relief elements creates a prooflike appearance not commonly found in circulation or business-strike coins. These deep mirror finishes are often appreciated for their beauty and showcaseability. An MS64DMPL grade reflects a nearly pristine surface, with few abrasions and strong strike characteristics throughout both sides of the coin.
Coins such as this 1979-S Morgan dollar are frequently collected in presentation cases or modern tribute sets. Depending on the producer, some may have been issued in limited quantities or struck in precious metals such as .999 fine silver. Buyers often enjoy the visual appeal, historical nostalgia, and affordable price point compared to original 19th-century Morgan dollars, especially those in DMPL condition, which are rare and expensive. Although not part of official U.S. Mint history, such coins are often displayed alongside authentic Morgans as a complementary collectible.
The Certified 1979-S Morgan Silver Dollar graded MS64DMPL by ICG is a beautifully struck fantasy piece that celebrates the enduring legacy of George T. Morgan’s famous silver dollar design. With mirror-like fields, frosted devices, and near-Gem quality, it stands as a tribute to a classic era of American coinage. Though not an official mint issue, its condition, craftsmanship, and certification make it a desirable item for collectors who appreciate artistry, tribute pieces, and standout visual presentation in silver dollar form.