What is the value of an 1879 US Silver Dollar?

Answer 1

This depends on if it is a Morgan or Trade dollar. The majority of such coins are Morgan dollars, recognizable by the portrait of Miss Liberty on the front and an eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse.

Look on the back of the coin to see if there's a small mint mark letter above the DO in DOLLAR. It may be blank or there may be a CC, O or S. (The M on the front of the coin is the designer's monogram and not a mint mark.)

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 09/2014:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

Very worn condition - $29

Moderately worn - $29

Slightly worn - $31

Almost no wear - $36

Uncirculated - $53 to $35,750 depending on quality

"CC" mint mark (Carson City):

Very worn - $127

Moderately worn - $192

Slightly worn - $336

Almost no wear - $2,238

Uncirculated - $4,260 to $103,130

"O" mint mark (New Orleans):

Very worn - $29

Moderately worn - $29

Slightly worn - $31

Almost no wear - $48

Uncirculated - $96 to $20,310

"S" mint mark (San Francisco):

Very worn - $29

Moderately worn - $29

Slightly worn - $31

Almost no wear - $36

Uncirculated - $50 to $4,220

In addition the CC and S mints struck more than one variety of this coin; the two varieties can differ by several dollars in price depending on the coin's condition. If you have a coin from either of these 2 mints it's best to have it inspected in person by an expert dealer or appraiser.

DISCLAIMER: The retail values quoted are the best available as of the date shown, but may vary significantly due to changes in the precious metals market. Also the wholesale (buying) price of a coin will be less than the selling (retail) price. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation based on inspection of the coin.

FAQ's about Morgan dollars

E Pluribus Unum

The motto E Pluribus Unum (Latin for "Out of Many, One") is on ALL $1 coins minted since 1878 so that's not specific enough to ID any one coin.

Silver Eagles

Silver eagles are bullion coins minted since 1986 for sale to collectors but not for spending. Morgan dollars were made for use in ordinary circulation just like dimes and quarters.