1878 Proof Morgan Dollar - Reverse of 1879

Coin Details

Auction Record

$11,500 PR61 03-02-2000 Superior Galleries

Description

The 1878 Proof Morgan Dollar - Reverse of 1879 is a proof dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Morgan Dollars 1878-1921 series. With a mintage of 250, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 13 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, encircled by stars and the reverse displays an eagle with outstretched wings clutching an olive branch and arrows, surrounded by a wreath. First year of the Morgan Dollar. Eight tail feather and seven tail feather varieties exist from early die adjustments. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $106K. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #7313.