1878-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001

Description

Submitted by Joe Groff and cataloged by the Wexler Team, this 1878-S Morgan Dollar represents a hub doubling variety from the inaugural year of George T. Morgan's iconic silver dollar design. Cross-referenced as VAM 30, placing it within the Van Allen-Mallis classification system used extensively by Morgan Dollar specialists. Obverse die markers include a broken point on the fourth star on the right and three short die gouges in a straight line below the center of the leaf below the right cotton ball. Reverse markers show an engraved feather between the eagle's right wing and leg and a die scratch running north from the upper left leaf on the olive branch. Struck at the San Francisco Mint in 90% silver and 10% copper at 26.73 grams and 38.1 mm, the 1878-S was produced during the first year mandated by the Bland-Allison Act requiring the Treasury to purchase and coin silver.

Die Markers

• Obverse: Fourth star on right shows broken point. Three short die gouges in straight line below center of leaf below right cotton ball. Reverse: An engraved feather shows between eagle's right wing and leg. Die scratch north from upper left leaf on olive branch.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Joe Groff Cross References: VAM 30
• VAM 30
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References