Numismatic

1878 Morgan Dollar 7 Tailfeathers Rev of 79 AU

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The year 1878 marked the beginning of a legendary chapter in American coinage with the introduction of the Morgan Dollar. Minted in Philadelphia, this particular silver coin carries no mint mark, a traditional feature of the main United States mint facility during that era. Struck from 0.900 fine silver and containing 0.7734 troy ounces of precious metal, this specimen has survived in Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the crisp details of its original engraving. On the obverse, a profile of Liberty faces left, adorned with a Phrygian cap. Her hair band is inscribed with the word "Liberty," surrounded by the Latin motto "E Pluribus Unum," the 1878 date of issue, and thirteen stars representing the original colonies. The reverse presents a powerful bald eagle clutching both an olive branch and arrows in its talons. Above the eagle, the motto "In God We Trust" is inscribed, while the phrases "United States of America" and "One Dollar" frame the central design. This coin represents a design that circulated widely as everyday currency in the United States for roughly 80 years. Exploring this early first-year issue offers a direct look at the craftsmanship of late nineteenth-century American money, capturing a moment when silver dollars were a staple of daily commerce.