Numismatic

1878 Morgan Dollar 8 Tailfeathers XF

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Introduced in 1878, the Morgan Dollar represents a classic era of American currency. This specific silver dollar, minted in Philadelphia, showcases the initial design of the year, recognized by the eight tailfeathers on the eagle. For nearly eighty years, these heavy silver coins circulated as a standard part of daily commerce in the United States, carrying a weight of 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver within their ninety percent silver alloy. The obverse side presents a profile of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap. A band in her hair is inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," surrounded by thirteen stars, the year 1878, and the Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM." Because this coin was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, it does not bear a mint mark. On the reverse, a bald eagle holds an olive branch and three arrows in its talons. The national motto "In God We Trust" is positioned above the eagle, encircled by the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the "ONE DOLLAR" denomination. This Extra Fine specimen offers a clear look at the artistry that defined late nineteenth-century American coinage.