The 1878 S Morgan Silver Dollar NGC MS-64 represents one of the most iconic and sought-after silver dollars in American numismatic history. Struck at the San Francisco Mint in the very first year of the Morgan Dollar series, this beautifully preserved specimen has been professionally graded by NGC as MS-64, indicating a near-gem quality with exceptional eye appeal and strong luster.

Designed by George T. Morgan, whose initial "M" can be found on the truncation of Lady Liberty's neck, this coin embodies the elegance and prestige of late 19th-century American coinage. The Morgan Silver Dollar was minted from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921, becoming a symbol of the American West and the nation's growing economic power during the Gilded Age.

Collectors and investors alike prize the 1878-S Morgan Dollar for its historical significance as the inaugural issue of the series. The San Francisco Mint produced these coins with superior striking quality compared to many Philadelphia and Carson City counterparts, often resulting in sharper details and more attractive surfaces that enthusiasts continue to seek today.

Coin Specifications

• Year: 1878
• Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
• Denomination: $1.00 (One Dollar)
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Actual Silver Weight: 0.77344 Troy Ounces
• Diameter: 38.1 mm
• Weight: 26.73 grams
• Edge: Reeded
• Grade: MS-64 (Mint State 64)
• Grading Service: NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
• Designer: George T. Morgan

Historical Significance

The Morgan Silver Dollar was born from the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which required the U.S. government to purchase large quantities of domestic silver and convert it into coinage. This legislation was a direct response to the economic pressures faced by silver miners and farmers following the Coinage Act of 1873, which had effectively demonetized silver.

The 1878-S issue holds particular importance as it was among the very first Morgan Dollars struck. The San Francisco Mint would go on to produce Morgan Dollars for decades, with many collectors considering early S-mint examples to be among the most attractive due to their typically superior strikes and vibrant cartwheel luster.

Each 1878 S Morgan Silver Dollar contains nearly a full ounce of pure silver, making these coins not only historically significant but also a tangible store of value that has been treasured by generations of Americans. The design features a majestic profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse, surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies, while the reverse displays a proud American bald eagle with wings outstretched, holding arrows and an olive branch.

Why MS-64 Condition Matters

An NGC MS-64 grade indicates that this coin is in near-gem condition. It exhibits only minor marks or imperfections that are consistent with its age and the minting process of the era. Coins in this grade often display attractive original toning, brilliant cartwheel luster, and sharp strike characteristics that make them highly desirable for both type collectors and date-and-mintmark specialists.

The combination of the first-year issue, the popular San Francisco mintmark, and a solid MS-64 grade makes this 1878-S Morgan Silver Dollar an exceptional addition to any collection. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist building a comprehensive Morgan Dollar set or an investor seeking beautiful, historically significant silver bullion with numismatic premium, this coin offers the perfect balance of rarity, beauty, and value.

Owning an authentic 1878 S Morgan Silver Dollar NGC MS-64 connects you directly to America's fascinating monetary history while providing a stunning example of one of the most beloved coin designs ever produced by the United States Mint.