Discover the timeless allure of American numismatic history with this stunning 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar certified by ANACS in MS-61 condition. This beautiful coin represents one of the most beloved silver dollar designs ever produced by the United States Mint and remains a favorite among both seasoned collectors and silver bullion enthusiasts alike.

The Morgan Silver Dollar series, minted from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921, stands as an iconic symbol of the American West and the nation’s growing industrial power during the late 19th century. Designed by George T. Morgan, this coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a majestic eagle on the reverse. The 1879-S issue, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is particularly prized for its sharp strikes and often exceptional luster, making it a standout choice for collectors seeking quality and historical significance.

Encapsulated and graded by the respected ANACS grading service, this specific example has been professionally evaluated and awarded a Mint State 61 grade. MS-61 represents an uncirculated coin that shows some minor marks or bag abrasions typical of the era’s minting and storage practices, yet still retains its original mint luster and overall appeal. For collectors looking to add an authentic piece of American silver history to their collection without the premium associated with ultra-high grades, this 1879-S Morgan offers exceptional value.

Each Morgan Silver Dollar contains .77344 ounces of pure silver, making this coin both a numismatic treasure and a tangible silver asset. Whether you are building a comprehensive type set, expanding your Morgan Dollar collection by date and mintmark, or simply seeking a beautiful silver coin with rich historical context, this ANACS-certified 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar deserves serious consideration.

Coin Specifications

• Date: 1879
• Mint: San Francisco (S)
• Denomination: One Dollar ($1.00)
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Actual Silver Weight: 0.77344 Troy Ounces
• Diameter: 38.1 mm
• Weight: 26.73 grams
• Edge: Reeded
• Designer: George T. Morgan
• Grading Service: ANACS
• Grade: MS-61 (Mint State 61)
• Country: United States of America

Historical Background

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 came after years of political debate surrounding the nation’s monetary policy following the Civil War. The Morgan Dollar quickly became a symbol of the Silver Movement and played a significant role in the economic landscape of the American frontier.

Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, the coin replaced the Seated Liberty Dollar and featured a new portrait of Liberty modeled after Anna Willess Williams, a Philadelphia schoolteacher. The reverse displays a powerful eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, surrounded by a laurel wreath. The “S” mintmark located below the wreath on the reverse identifies this coin as having been struck at the famous San Francisco Mint, which produced some of the most visually appealing Morgan Dollars of the entire series.

The 1879-S issue was produced in substantial quantities, with over 9 million coins struck. However, many were later melted under the Pittman Act of 1918, making high-quality survivors increasingly desirable to today’s collectors. The San Francisco Mint was known for producing coins with superior strikes and brilliant cartwheel luster, characteristics that are often still visible even on coins graded in the lower Mint State categories.

Owning an 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar connects you directly to a fascinating period in American history — a time of westward expansion, industrial growth, and monetary reform. These coins circulated throughout the American West and were instrumental in the development of commerce during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many Morgan Dollars were also used in international trade, particularly in Asia where they were highly valued for their silver content.

Today, Morgan Silver Dollars rank among the most actively traded and collected U.S. coins. Their large size, beautiful design, and substantial silver content combine to create tremendous appeal. Whether displayed as part of a complete set, featured in a type collection, or simply admired as a single historical artifact, this ANACS MS-61 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar represents an outstanding opportunity to own a genuine piece of American numismatic heritage.

With its certified authenticity, historical importance, and intrinsic silver value, this coin makes an excellent addition to any collection. Its MS-61 grade offers an accessible entry point into high-quality Morgan Dollar collecting while maintaining the visual appeal and collectible nature that makes these coins so desirable to enthusiasts worldwide.