1879-S Morgan Dollar MS-63 NGC

Imagine America in 1879 – still reeling from the Civil War, and the nation's monetary system was a hot topic. This very 1879-S Morgan Dollar was born out of that fiery debate, specifically the Bland-Allison Act of 1878. This law mandated the U.S. government to buy silver and coin it into dollars, a move driven by the "Free Silver Movement" looking to stabilize silver prices and expand the money supply. So, when you hold this coin, you're holding a direct consequence of a fascinating legislative battle!

Designed by the talented George T. Morgan, this dollar showcases his iconic vision of Lady Liberty on the obverse, modeled by Anna Willess Williams, a Philadelphia school teacher. It’s a truly American interpretation of freedom. On the reverse, you’ll find a majestic bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing both readiness for defense and a desire for peace. This particular coin, with its "S" mint mark, hails from the legendary San Francisco Mint, which was celebrated for its high-quality strikes during this era. In 1879 alone, the San Francisco Mint produced a substantial 9,110,000 of these dollars, many of which were held in Treasury vaults for decades, leading to a good number of well-preserved examples available today.

Certified MS-63 by NGC, this coin is in excellent Mint State condition, showing its luster and design details beautifully. It's composed of .900 pure silver, containing a respectable 0.7734 troy ounces of precious metal, and has a face value of One Dollar. Measuring 38.1 mm in diameter and 3.1 mm in thickness, with a total weight of 26.73 grams, it's a substantial piece. This 1879-S Morgan Dollar is perfect for the collector who appreciates not just the beauty of classic American coinage, but also the rich historical narrative woven into every milligram of its silver. It's a chance to own a piece of the post-Civil War American economic story, brought to life through a stunningly preserved coin.