1879-O Morgan Silver Dollar - NGC MS61

This 1879-O Morgan Silver Dollar, graded MS61 by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), is an excellent example of early U.S. silver coinage and holds special importance due to its New Orleans Mint origin. The Morgan Silver Dollar series is one of the most iconic and widely collected in American numismatics, with the 1879-O being one of the earlier and more desirable issues.

Obverse:

The obverse features the classic profile of Lady Liberty, designed by George T. Morgan. Liberty is shown facing left, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with agricultural symbols like cotton and wheat, symbolizing American prosperity and freedom. The inscription "E PLURIBUS UNUM" curves along the top rim of the coin, with the date 1879 positioned below. The stars surrounding Liberty represent the original 13 colonies of the United States.

Reverse:

The reverse of the coin displays a majestic eagle with wings fully spread, clutching arrows in one talon and an olive branch in the other, signifying both military readiness and peace. Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR". The eagle is encircled by a laurel wreath, with the mint mark “O” for the New Orleans Mint located just beneath the wreath and above the denomination. The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” is prominently placed above the eagle's head.

Certification & Grade:

This coin has been certified MS61 (Mint State 61) by NGC, indicating that it is in uncirculated condition but does exhibit some marks or abrasions typically seen in coins of this grade. Despite these minor imperfections, the coin retains strong luster and shows most of the original detail, making it an attractive piece for collectors. The MS61 grade means the coin is free from wear and has never been in circulation, but it shows bag marks, especially in the fields and on the high points.

Historical Significance:

The 1879-O Morgan Silver Dollar is notable for being struck at the New Orleans Mint, a facility that faced closure shortly after producing Morgan dollars in the late 19th century, making New Orleans-struck coins particularly sought after. The Morgan Dollar series began in 1878, and the coins were minted in response to the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase and coin large quantities of silver. This dollar design replaced the earlier Trade Dollar and was minted in significant quantities during the Silver Rush period of U.S. history.

The 1879-O issue, in particular, represents a moment in time when the New Orleans Mint was ramping up its production of silver dollars, adding historical value to this coin beyond its silver content. Additionally, Morgan dollars struck at New Orleans have a certain mystique due to the lesser production quality compared to other mints, making higher-graded examples more desirable.

Key Features:

• Year: 1879
• Mint: New Orleans (O)
• Grade: NGC MS61
• Designer: George T. Morgan
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Diameter: 38.1 mm
• Weight: 26.73 grams
• Silver Content: 0.7734 troy ounces

This 1879-O Morgan Silver Dollar is a fine addition for collectors interested in both American history and classic U.S. coinage. Its connection to the New Orleans Mint, its place in the Morgan dollar series, and its uncirculated status make it a valuable piece in any serious collection. The coin’s silver content and the beauty of its design add to its appeal, making it a prized possession for numismatists.