Your Cart is Empty
Don't Miss Out On Unique Items - Supplies are Limited
Sold Out
The 1880-S Morgan Silver Dollar is widely regarded as one of the most attractive issues of the early Morgan series. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this date benefits from the mint’s reputation for strong strikes and vibrant luster during the late 19th century.
Graded PCGS MS66, this example qualifies as a true Gem Mint State coin. At this level, the coin exhibits outstanding surface preservation, minimal contact marks, and exceptional eye appeal—traits that set it apart from the more common MS63 and MS64 examples frequently encountered in the marketplace.
The Morgan Dollar was introduced in 1878 following the passage of the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. government to purchase and coin large quantities of silver. By 1880, production was steady, and the San Francisco Mint was operating efficiently to convert Western silver into circulating coinage.
The proximity of the San Francisco Mint to major silver mining operations, including Nevada’s Comstock Lode, allowed for consistent silver supply. As a result, the 1880-S issue often exhibits:
Full strike definition
Strong radial cartwheel luster
Clean, well-prepared dies
These qualities make high-grade 1880-S coins especially desirable among collectors.
Obverse:
Liberty portrait facing left
Phrygian cap symbolizing freedom
Thirteen stars around the rim
Motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above
Date: 1880
The detailed hair curls and facial features of Liberty are sharply rendered in Gem examples like this one.
Reverse:
Heraldic eagle with wings fully extended
Olive branch and arrows in talons
“UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
“ONE DOLLAR” denomination
Motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”
Mintmark “S” beneath the wreath
The bold eagle design provides strong visual balance to the obverse portrait.
Denomination: One Dollar
Year: 1880
Mint: San Francisco (S)
Designer: George T. Morgan
Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Weight: 26.73 grams
Actual Silver Weight: 0.7734 troy oz
Diameter: 38.1 mm
Edge: Reeded
Grade: PCGS MS66
A PCGS MS66 Morgan Dollar typically exhibits:
Strong, uninterrupted mint luster
Sharp strike detail throughout
Only minor, well-hidden contact marks
Excellent overall eye appeal
At this level, the coin is significantly above average Mint State coins and approaches near-superb quality. MS66 examples are selectively chosen for their superior surfaces and brilliance.
Consistently strong strike quality
Attractive, frosty luster
High collector demand
Ideal as a high-grade type coin
Popular for PCGS registry sets
While the 1880-S is available in Mint State, truly attractive Gem MS66 examples with clean fields and strong luster are more selective and sought after.
This coin is especially suited for:
High-grade Morgan Dollar collectors
San Francisco Mint specialists
Registry set competitors
Collectors of 19th-century U.S. silver
Type set builders seeking a premium example
Because of its strong production quality, the 1880-S in MS66 is often chosen as a showcase coin within advanced collections.
Encapsulation by PCGS provides:
Authentication and grading assurance
Long-term surface protection
Market-recognized certification
Protection from environmental damage
To maintain optimal condition:
Store in a stable, dry environment
Avoid excessive humidity
Keep slab surfaces free of scratches
The 1880-S Morgan Silver Dollar PCGS MS66 combines the beauty of George T. Morgan’s iconic design with the superior production quality of the San Francisco Mint. With sharp details, strong cartwheel luster, and Gem Mint State preservation, it stands as an outstanding representative of early Morgan silver dollars.
For collectors seeking a high-grade 19th-century American silver coin with both visual impact and strong collector recognition, the 1880-S MS66 is an exceptional choice.
All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes only. For personalized financial guidance, consult a licensed professional adviser.
