Your Cart is Empty
Don't Miss Out On Unique Items - Supplies are Limited
Sold Out
The 1878-S Morgan Silver Dollar marks the inaugural year of one of America’s most iconic coin series. Authorized under the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, the Morgan Dollar was created to stabilize silver production and reintroduce the silver dollar into circulation.
Struck at the San Francisco Mint, the 1878-S issue reflects both historical necessity and artistic achievement. Graded NGC MS63, this coin offers strong eye appeal, original luster, and solid preservation—making it an excellent representative example of the series’ first year.
Following years of debate over silver policy, Congress passed the Bland-Allison Act in 1878, requiring the U.S. Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver and coin it into dollars. The result was the Morgan Dollar, named after its designer, George T. Morgan, an English engraver brought to the United States to modernize American coinage.
The San Francisco Mint, already experienced in striking large silver coins due to Western mining operations, quickly became one of the primary producers of Morgan Dollars.
The 1878-S issue represents one of the earliest outputs from this mint in the new design, linking it directly to the silver boom of the American West.
Obverse:
Left-facing portrait of Liberty
Modeled after Anna Willess Williams
Inscription: “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above
13 stars surrounding Liberty
Date: 1878
The Liberty portrait was revolutionary for its time, featuring a more lifelike and modern depiction compared to earlier Seated Liberty designs.
Reverse:
Heraldic eagle with wings extended
Olive branch and arrows in talons
Inscription: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
Motto: “IN GOD WE TRUST”
Denomination: “ONE DOLLAR”
Mintmark “S” below the wreath
The bold eagle design became one of the most recognized images in American numismatics.
Denomination: One Dollar
Year: 1878
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: NGC MS63
An NGC MS63 (Mint State 63) coin typically shows:
Strong remaining mint luster
Average to above-average strike
Moderate contact marks or bag marks
Attractive overall eye appeal
For Morgan Dollars, MS63 is often considered the entry point into premium Mint State examples, balancing collectibility and visual appeal.
First Year of Issue – 1878 marks the beginning of the Morgan series.
Western Silver Boom Connection – Struck during peak American silver production.
San Francisco Quality – “S” mint Morgans are often admired for sharp strikes.
Strong Collector Demand – Popular among both beginners and advanced collectors.
Type Coin Essential – Ideal example of the classic Morgan design.
This coin is ideal for:
Morgan Dollar type collectors
First-year issue enthusiasts
19th-century U.S. silver specialists
San Francisco Mint collectors
Investors who appreciate historic American silver (educational reference only)
The 1878-S issue is widely traded and recognized, making it one of the most liquid and established coins in U.S. numismatics.
Encapsulation by NGC ensures:
Guaranteed authenticity
Professional grading
Protection from environmental exposure
Enhanced resale liquidity
For optimal preservation:
Store in a temperature-controlled environment
Avoid excessive humidity
Keep slab surfaces free from scratches
The 1878-S Morgan Silver Dollar NGC MS63 is a cornerstone coin in American numismatics. As a first-year issue struck at the historic San Francisco Mint, it represents the beginning of the legendary Morgan Dollar era. With its classic Liberty portrait, bold eagle reverse, and strong Mint State preservation, this coin stands as both a historic artifact and a highly collectible silver dollar.
For collectors seeking a solid, high-quality example from the dawn of the Morgan series, this 1878-S MS63 delivers historical depth, beauty, and lasting appeal.
All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes only. For personalized financial advice, consult a licensed professional.
