The 1879-CC Morgan dollar is one of the most iconic and sought-after silver coins from the U.S. Mint, struck at the Carson City Mint. Known for its rarity and historical value, this silver dollar is a key piece in the Morgan dollar series and holds special appeal due to its low mintage and the significance of its mintmark, "CC."
Designed by George T. Morgan, the 1879-CC Morgan dollar was produced during a period of booming silver mining in Nevada. It was minted at the Carson City Mint, which had been established to process silver from the nearby Comstock Lode. This coin followed the Seated Liberty dollar and was issued as part of the Morgan dollar series under the Coinage Act of 1873 and the Bland-Allison Act, which mandated silver coinage to support the silver industry.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Size | 38.1 millimeters |
| Denomination | 1 USD |
| Gross Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Actual Silver Weight | 0.7734 troy ounces of silver |
| Fineness/Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Diameter | 38.1 millimeters |
| Thickness | 2.4 millimeters |
| Specific Gravity | ~10.34 |
| Numismatic Price Range | $3250 - $64625 |
The obverse of the 1879-CC Morgan dollar features a portrait of Liberty with a Phrygian cap adorned with flowers, surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies. The reverse shows a detailed eagle with spread wings holding arrows and an olive branch, signifying strength and peace, with the distinctive "CC" mintmark below. The "Capped CC" variety is notable for its unique mintmark appearance due to die rusting.
The 1879-CC Morgan dollar is one of the rarer coins in the Morgan dollar series, with only 756,000 minted. Many were melted down, notably under the 1918 Pittman Act, which increased its scarcity. It is especially prized for its connection to the Carson City Mint and its role in the vibrant history of silver mining in Nevada. The coin comes in two varieties, the Capped CC and the Perfect CC, with the latter being more desirable among collectors.
Circulated examples can sell for as much as $3,250 depending on condition, while uncirculated, Mint State (MS) coins range from $5,750 (MS-61) to $64,625 (MS-66). Proof-Like (PL) and Deep Mirror Proof-Like (DMPL) coins fetch even higher premiums. The Capped CC variety generally sells for slightly less than the Perfect CC version.
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