1880 Morgan Silver Dollar

The 1880 Morgan silver dollar, designed by George T. Morgan, was minted during the height of silver coinage in the United States. This iconic coin features Liberty on the obverse and a bald eagle on the reverse.

The 1880 Morgan dollar is valued by collectors for its historic significance and overdate varieties, especially the "80 over 79" version.

Despite its wide availability, high-grade uncirculated examples and proofs attract significant interest.

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Historical Context

The 1880 Morgan silver dollar was minted at four U.S. Mint locations: Philadelphia, New Orleans, Carson City, and San Francisco. The coin was produced under the requirements of the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which mandated the purchase of large amounts of silver for coinage.

Despite millions being minted, many ended up in Treasury vaults, as silver dollars were not popular in circulation. The overdates using leftover 1879 dies make the 1880 Morgan silver dollar particularly interesting to numismatists.

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Specifications:

Size: 38.1 millimeters
Denomination: $1
Gross Weight: 26.73 grams
Actual Silver Weight: 0.77344 ounces
Fineness/Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 38.1 millimeters
Thickness: 2.4 millimeters
Specific Gravity: Not specified

Coin Description:

Obverse: The obverse features a portrait of Liberty facing left, adorned with a cap and small crown and surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies. The inscription "E Pluribus Unum" and the year "1880" are present.

Reverse: The reverse shows a bald eagle with spread wings clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and strength. A wreath surrounds the eagle, and the inscriptions "United States of America," "In God We Trust," and "One Dollar" are displayed.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

The 1880 Morgan silver dollar is highly regarded among coin collectors due to its historical background and the distinctive overdate varieties. The "80 over 79" versions are particularly prized for their rarity and die variations. In higher mint states, such as MS-65 and above, the coin commands a significant premium. The Morgan dollar series is one of the most popular in U.S. numismatics, and the 1880 issue is no exception, especially with its mintmarks from Philadelphia, New Orleans, Carson City, and San Francisco.

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Numismatic Value:

The value of an 1880 Morgan dollar varies based on condition:

Circulated Grades:

Very Fine: $35
Extremely Fine: $40
About Uncirculated: $50

Uncirculated (Mint State) Grades:

MS-61: $65
MS-63: $85
MS-65: $375
Auction Record (MS-67): $27,917

Proof versions and overdates are valued higher, and bag marks can affect prices. The value in circulated conditions is often tied to the silver content.

Free Appraisal With No Obligation To Sell

Take the first step toward selling your silver coins by getting a free appraisal today. Our process is designed to be transparent, convenient, and stress-free, giving you the confidence to sell when you’re ready.

At Coinfully, we’re committed to helping you get the most for your silver coins—all from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know I’m getting a fair price for my silver coins?

At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of silver, including the silver content of your coins, and the numismatic value of collectible coins. We provide a detailed explanation of how we arrive at your offer, ensuring that you’re fully informed and confident in the price you receive.

Is my shipment insured when I send my coins to Coinfully?

Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending silver bullion coins, junk silver coins, or American Silver Eagle coins, your coins are protected throughout the entire shipping process, giving you peace of mind that your valuable items are safe.

What types of silver coins does Coinfully buy?

We buy all types of U.S. silver coins, including American Silver Eagle coins, silver dollar coins, silver bullion coins, junk silver coins, and other collectible coins. No matter the type or condition, we’re interested in purchasing your coins, whether you’re looking to sell silver coins for melt value or as collectible items.

What if I’m not ready to sell after receiving an appraisal?

There’s no obligation to sell your coins after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We offer a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your collection. You can decide to sell when you’re ready, without any pressure from us.

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