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The Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1879-S MS63PL NGC is an exceptional piece of United States numismatic history. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this particular Morgan Dollar encapsulates the precision and excellence of late 19th-century American minting. Graded MS63PL by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), this coin exhibits both the mint state quality of a preserved silver dollar and the distinct mirror-like finish characteristic of proof-like coins. The "S" mint mark and its proof-like attributes make this Morgan Dollar highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Morgan Silver Dollar was designed by George T. Morgan, a British engraver who became the U.S. Mint’s Assistant Engraver. Morgan's design was first introduced in 1878, featuring a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse, inspired by teacher and philosophical writer Anna Willess Williams, whom Morgan considered epitomized the Greek Cypriot features. Surrounding Liberty are the inscriptions "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and the date of issue, along with thirteen stars representing the original American colonies. The reverse of the coin features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching both an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing America’s commitment to peace and its readiness for war. Above the eagle is the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," encircled by a wreath, and the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR."
The 1879-S Morgan Dollar comes from a period of significant production at the San Francisco Mint, one of the primary facilities producing silver dollars following the Coinage Act of 1873. This act ended the free coining of silver and led to the Bland-Allard Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large amounts of silver for the production of coins. The 1879-S variant was part of this silver procurement and minting effort, which aimed to bolster the silver industry and address the economic demands of the West. The substantial mintage of the 1879-S Morgan Dollar reflects its role in this broader economic context, making it not only a piece of monetary history but also a reflection of America’s industrial and economic expansion.
This specific coin’s MS63PL grade indicates that it is in mint condition, showing no evidence of wear, though it may have some minor contact marks and blemishes that are typical for coins that have not been circulated but have been handled. The proof-like designation refers to its exceptionally smooth and reflective surface, which resembles coins struck for presentation or special collectors’ sets. Such qualities enhance the visual appeal of the coin, highlighting the intricacy of Morgan's design and the fine details of both the obverse and reverse, from Liberty’s hair strands to the feathers on the eagle.
NGC's certification of this Morgan Dollar confirms its authenticity and grade, providing a trusted standard that assures collectors of the coin’s value and quality. NGC is known for its stringent grading processes, which emphasize not only the preservation and condition of the coin but also its aesthetic appeal, factors that are crucial for determining the coin’s market value and collectible status. The presence of a certification from a respected grading service like NGC helps preserve the integrity of the coin, ensuring that it remains a reliable and attractive investment for collectors.
In summary, the Certified Morgan Silver Dollar 1879-S MS63PL NGC represents a remarkable fusion of historical significance and numismatic beauty. Its excellent preservation, enhanced by the proof-like quality, offers collectors and historians alike a vivid glimpse into the legacy of American silver coinage. This Morgan Dollar not only embodies the artistry and craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint but also captures the economic narratives of its era, making it a valuable and cherished addition to any collection. This coin is more than just currency; it is a piece of American heritage, reflecting the nation’s rich history of minting and its broader socio-economic transformations.