Check 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar value by mint mark, tail-feather variety, grade, and market range.
The 1878 Morgan silver dollar was the first year of a classic U.S. coin series, and its reverse changed soon after production began. That makes some 1878 dollars more collectible than others, even with the same date. Learn to identify the Philadelphia, Carson City, and San Francisco issues, recognize the tail-feather varieties, estimate condition, and understand what buyers may pay.
A quick overview of the 1878 Morgan silver dollar
George T. Morgan designed this dollar, showing Liberty on the front and an eagle on the back. It is 90% silver, weighs 26.73 grams, measures 38.1 millimeters, and contains about 0.7734 troy ounce of pure silver. Philadelphia struck 10,508,800, including about 749,500 with the original eight-tail-feather reverse; Carson City made 2,212,000 and San Francisco 9,774,000.
Philadelphia coins have no mint mark; CC and S appear below the wreath, above DOLLAR. No regular 1878-O or 1878-D Morgan dollar was made, so question an unexpected mark. Philadelphia also produced several reverse varieties.
How much is an 1878 Morgan silver dollar worth?
Value depends on mint, reverse, grade, and the silver market. These ranges are estimates for problem-free coins.
| 1878 issue | Circulated VF–AU | Mint State MS63–MS65 |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia 7TF, Reverse of 1878 | $45–$110 | $225–$2,000 |
| Philadelphia 7TF, Reverse of 1879 | $45–$160 | $450–$2,750 |
| Philadelphia 8TF | $100–$250 | $525–$2,300 |
| Carson City CC | $250–$480 | $650–$3,000 |
| San Francisco S | $45–$100 | $165–$575 |
“7TF” and “8TF” mean seven or eight tail feathers. Prooflike coins can bring more than ordinary Mint State pieces. Treat the table as a guide, not a guaranteed offer.
How to check your 1878 Morgan silver dollar value at home
On the reverse, blank means Philadelphia, CC means Carson City, and S means San Francisco. Original specifications are 26.73 grams and 38.1 millimeters, though wear can reduce weight slightly.
Count the eagle’s tail feathers and inspect its breast and upper arrow feather to distinguish reverse styles. For condition, check Liberty’s cheek and hair, the eagle’s feathers, luster, and contact marks. A quick glance isn’t enough for a precise grade.
Which 1878 Morgan silver dollars are worth the most?
The original Philadelphia 8 Tail Feathers issue is popular because the Mint replaced its reverse early in 1878. The 7/8 Tail Feathers variety shows remnants of the earlier design. The 7TF Reverse of 1879 has a rounded eagle breast and slanted upper arrow feather; the Reverse of 1878 has a flatter breast and parallel arrow feather.
The 1878-CC is the first-year Carson City Morgan dollar. High-grade coins with strong luster, few marks, or prooflike surfaces can bring premiums. Have a suspected VAM or doubled-die feature attributed before counting on extra value.
How much an 1878 Morgan silver dollar has sold for
Certified Philadelphia 7TF Reverse of 1878 dollars in VF–XF grades often sell for about $40–$105; AU examples may bring $55–$230. Typical sales are around $145–$250 in MS63, $245–$425 in MS64, and $550–$1,400 in MS65.
8TF and 1878-CC coins can sell for more at similar grades, and exceptional examples may reach thousands. Past sales aren’t guaranteed current prices; compare the same mint, variety, and grade.
Things to know before you sell an 1878 Morgan silver dollar
Don’t clean, polish, or dip the coin; hairlines and altered surfaces can lower its appeal. Hold it by the edge in a coin-safe holder, not a soft PVC flip. Grading may pay off for an uncirculated 8TF, a 1878-CC, or a possible rare variety, but compare fees with likely value.
Watch for altered dates, added mint marks, unusual weight, or incorrect details; a magnet test alone proves nothing. Compare dealer quotes with completed sales and account for fees.
Where and how to sell an 1878 Morgan silver dollar
A reputable coin shop can inspect the dollar and make an offer. Auctions may suit certified high-grade, 8TF, CC, or verified variety coins, though commissions apply. For online sales, use clear photos, describe condition honestly, and ship with tracking and insurance.
Read this guide to how to sell your coins before choosing a buyer. Record offers and fees, and confirm payment and return terms before mailing the coin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is an 1878 Morgan silver dollar worth?
Many circulated examples bring $45–$250, while scarce varieties and CC coins can sell for more. Grade affects value.
How can I tell if my 1878 Morgan dollar is an 8 Tail Feathers coin?
Count the feathers in the eagle’s tail. The original 1878 design has eight; later versions have seven.
Where is the mint mark on an 1878 Morgan dollar?
It is on the reverse below the wreath and above DOLLAR. CC means Carson City, S means San Francisco, and no mark means Philadelphia.
Is an 1878-CC Morgan dollar rare?
It is more collectible than common P or S issues, but isn’t among the rarest CC Morgans. Condition matters.
What is the silver content of an 1878 Morgan dollar?
It is 90% silver and 10% copper, with about 0.7734 troy ounce of pure silver.
Should I get an 1878 Morgan silver dollar professionally graded?
Consider grading an uncirculated coin, an 8TF or CC issue, or a possible rare variety. For a worn, common example, the fee may exceed the added value.