1878-CC $1 Morgan Dollar PCGS AU Detail- Genuine Cleaned

Key Features:

• Obverse: Depicts Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap with the word “LIBERTY” on a headband. The inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” surrounds the top of the coin, with the date “1878” at the bottom.
• Reverse: Features a bald eagle with outstretched wings, holding arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing both military preparedness and peace. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “ONE DOLLAR” appear around the eagle. The CC mintmark is prominently placed beneath the wreath, just above the “D” in “DOLLAR.”
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
• Silver Content: Approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of silver.
• Diameter: 38.1 mm.
• Weight: 26.73 grams.

Grade:

• PCGS AU Detail – Genuine Cleaned:
  • This designation indicates that the coin is genuine but has been cleaned, which disqualifies it from receiving a numerical grade. Cleaning is a process that can remove dirt, toning, or other blemishes, but it often leaves noticeable surface marks or affects the coin’s natural luster. This practice is frowned upon in numismatics because it can reduce a coin’s originality and overall value.
  • AU Detail (Almost Uncirculated Detail) suggests the coin still retains much of its original detail and luster, though some wear is visible on high points like Liberty’s cheek and the eagle’s breast feathers. However, the cleaning prevents it from being given a straight grade like AU50 or AU55.
  • Despite the cleaning, the coin should still exhibit sharp design details typical of lightly circulated or uncirculated coins.

Historical Context:

• The Carson City Mint (mintmark “CC”) was known for producing fewer coins than other U.S. mints, and its association with the Old West adds to its mystique and collectibility. Carson City was a smaller mint primarily serving the mining-rich region of Nevada, and coins from this mint tend to be rarer, especially in higher grades.
• The 1878-CC Morgan Dollar was minted in the first year of Morgan Dollar production, making it highly desirable as both a first-year issue and a Carson City coin.

Mintage & Scarcity:

• Mintage: The 1878-CC Morgan Dollar had a mintage of 2,212,000, making it one of the more available Carson City Morgan Dollars. However, the Carson City mintmark always adds a premium due to lower production numbers and its appeal to collectors of Western history and Carson City coinage.
• Although more common than some other CC Morgan Dollars, finding one in higher grades or without issues like cleaning or other damage can still be a challenge.

Market Appeal:

• Cleaned Condition: The fact that this coin has been cleaned reduces its overall value and collectibility compared to uncleaned examples. Collectors generally prefer coins that have retained their original surfaces, even if toned or showing signs of age. However, since the coin is still genuine and carries the desirable Carson City mintmark, it can still be appealing to collectors looking for a more affordable entry into Carson City Morgan Dollars.
• Carson City Popularity: The CC mintmark adds substantial value to any Morgan Dollar, particularly one from the first year of issue. Even with the cleaned condition, this coin will attract interest due to its rarity and historical connection to the Carson City Mint.