Key Features:
- Obverse: Features a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap with the word “LIBERTY” on a ribbon. The inscriptions “E PLURIBUS UNUM” encircle the coin, along with the date “1878” below.
- Reverse: Displays a bald eagle with wings outstretched, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing military readiness and peace. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “ONE DOLLAR” surround the design. The “CC” mintmark is located beneath the wreath.
- Composition: 90% silver and 10% copper.
- Silver Content: Approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver.
- Diameter: 38.1 mm.
- Weight: 26.73 grams.
Grade:
- PCGS Genuine UNC Detail:
- This designation indicates that the coin is genuine but has a notable flaw or issue that prevented it from receiving a numerical grade.
- UNC Detail (Uncirculated Detail) suggests that while the coin retains much of its original mint luster and detail, it has not been circulated. However, the issue (in this case, a wheel mark) detracts from its overall grade and value.
- Genuine Wheel Mark:
- A wheel mark typically results from a coin being damaged by the counting or rolling machines used by banks. These machines sometimes left noticeable marks or lines on the coin’s surface, often in the form of parallel scratches or a single deep mark across the coin. Wheel marks can diminish a coin’s eye appeal, especially when they are prominent, but they do not affect the authenticity of the coin itself.
Historical Context:
The 1878-CC Morgan Dollar is highly desirable because it was struck at the Carson City Mint, which had a relatively small production compared to other U.S. mints. Carson City coins are often prized for their association with the Wild West and the Nevada silver mining boom, especially those from the first year of Morgan Dollar production in 1878.
Market Appeal:
The 1878-CC Morgan Dollar is a key date for collectors due to the scarcity of Carson City Mint coins, and even a coin with issues like a wheel mark can hold significant value. Coins with the UNC Detail designation generally retain sharp details and luster, despite the specific damage. However, the wheel mark will affect the coin’s market value, typically making it more affordable than a problem-free uncirculated coin but still valuable due to its rarity and historical significance.
Collectors of Carson City coins, or those looking for a more budget-friendly example of a highly desirable piece, may find this coin appealing, despite the wheel mark.
The 1878-CC issue is one of the more popular coins from the Morgan Dollar series, and its provenance from the Carson City Mint ensures ongoing interest and demand.
VF-20 Very Fine- Two thirds of hair lines from top of forehead to ear visible. Ear well defined. Feathers on eagle’s breast worn.
EF-40 Extremely Fine- All hair lines strong and ear bold. Eagle’s feathers all plain but with slight wear on breast and wing tips.
AU-50- About Uncirculated- Slight trace of wear on the bust shoulder and hair left of forehead, and on eagle’s breast and top edges of wings.
MS-60 Uncirculated-Â No trace of wear; full mint luster present, but may noticeably marred by scuff marks or bag abrasions.
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated-Â No trace of wear; full mint luster; few noticeable surface marks.
MS-64 Uncirculated-Â A few scattered contact marks/ Good eye appeal and attractive luster.
MS-65 Gem Uncirculated-Â Only light, scattered contact marks that are not distracting. Strong luster, good eye appeal.
PF-63 Choice Proof-Â Reflective surfaces with few blemishes in secondary focal places. No major flaws.
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