The value of a 1878 dollar coin, specifically a Morgan Silver Dollar, depends heavily on its condition, mintmark, and any specific varieties.
Here’s a breakdown of 1878 Morgan Dollar values based on condition and mintmark:
- Extremely Fine: $80
- Uncirculated: $105
- Mint State (MS): Values range from $55.00 to $122,500.
- Extremely Fine: $55
- Uncirculated: $75
- Mint State (MS): Values range from $41.00 to $4,000.
- Extremely Fine: $40
- Uncirculated: $70
- Circulated: Values range from $140 to $435.
- Mint State (MS): Values range from $460 to $28,500.
- Proof Like (PL): Values range from $500 to $42,500.
- Deep Proof Like (DPL): Values range from $700 to $30,000.
- Extremely Fine: $47
- Uncirculated: $48
- Circulated: Values range from $44.50 to $80.
- Uncirculated: Sell for as much as $42,500 in pristine condition.
- Proof: Values range from $1,150 to $180,000.
- Proof (8 Tail Feathers): Values range from $3,050 to $47,500.
- Varieties: There are several recognized varieties of the 1878 Morgan Dollar, each with its own value range. Examples include the “8 Tail Feathers,” “7 Tail Feathers,” and various VAM varieties. VAM-14.17 (8 Tail Feathers, Chip in Ear) is noted for values between $1,500 and $48,000 in Mint State.
- Popularity and demand: These coins are part of the Morgan Dollar series which is very popular with collectors. This generally leads to higher demand and potentially higher prices compared to less popular series.
- Grade and condition: A coin’s condition is assessed on a scale from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated). Higher graded coins are almost always more valuable.
- Mintmark: Coins from the Carson City (CC) Mint generally command a premium due to lower mintage numbers. The San Francisco (S) mintmark is also particularly sought after for Morgan Dollars.
- Melt Value: All Morgan Dollars are 90% silver and their melt value is currently $29.72 (as of August 10, 2025). However, the numismatic (collectible) value is usually much higher than the melt value.
Note: It’s important to remember that these are approximate values. To get the most accurate valuation for your specific 1878 dollar coin, it is recommended to consult with a reputable coin dealer or have the coin professionally graded by a service like PCGS or NGC. Cleaning the coin yourself is generally not advised, as it can potentially damage the coin and reduce its collectible value.
How much is a 1878 Dollar coin worth today?
Thanks for asking. According to the NGC Price Guide, as of July 2025, a Morgan Dollar from 1878 in circulated condition is worth between $44 and $80. However, on the open market 1878 S Silver Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $42500.
What makes a 1878 silver dollar valuable?
Mint Mark. The mint mark with the highest 1878 Silver Dollar value is the CC mark. Distributed from the Carson City Mint, these coins were minted in extremely low numbers. Compared to the other mints in the U.S. system, CC was relatively small.
How much is a Dollar in 1878 worth today?
$1 in 1878 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $32.15 today, an increase of $31.15 over 147 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 2.39% per year between 1878 and today, producing a cumulative price increase of 3,114.65%.