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Rare 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar 8 Tail Feathers Value

A specific variety of the Morgan Silver Dollar, minted in 1878, is distinguished by a design anomaly on the reverse side. This anomaly involves the depiction of the eagle’s tail feathers; instead of the more common seven feathers, some coins exhibit only eight. This characteristic is a notable feature for collectors and numismatists.

The presence of this design variation holds significant importance in the world of coin collecting. It can affect the value of the coin, with specimens exhibiting this characteristic sometimes commanding a premium over standard examples. Its historical context lies in the early production stages of the Morgan Dollar, during which the design was still being refined and adjusted by the engravers at the United States Mint.

7+ Rare 1878 Morgan Dollar Value (7 Tail Feathers!)

The “1878 Morgan silver dollar 7 tail feathers” designation refers to a specific variety of the initial year of Morgan dollar production. These coins are distinguished by the depiction of seven tail feathers on the eagle featured on the reverse (back) of the coin. This contrasts with later versions which display eight tail feathers. A detailed examination of the reverse is necessary to identify this variety.

The historical significance stems from its being one of the first coins minted under the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which mandated the purchase of large quantities of silver for coinage. The initial design was quickly modified, leading to the seven-feather variety being produced for a limited time and therefore sought after by collectors. Its importance lies in its role as an early example of the Morgan dollar and a tangible artifact from a period of significant monetary policy change. The relative scarcity compared to other Morgan dollars contributes to its collector interest.