1878 Morgan Silver Dollar 7 8 Tail Feathers
The 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most popular and sought-after coins for collectors and investors alike. Among the many varieties of this historic coin, the 7 8 Tail Feathers version stands out as particularly rare and valuable.
What Makes the 7 8 Tail Feathers Variety Unique?
The 7 8 Tail Feathers variety of the 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar is so named because of the number of tail feathers depicted on the eagle's tail feathers on the reverse side of the coin. Most Morgan Silver Dollars have eight tail feathers, but the 7 8 Tail Feathers version has only seven. This variety resulted from a mistake during the coin's production process, making it a rare and unique version of the coin.
The History of the 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar
The Morgan Silver Dollar was first minted in 1878 and was named after its designer, George T. Morgan. The coin was produced until 1904, when the mint stopped making it due to low demand. However, the production of the coin resumed for one year in 1921 due to the passage of the Pittman Act, which required the government to purchase large quantities of silver to support the price of the metal.
The Value of the 7 8 Tail Feathers Variety
The 7 8 Tail Feathers variety of the 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most valuable versions of the coin. Due to its rarity, collectors and investors are willing to pay top dollar to add it to their collections. The value of the coin depends on its condition, with mint condition coins being the most valuable. Some 7 8 Tail Feathers coins have sold for over $100,000, making it a valuable investment for those who are lucky enough to own one.
How to Identify the 7 8 Tail Feathers Variety
Identifying the 7 8 Tail Feathers variety of the 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar can be challenging, as it requires a close examination of the coin. The easiest way to identify the variety is to count the number of tail feathers on the eagle's tail feathers on the reverse side of the coin. If there are only seven tail feathers, then it is the 7 8 Tail Feathers variety. However, it is important to have the coin authenticated by a professional to ensure its authenticity and value.
Conclusion
The 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar 7 8 Tail Feathers variety is a rare and valuable coin that is highly sought after by collectors and investors. Its unique design and history make it a fascinating piece of American numismatic history, and its value has only increased over time. If you are lucky enough to have one of these coins in your collection, it is sure to be a prized possession for years to come.