Guidelines for Collecting:

It was decided to change the standard tail feather count on the eagle image on the reverse from 8 to 7, as in nature eagles have a count in an odd number. A number of new working dies, ones that were possibly not finally hardened, were over-punched with the 7 tail feather hub. The impression did not completely obliterate tips of the first eight tail feathers, and as a result some of the dies used show visible signs of the earlier tail feathers. A rule of thumb for collectors is that at least four vestigial tips should be visible under the seven tail feathers—the more tips visible, the better. Circulation strikes usually have a sharp strike on both sides; the eagle’s breast feathers should be well-defined.

Availability in Circulated Grades:

This popular variety was released into circulation around the time of striking and many are the circulated specimens available today; grades run from well-worn VG up to attractive AU.

Availability in Mint State Grades:

Name your grade, MS-60 to MS-65, and it’s yours. Above the MS-65 level the date can prove elusive but enough exist to satisfy the demand for ultra-grade collectors. Many Mint State survivors are from the Treasury hoards dispersed early in the 1960s.

Availability in Proof:

None produced.

1878 8 Tail Feathers Morgan Dollar

1878 7/8 Tail Feathers Morgan Dollar

1878 7 Tail Feathers Morgan Dollar

The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the January 2011 Tampa Bay Rarities Night Auction, where it realized $15,009.80.

1878 7-TF Over 8-TF Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights

1878 7 Over 8 Tail Feathers Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-66 Sold for $15,009.80   View Lot 871

1878 7 Over 8 Tail Feathers Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-65 DMPL Sold for $9,400   View Lot 9384

1878 7 Over 8 Tail Feathers Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-64 DMPL Sold for $4,800   View Lot 3215