Guidelines for Collecting:

The 1879-CC dollars were seldom seen in Mint State when collecting Morgan dollars became widely popular in the early 20th century. Today, the coin is the first key or rare variety in the Morgan dollar series and is the second rarest of all Carson City Morgan dollars after 1889-CC. All are of the Third Reverse—slanted top arrow feather, convex breast on eagle, type.
There are two major varieties. The first is the Large CC over Small CC, the oft-called “Capped Die” variety, on which there was an attempt at the Mint to tool away the small CC, so larger letters could be stamped in that area.

The second variety is the so-called Perfect, or “normal,” CC issue, which has a larger CC mintmark. The Large CC variety is the more available of the two and is also more popular than the Large CC over Small CC. Advanced specialists desire one of each.

Most 1879-CC dollars are well struck on obverse and reverse. Coins typically have attractive luster, with some examples frostier than others, while still others are dull and lifeless.

1879-CC Clear CC

1879-CC Capped CC

Availability in Circulated Grades:

Circulated coins exist from VG up to AU, though they are as scarce as Mint State pieces for the most part. A pleasing AU example of the date is something to brag about for this issue.

Availability in Mint State Grades:

Mint State coins are readily available although the quality tends to hover in the MS-61 to 62 range; above those grades the date becomes a challenge. Gems are available though they are the exception for this date. Most collectors settle for one or the other of the two major varieties of the year while others own both varieties. The MS-64 grade is optimal for this date—it represents high quality without the high cost associated with finer grades.

Availability in Proof:

None produced.

The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the Spring 2019 Baltimore Auction, where it realized $52,800.

1879-CC Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights

1879-CC Capped Die Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-65, CAC Sold for $39,950   View Lot 11511

1879-CC Capped Die Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-65, CAC Sold for $38,400   View Lot 6301

1879-CC Clear CC Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-65, CAC Sold for $30,550   View Lot 10184