Guidelines for Collecting:

The 1880-CC with the Reverse of 1879 (SAF) was minted in larger quantities, and thus is more plentiful, than Morgan dollars with the Reverse of 1878 (PAF). The Carson City mintmark makes this variety quite popular. However, many examples are extensively bagmarked and collectors need to search to find a dollar with good eye appeal. Strike varies from sharp in all areas to weak at the centers with the lack of definition in the hair strands near Miss Liberty’s ear and on the breast feathers of the eagle. The luster of this coin is typically good. Planchet striations appear on some pieces from the strip preparation process and appear as tiny parallel lines on the highest central points of the coins.

1880-CC, Reverse of 1878

1880-CC, Reverse of 1879

Availability in Circulated Grades:

Like its PAF counterpart, this variety is available in a wide range of circulated pieces, a “something for everyone” issue.

Availability in Mint State Grades:

There is no shortage of Mint State specimens available no matter how far up the grading scale your inclination and budget take you (ultra-high grade and price do not always equate to great value for the price paid). MS-64 is an ideal grade as it suggests great quality and an affordable price tag.

Availability in Proof:

None produced.

1880-CC Reverse of 1879 with 8/7:

These, made in several die combinations for circulation, represent the use in 1880 of 187 partially-dated dies that were on hand in the die department of the Philadelphia Mint. A Guide Book of United States Coins lists these.

1880-CC, Reverse of 1879 8 Over 7, Low 7	1880-CC, Reverse of 1879 8 Over 7, Low 7
1880-CC, Reverse of 1879 8 Over 7, High 7	1880-CC, Reverse of 1879 8 Over 7, High 7

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

1880-CC, Reverse of 1879 Morgan Dollar Auction Highlights

1880-CC Reverse of 1879 Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-67+, CAC Sold for $52,800   View Lot 1099

1880-CC Reverse of 1879 Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-67 PL Sold for $47,000   View Lot 3182

1880-CC Reverse of 1879 Morgan Dollar PCGS MS-67+, CAC Sold for $47,000   View Lot 11060