1878 7 Tail Feathers REV 1878 Morgan $1 NGC MS64

Introduction

The 1878 7 Tail Feathers Reverse of 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar graded NGC MS64 is a Choice Mint State example from the inaugural year of one of America's most recognizable coin series. Certified MS64 by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), this Philadelphia Mint issue features the distinctive 7 Tail Feathers Reverse of 1878, one of several varieties created as the Morgan Dollar design evolved during its first year of production. Combining Choice Mint State preservation, 90% silver content, and first-year numismatic significance, this coin offers collectors a tangible connection to the earliest development of the legendary Morgan Dollar series.

History

The Morgan Silver Dollar debuted in 1878 following passage of the Bland-Allison Act, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase substantial quantities of silver and coin it into silver dollars. Assistant Engraver George T. Morgan created an entirely new design for the denomination, beginning a series that would become one of the most widely collected in American numismatics.

The Morgan Dollar underwent several revisions during its inaugural year. The earliest 1878 coins depicted an eagle with eight tail feathers, but the design was soon changed to seven. Additional modifications to the reverse produced two distinct 7 Tail Feathers types now known as the Reverse of 1878 and Reverse of 1879. The Reverse of 1878 retains characteristics of Morgan's earlier eagle design, making it an important variety for collectors tracing the rapid evolution of the Morgan Dollar during its first year.

Design

The obverse features George T. Morgan's left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with wheat and cotton, reflecting the nation's agricultural heritage. A ribbon in Liberty's hair is inscribed with LIBERTY. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM appears above, while thirteen stars representing the original states flank the date 1878 below.

The reverse depicts a bald eagle with seven tail feathers and outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons. A wreath surrounds the eagle, while the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, IN GOD WE TRUST, and ONE DOLLAR complete the design. The Reverse of 1878 can be distinguished from the later Reverse of 1879 by details including the eagle's flatter breast and the parallel orientation of the top arrow feather.