1880/79-CC United States $1 Morgan Dollar VAM-4 Reverse 1878 GSA NGC MS63

1880/79-CC United States $1 Morgan Dollar VAM-4 Reverse 1878 GSA NGC MS63

The 1880/79-CC Morgan Dollar is among the most fascinating and technically intriguing issues of the entire Morgan dollar series. Struck at the legendary Carson City Mint, this dramatic overdate showcases a bold “80” punched directly over a previously impressed “79,” creating one of the most visually striking minting anomalies in U.S. silver coinage.

This example is attributed as VAM-4, a well-known and widely collected variety, and features the Reverse of 1878, distinguished by parallel arrow feather tips rather than the later slanted style. Certified MS63 by NGC, the coin exhibits strong mint luster and well-defined devices consistent with a Choice Mint State Carson City silver dollar.

Historical Significance

The Carson City Mint played a pivotal role in transforming Comstock Lode silver into circulating coinage. The 1880/79-CC overdate was the result of reusing a previously dated die—an economical and practical solution that inadvertently produced one of the most iconic error varieties in American numismatics. Today, the issue stands as a tangible link to the hurried and resource-conscious operations of the frontier-era mint.

Design & Features

• Obverse: Liberty’s portrait reveals the clear overdate beneath the final “80,” most visible within the date numerals.

• Reverse (of 1878): Parallel arrow feather tips and early hub characteristics define this scarce reverse style.

• Mintmark: The bold “CC” mintmark proudly identifies the Carson City Mint, one of the most collected U.S. mint facilities.

GSA Hoard Provenance

This coin originates from the famous General Services Administration (GSA) Hoard, a release of long-stored Carson City Morgan dollars dispersed to the public in the 1970s. The inclusion of the original GSA box and Certificate of Authenticity adds an important layer of historical provenance and collector appeal, confirming its government-held origin.

Catalog Reference

• Denomination: $1

• Year: 1880/79

• Mint: Carson City

• Variety: VAM-4

• Reverse: Reverse of 1878

• Type: Morgan Dollar

• Certification: NGC MS63

• Packaging: GSA Box & COA

Collector’s Value

The combination of a dramatic overdate, sought-after VAM attribution, Reverse of 1878, and confirmed GSA provenance places this 1880/79-CC Morgan Dollar in a highly desirable category. For collectors of Carson City coinage, VAM varieties, or historically significant U.S. silver dollars, this example represents an exceptional opportunity to secure a cornerstone piece with enduring numismatic appeal.