The 1879 date is recognized as the third rarest one in the Carson City Morgan silver dollar series. Examples in lower Mint State grades (MS-60 to MS-62) are fairly easy to locate, albeit prices for them consistently continue to rise. In grades MS-64 and above, examples become more difficult to find, especially if attractive eye appeal is a major consideration. Prooflike and Deep Mirror Prooflike specimens in higher Mint State grades become even more difficult to locate.

The PCGS MS-64 Prooflike piece offered here displays exceptional eye appeal for its grade. The reflectivity in the fields practically qualifies for a DMPL designation. The contrast between the fields and the frosty-white raised devices captures a viewer’s attention immediately. The fields on both sides are noticeably free of contact marks.

The obverse easily qualifies for a solid MS-64 rating. Scattered light contact marks are visible across Lady Liberty’s face and to a slight degree down the front of her neck. These small abrasions would not be nearly as evident if not for the stunning whiteness draping Liberty’s portrait. The camera actually makes the light marks appear more prevalent than they are in a hands-on inspection. The camera’s image does a great job in capturing the boldness of strike on all the highpoints.

The reverse easily rates MS-65, if not MS-66. The fields on this side are immaculately clean. Two tiny abrasions on the central right field are the only ones worth mentioning. The depth of mirrored reflectivity in the reverse fields makes them appear as liquid pools of silver. The eagle stands boldly at the center with all its details defined with precision-like sharpness.

CAC had no problem approving this outstanding specimen’s grade. This piece will splendidly complement any high-grade set of “CC” Morgan silver dollars.