Description:
The 1878-S Trade Dollar is a historic U.S. silver dollar struck at the San Francisco Mint during the final years of the Trade Dollar series. Designed by William Barber, this coin was issued for use in international commerce, particularly trade with Asia. Graded as Fine, this example displays moderate wear with visible details on Liberty’s gown folds and the eagle’s wings. Despite its honest circulation, the coin retains strong appeal as a tangible link to America’s 19th-century trade expansion and silver coinage history.
Specifications:
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Denomination: Trade Dollar ($1)
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Year of Issue: 1878
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Mint: San Francisco (“S” mintmark)
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Designer: William Barber
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Series: Trade Dollar (1873–1885)
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Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
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Diameter: 38.1 mm
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Weight: 27.22 grams
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Grade: Fine (F)
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Certification: Raw (uncertified, sold as is)
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Holder: Archival flip
Highlights:
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1878-S Trade Dollar graded Fine (F)
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Struck at the San Francisco Mint in .900 fine silver
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Designed by William Barber, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint
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Obverse: Liberty seated on a bale, holding olive branch and ribbon inscribed “LIBERTY”
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Reverse: Eagle with arrows and olive branch, “TRADE DOLLAR” and weight inscriptions
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Honest circulated example with even wear and strong definition
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Popular among collectors of early U.S. silver and trade coinage
Historical Note:
Authorized by Congress in 1873, the Trade Dollar was struck to facilitate international commerce, primarily with China. The 1878-S issue represents one of the final years of regular business strike production, before domestic circulation was halted in 1878. Millions were exported overseas, with many later melted. Surviving circulated examples like this Fine coin remain treasured pieces of America’s silver trade history, connecting collectors to a fascinating era of U.S. coinage and commerce.
Searching for more Trade Dollars or early U.S. silver coins? Contact us — we carry a curated selection of certified and raw silver dollars from the 19th century.
