1878-S VAM-11

Description

Classified under die pair II9-B2b with a reported doubled motto, the 1878-S Morgan Dollar VAM-11 carries a critical provenance note: this variety's existence is questionable, with attribution experts noting it is likely a misidentification of either VAM-22 or VAM-77. The obverse designation II9 indicates obverse die type II, number 9, while B2b identifies the reverse die variant. The reported doubling appears on IN GOD WE TRUST, the national motto positioned above Liberty's head on George T. Morgan's obverse design. For 1878 Morgan Dollars specifically, the date numerals were engraved directly into the master die rather than individually punched into working dies — an important distinction that eliminates repunched date possibilities for this year and narrows the range of die-specific characteristics. The 1878-S is a San Francisco Mint issue from the inaugural year of the Morgan Dollar series, authorized by the Bland-Allison Act. Despite the questionable attribution status, the listing is preserved for completeness within the VAM reference catalog, as it documents the historical classification even if the variety ultimately represents a duplicate designation. Struck in 90% silver at 26.73 grams and 38.1mm diameter. Collectors should cross-reference against VAM-22 and VAM-77 before attributing a coin to this number.

External References