1878 (S) Morgan Dollar - VAM-45
Error
Description
Discovered by Leroy Van Allen, October 1980. Revised April 2024 This coin is a Top 30 1878-S Variety. 45 II 59 • B2ad (Engraved Wing Feather, 9 Upper TFs, Reverse Die used in 1879) (184) Obverse II 59 - Small die chips below eyelid, on nose, behind eye and on cheek with vertical die gouge at rear of eye. Reverse B2ad - Feather engraved between eagle’s right wing and leg. R in Trust slightly broken. Slightly doubled UNITED STATES towards rim. Two small vertical tail feathers engraved at very left side of upper tail feathers that engraver mistakenly added to normally blank area to create 9 upper tail feathers. Normal upper tail feathers next to two added ones slightly strengthened on right side as added ridge. Middle over polished outer feathers of eagle's left wing have been strengthened by engraving. Die marker - Short horizontal polishing line at top left of engraved feather area of eagle’s right wing. Same die as for 1879-S VAMs 9 and 77. Notes: Exact same obverse die as 1878-S VAM-40, 1878-S VAM-45 & 1878-S VAM-64.
External References
Community & Reference
Related Errors
More VAM Variety Errors
Collector Essentials
Tools for examining and preserving error coins and die varieties.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
Essential for examining die varieties, doubled dies, and RPMs
Cherry Picker's Guide
The definitive reference for U.S. error coins and die varieties
2x2 Coin Flips & Holders
Protect and organize your finds with archival-quality holders
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.