1879-P VAM-9
ErrorDescription
Discovered by the legendary Bill Fivaz in February 1974, the 1879-P VAM-9 is classified as a Doubled 8-9 variety on the Morgan dollar. Fivaz, co-author of the Cherrypickers' Guide to Rare Die Varieties, is one of the most influential figures in American variety coin attribution. The VAM classification is 9 III2 9 · C3a with a rarity rating of I-2 R-3 and is unlisted by the SSDC. On the obverse, the 8 in the date shows slight doubling on the lower left outside of the upper loop and bottom right outside of the lower loop, while the 9 is doubled strongly on the left side of the upper loop with a closed 9 formation. The reverse is designated C3a, indicating a normal die without notable characteristics. This variety is possibly the same as VAM-75. Morgan dollar VAM collecting remains one of numismatics' most active specialties, and varieties discovered by Fivaz carry additional provenance appeal given his foundational role in establishing modern die variety attribution standards.
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.