1881-O VAM-1A

Description

Discovered by Leonard Hinckley in February 1974, VAM-1A on the 1881-O Morgan Dollar is identified by a short die chip at the top left inside of the upper loop of the first 8 in the date, producing a raised spike that gives this variety its name: "Spike in 8." The plate designation III2 1 - C3a classifies this as Obverse Die Class III (modified die), subclass 2, die pair 1, paired with Reverse Die Class C3a (normal die). Plate photo 176 in the VAM reference illustrates the diagnostic. New Orleans Mint production. George T. Morgan's Silver Dollar design was produced from 1878 through 1921, and the VAM (Van Allen-Mallis) classification system has cataloged thousands of die varieties across the series. Die chips in date numerals are among the most visually accessible diagnostics for cherry-pickers because the geometric precision of engraved numbers makes even small raised intrusions readily apparent under modest magnification. The 1881-O is a common date, but identified VAM varieties can command prices well above generic examples. Attributed by VAMWorld.

External References