1881-S VAM-13
Error
Description
Discovered by Guy Messing in January 1975, this San Francisco Morgan Dollar carries an important cataloging caveat: the same die pair is designated VAM-13, VAM-15, and VAM-34 depending on the attribution label — a recognized duplication awaiting revision. Designated 13 III2 1 C3f (S/S Left) with rarity 180, the obverse (III3 1) shows a spike die chip in the upper loop of the second 8 that barely shows. The reverse (C3f) features a repunched mintmark with the original S showing as a spike at the left of the upper loop opening and an arc in the middle of the lower loop opening, with partially filled loops. Collectors should be aware that coins labeled VAM-15 or VAM-34 in holders are the same die pair — a revision or kill order is pending. The 1881-S is one of the most common Morgan dates in high grade, but VAM collecting adds granularity to even common issues. This triple-listing status makes the variety a conversation piece among Morgan specialists.
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