1883-S VAM-5

Description

Discovered by Martin Field in February 1979, the 1883-S VAM-5 is designated "Doubled 18" and classified III2 4 with a C3a normal reverse and die pair 186. The doubling concentrates on the first two digits of the date, each showing distinct secondary impressions. The 1 is doubled on its surface at the bottom of the upper crossbar and on both the left and right sides of the vertical shaft. The first 8 displays doubling on the surface at the left inside of the upper loop, accompanied by die chips on both the left and right sides of the upper loop that add texture to the doubled area. The reverse carries a normal C3a die without significant anomalies. While the doubling on the 18 is described as surface-level rather than dramatically spread, the combination of the doubled 1 crossbar, the doubled shaft sides, and the die-chip-enhanced doubling on the 8 creates enough visual complexity to make this a rewarding variety for Morgan Dollar specialists. The die chips flanking the upper loop of the 8 are particularly useful as quick-identification markers.

External References