1884-O VAM-23

Description

Discovered by Oscar Simpson in April 1977 and classified as 23 III2 9 C3a, this 1884-O Morgan Dollar variety shows a far date with doubled 1 and 4. The date is set further right than normal, and the numerals 1 and 4 are doubled on their very tops, with an oval medium O mintmark. Collector Brent F. has noted finding examples with really flashy deep mirrors and a good clash but no letter transfer, suggesting some coins from this die pair achieved prooflike surfaces during their strike. Importantly, VAMs 23, 23A, and 23B are all the exact same pair of dies documented at different die states, meaning the three catalog numbers track progressive die deterioration rather than separate die pairs. This shared-die relationship is essential context for collectors pursuing a complete set, as all three numbers represent the same physical dies at different points in their working life. The far date positioning distinguishes this variety at a glance from the normal date placement on other 1884-O die pairs. Struck at the New Orleans Mint in 90% silver composition.

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