1884-S VAM-4.2

Description

The 1884-S VAM-4.2 Morgan Dollar is cataloged as 4.2 III2 2 - C3a, designated as a Far Date variety. The obverse (III2 2) shows the date set further right than the normal position — the "Far Date" classification indicating a measurable displacement of the date logotype from its standard location, resulting from the hand-punching process used to apply dates to working dies during this era. The VAM-4.2 sub-designation indicates this is the second sub-variety identified under the VAM-4 family, and the accompanying commentary notes an important cataloging challenge: at the time of documentation, several die pairs were being called VAM-4, making careful distinction between them essential for accurate attribution. This cataloging complexity reflects the nature of Far Date varieties, where subtle differences in date position, tilt, or spacing may be the only features distinguishing one die pair from another. George T. Morgan designed this silver dollar, struck at the San Francisco Mint in 90% silver and 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams at 38.1 mm diameter with a reeded edge. The 1884-S carries a relatively low mintage of approximately 3.2 million coins compared to Philadelphia production that year, making it a better-date issue within the Morgan series. The San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush, was one of three facilities producing Morgan Dollars during this period. The Far Date position should be measured against published VAM reference overlays or comparison images to confirm the rightward displacement meets the threshold for VAM-4.2 specifically, rather than the related VAM-4 or other 4-series sub-varieties. Precise date position measurement — ideally using overlay transparencies or digital comparison tools — is the most reliable method for distinguishing between the multiple die pairs associated with the VAM-4 family for this date-mint combination.

External References