1885-O VAM-10

Description

Discovered by Bill Fivaz in March 1977, the 1885-O VAM-10 Morgan Dollar is classified as III2 9 · C3a (Dash Under 8, Bar Ear) with die pairing number 181. The obverse (III2 9) presents two distinctive diagnostic features: a small short dash under the second 8 in 1885, and a vertical die gouge in front of Liberty's ear — the "Bar Ear" designation describing the gouge's linear appearance in that location. Community commentary provides additional context, noting that the date should more accurately be called a "far date" or even a "very far date" based on its positioning relative to Liberty's portrait, and that early die state (EDS) versions show a nice dash under the second 8 — implying the dash becomes less distinct as die wear progresses through later states. The variety is also noted as available in Prooflike (PL) and Deep Mirror Prooflike (DMPL) surface finishes, which enhances its appeal to collectors who prize the mirror-like reflectivity of PL Morgan Dollars. The reverse (C3a) is a normal die. The 1885-O Morgan Dollar was struck at the New Orleans Mint in 90% silver at 26.73 grams with a 38.1 mm diameter. The 1885-O had a mintage of approximately 9.2 million pieces, and many were stored in Treasury vaults for decades before being released, making uncirculated examples relatively available despite the date's age. George T. Morgan's design features Liberty in a Phrygian cap on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse. The availability of this variety in PL/DMPL finishes, combined with Bill Fivaz's discovery pedigree (co-author of the Cherrypickers' Guide), makes VAM-10 a notable entry in the 1885-O die marriage catalog.

External References