1885-P VAM-1L

Description

The 1885-P VAM-1L Morgan Dollar was discovered by Mitch Hill in 2013, classified as III2 6 - C3a and designated "Die Break E," referring to a significant die crack and break affecting the letter E on the obverse. This Philadelphia Mint silver dollar weighs 26.73 grams, measures 38.1 mm in diameter, and is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. The obverse (die state III2 1) features a radial die crack extending from the rim through the E in E PLURIBUS, continuing over toward Liberty's nose, with a slight displaced field break accompanying the crack. As the die continued in service, the crack progressed dramatically: a large crack developed going through the Phrygian cap, through the wheat stalks, through the LI of LIBERTY, and over to the P in PLURIBUS, tracing a substantial arc across Liberty's head. Additionally, the upper portion of the G in GOD became filled, likely from die debris accumulating in the recessed letter during the striking process. The DPIS (Die Progression Identification System) notation is included though specific values are not assigned. The 1885 Philadelphia Morgan Dollar had a mintage of approximately 17.8 million pieces, one of the higher production figures in the series, making the date readily available in lower grades while gem examples command strong premiums. Die break varieties on Morgan Dollars hold special appeal because the large 38.1 mm planchet displays crack progression paths clearly, and the detailed obverse engraving of George T. Morgan's Liberty design provides numerous intersection points where cracks create distinctive visual patterns.

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