1885-P VAM-9.1

Description

Designated VAM-9.1 under Classification III2 9, C3a, with die pair 188, this Philadelphia Mint Morgan Dollar documents a Far Date and represents the early die state (EDS) of VAM-9A. The date is set further right than normal. The 1885-P VAM-9.1 and the 1885-P VAM-9A are the exact same die pair, with VAM-9.1 capturing the die before the clashed transfer with the Laurel Wreath Bow gouge developed on later specimens designated as VAM-9A. This die-state relationship means collectors can sequence their specimens by the presence or absence of the clash evidence, with VAM-9.1 predating VAM-9A in the production timeline. Struck in 90% silver at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1885 Morgan Dollar was produced alongside issues from New Orleans and San Francisco. The far date position, set further right than typical 1885-P dies, serves as the primary diagnostic for identifying this die pair regardless of die state. Shared die pair designations like VAM-9.1 / VAM-9A illustrate how the VAM cataloging system tracks progressive die changes across a single die's working life.

External References