1886-O VAM-1C

Description

Discovered by C. Logan McKechnie in April 2006, the 1886-O VAM-1C carries the designation 1C III21 / C3a (Die Gouge Below Tail Feathers) with VAMWorld reference number 181. The variety is defined by Reverse C2a: a raised triangular dot below the right tail feathers whose precise origin is uncertain. It may result from clashed dies or from a denticle impression on the die face, and there is also the possibility it is an occluded gas bubble rather than a true die feature. Clashed dies are additionally noted in the middle of the reverse field. The 1886-O Morgan dollar is a New Orleans Mint issue struck in 90% silver. VAM — short for Van Allen-Mallis, honoring Leroy Van Allen and A. George Mallis whose landmark reference catalogued Morgan dollar varieties — remains the standard attribution system for these coins. This variety is listed as pending confirmation in the SSDC registry until the triangular dot feature can be verified on additional specimens. Collectors pursuing die-specific varieties of the 1886-O will find this an intriguing attribution given the open question surrounding the dot's formation and whether it ultimately proves to be a die feature or a planchet artifact.

External References