1887-O VAM-11C

Description

First reported in 2013 by the researcher known as bjsilverfox, this die state variant of the 1887 New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollar documents a progressing radial die crack extending from the rim up between the 8 and 7 of the date to the lower hair detail. The "C" suffix on VAM-11C indicates the third documented die state, showing the crack at a more advanced stage than the earlier VAM-11 and VAM-11A states. Described as "Near Date" for the close positioning of the date numerals relative to the rim, this obverse die is further distinguished by a displaced field break along the crack — a condition where the die fracture has shifted the surrounding metal, creating a visible step or ridge adjacent to the crack line. Displaced field breaks represent a more severe stage of die failure than simple die cracks, as the die metal has actually moved rather than merely separating. The VAM plate notation 11C III2 11 - C3a places this variety within the Van Allen-Mallis framework. The 1887-O was struck at New Orleans during mandatory silver dollar production under the Bland-Allison Act, which would be superseded by the Sherman Silver Purchase Act in 1890. =1887-O VAM-11C Near Date, Die Break 87 = Discovery 2013 by bjsilverfox. 11C III2 11- C3a (Near Date, Die Break 87 ) (?) Obverse III2 11 - Radial die crack from rim up between 87 to lower hair with displaced field break along crack.

External References