1888-O VAM-21
Error
Description
Discovered by Michael Fey in December 1998, this New Orleans Morgan Dollar holds the prestigious Top 100 Morgan VAM designation, placing it among the most sought-after varieties in the entire series. Cataloged as VAM-21, classified III21, C3i (Oval O Tilted Left), the reverse features a tall oval medium type II O mint mark set in a noticeably high position and tilted to the left, with die chips visible at the top inside of the opening. The Oval O mint mark is one of the most recognizable New Orleans mint mark variations, distinguished by its elongated oval shape compared to the more common round O punch. The leftward tilt adds another layer of distinction, as most O mint marks sit upright or tilt only slightly. Top 100 VAMs were selected for their combination of visual appeal, collectibility, and the significance of their die characteristics. This variety rewards collectors with a mint mark anomaly that is identifiable without extreme magnification, making it both visually engaging and practically attributable in hand.
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