1888-P VAM-3

Description

Among the earliest discovered varieties in the Morgan Dollar VAM catalog, the 1888-P VAM-3 was found by Leonard Hinckley in February 1974 and is classified as 3 III2 3 - C3a with the descriptive label "Very Near Date" and a rarity rating of 190. The obverse shows the date set much further left than the normal position, creating what catalogers designate as a "very near date" placement. However, an important caveat accompanies this listing: there is very little certainty that this variety actually exists as originally described. The coin historically featured alongside this entry was later identified as a near date rather than a very near date, and collectors seeking the true very near date placement are directed to consult VAM-36 and VAM-43 for verified examples. This ambiguity makes the VAM-3 an instructive case in numismatic cataloging, where early attributions sometimes outpace the available physical evidence. Collectors should exercise particular care when attributing coins to this number and cross-check against the confirmed date positions documented under VAM-36 and VAM-43. =1888-P VAM-3 Very Near Date= Discovered by Leonard Hinckley, February 1974.

External References