1888-S VAM-3C
Error
Description
Discovered in 2012, this San Francisco Morgan dollar is cataloged as VAM-3C under classification III2 2 with a C3a reverse, formally designated Double 8, Near Date, Gouge Above RIB, with an S/S mintmark. The obverse features two long die gouges or scratches running along the denticles above the letters RIB of PLURIBUS, serving as the primary obverse diagnostics. The reverse carries an S over S repunched mintmark that is set to the right and tilted slightly in that direction. Despite sharing a family number, VAM-3C does not use the same obverse or reverse die as VAM-3, VAM-3A1, VAM-3A2, or VAM-3B, making it an entirely independent die pairing within the VAM-3 group. The exact same reverse die, however, was employed to strike 1888-S VAM-2, VAM-14, and VAM-14A, creating a multi-variety reverse die lineage that collectors can trace through progressive die state changes. Confirming this variety requires locating both the distinctive denticle-area gouges above RIB on the obverse and the repunched S mintmark on the reverse.
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