1889-P VAM-19B2

Description

The 1889-P VAM-19B2 Morgan Dollar, discovered in 2010 and classified as 19B2 (revised) III2 1 C3b (Doubled Reverse, Clashed Obverse n & t, Clashed Reverse M), carries the VAMWorld distinction of being a "WOW! Morgan VAM" — a designation reserved for varieties considered exceptionally significant or visually impressive within the Morgan Dollar VAM catalog. The reverse (C3b) is the centerpiece: a clashed die with the raised designer's initial M from the obverse appearing above the d in "God" — Morgan's initial M, normally found on the obverse at the truncation of Liberty's neck, was transferred to the reverse die during a die clash event and now appears as a raised element in an unexpected location. The obverse shows clashed n and t from the reverse's inscriptions, documenting bilateral design transfer from the clash event. Later die state specimens show a die break developing on top of the eagle's right wing, connecting this variety to VAM 19A (formerly designated VAM 5a) as a die state progression. The "WOW!" designation from VAMWorld places this among the most celebrated Morgan Dollar varieties, typically reserved for coins with dramatic visual characteristics or historical significance within the collecting community. The Morgan Dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1889 in 90% silver at 26.73 grams with a 38.1 mm diameter. George T. Morgan's design was in its twelfth year. The 1889-P had a mintage of approximately 21.7 million pieces, a substantial production run. The combination of reversed initial M on the reverse, clashed inscription elements on the obverse, and progressive eagle wing die break across die states creates a multi-layered variety with compelling attribution diagnostics and strong collector appeal.

External References