1889 Morgan Dollar - VAM-22

Description

Holding dual distinction as both a Top 100 Morgan VAM and a WOW! VAM, this Philadelphia Mint 1889 Morgan Dollar was discovered by Michael Fey in May 1997 with additional work by C. Logan McKechnie in September 2002. Classified as VAM-22 with designation III2 5 and reverse die C3b, the variety is described as Bar Wing, Far Date. The reverse C3b in its later die state developed a die break on top of the eagle's right wing manifesting as a short parallel bar, creating the dramatic feature behind the variety's name. This bar-like break transforms the wing profile into one of the most recognizable features among Morgan Dollar varieties, explaining its inclusion in both Top 100 and WOW! listings. The variety number 190 situates this within the 1889-P classification. The far date component indicates date digits positioned further from Liberty's portrait than standard, adding a second attributable characteristic. The combination of an obverse positional variety with one of the most dramatic reverse die breaks in the Morgan series makes VAM-22 a cornerstone variety for 1889 Philadelphia Morgan Dollar collectors.

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