1890-O VAM-1E

Description

Discovered in 2010 by the researcher known as VamHelsing, the 1890-O VAM-1E Morgan Dollar is classified as "Over Polished Reverse Field Edge" under designation 1E III21 - C3a. Both sides show evidence of aggressive die polishing: the obverse has a slightly over-polished field at the denticles, while the reverse displays more extensive polishing effects at the denticles, legend letters, and wreaths — all resulting from an over-polished die that removed fine detail from the peripheral areas. The key die marker is a concentration of heavy short die polishing lines at the left side of the upper tail feathers near the top, providing a reliable attribution point. Over-polished die varieties document the Mint's die maintenance practices, where workers polished dies to remove clash marks or extend die life, sometimes removing more metal than intended. George T. Morgan's silver dollar, struck in 90% silver at the New Orleans Mint, was in its thirteenth year of production by 1890. The New Orleans facility, which operated from 1838 to 1909, produced Morgan Dollars known for their often distinctive strike characteristics and the variety of die states encountered across their production runs.

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