1894-O VAM-4
Error
Description
Discovered by George Mallis in July 1964 — one of the co-founders of the VAM classification system — the 1894-O Morgan Dollar VAM-4 is identified by doubled date digits, with the 1 doubled below its upper crossbar and the 4 doubled at the top left. The obverse die (III2 2) shows this date doubling paired with reverse die C3a, cataloged as variety number 181. Date doubling on Morgan Dollars results from the separate date punch application process, where a four-digit logotype was impressed into the working die — slight movement during this process created the visible doubling on the finished dies. The 1894-O, struck at the New Orleans Mint, is a moderately scarce date in the Morgan Dollar series, and VAM-4's attribution by George Mallis himself gives it particular provenance. Examining the upper area of the 1 and the top-left of the 4 under magnification reveals the doubled impressions that characterize this early-cataloged variety.
External References
Community & Reference
Related Errors
More VAM Variety Errors
Collector Essentials
Tools for examining and preserving error coins and die varieties.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
Essential for examining die varieties, doubled dies, and RPMs
Cherry Picker's Guide
The definitive reference for U.S. error coins and die varieties
2x2 Coin Flips & Holders
Protect and organize your finds with archival-quality holders
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.