1897-O VAM-17
Error
Description
Discovered by Ed Pope in February 2023, the 1897-O Morgan Dollar VAM-17 is classified as III2 10, C3j reverse, die pair unknown (Very Near Date, O Tilted Right, Spike on Leg). The obverse shows the date positioned far left of normal, with heavy die polishing lines in LIBERTY and lower hair. The reverse carries an O mintmark centered and tilted slightly to the right, along with a long horizontal spike extending into the field from the lower outside of the eagle's left leg. The reverse die marker consists of lines in the wing-neck gap. DPIS position is recorded as RE2/LH4. The leg spike is the most visually dramatic feature of this variety, as horizontal field spikes are uncommon and immediately draw attention during examination. The combination of a very near date, tilted O, and leg spike creates a three-feature variety with diagnostics distributed across both sides.
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