1897-S VAM-23

Description

Discovered in November 2024 by Brent Fogelberg, the 1897-S VAM-23 Morgan Dollar is one of the most recently documented additions to the VAM catalog, classified as III2 12 · C3h (Thread Impression, S Slightly Right). The reverse (C3h) features an S mintmark set upright and positioned slightly to the right of the standard location, with re-engraved wreath leaves above the N in ONE — evidence of die repair work where the engraver modified the leaf detail, possibly to correct damage or wear in that area. Die markers on the reverse include lines in the wing-neck gap of the eagle and nearly horizontal die polishing lines in the wreath bow and above the right ribbon end. The DPIS reading of LE3/RH4 provides die position coordinates, and the emission sequence lists the obverse paired with dies 3A, 23, 3, 9, and 16 — documenting multiple die pair combinations that used this obverse die during its service life, a common occurrence where individual dies were rotated between multiple pairings as production demands required. The thread impression noted in the variety designation refers to a fine linear raised element on the die face, likely a manufacturing artifact from the die preparation process. The Morgan Dollar was struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1897 in 90% silver at 26.73 grams with a 38.1 mm diameter during the Gilded Age. George T. Morgan's classic design was well established by this point in the series. The November 2024 discovery date demonstrates that new VAM varieties continue to be identified more than four decades after Van Allen and A. George Mallis published the first comprehensive catalog, reflecting the depth of die variation within the Morgan Dollar series.

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