1898-O VAM-2

Description

The 1898-O VAM-2 is classified as III2 2 - C3a and designated "Very Near Date, Doubled 8 Bottom" — combining an extreme date position anomaly with localized digit doubling. The obverse (III2 2) shows the second 8 doubled slightly at the top and right inside of the upper loop and at the top inside and bottom right outside of the lower loop, with the date set much further left than normal. The DPIS (Date Position in Space) measurement is recorded as RH2/LH4, quantifying the leftward displacement in the standardized VAM measurement system. Commentary notes that this variety possibly shares the same reverse die as VAM-14, though VAM-14 specifies a high O mint mark, leaving the relationship uncertain. The Morgan Dollar was designed by George T. Morgan, struck at the New Orleans Mint in 90% silver at 26.73 grams and 38.1 mm diameter. The 1898-O had a mintage of approximately 4.44 million coins, making it a moderately scarce date in the Morgan Dollar series. The "very near" date classification represents the most extreme leftward date displacement category in the VAM system, indicating the digits are positioned significantly closer to the rim denticles than any standard or merely "near" date positioning. New Orleans Morgan Dollars are collected for their Southern provenance and the historical association with the New Orleans Mint, which operated from 1838 to 1909. The doubled 8 bottom provides an additional diagnostic beyond date position, requiring examination of the second 8's loops under magnification to confirm the slight doubling at the specific locations documented in the obverse description.

External References