1898-O VAM-25

Description

First documented in 2010, the 1898-O VAM-25 is a multi-feature variety on the New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollar combining obverse date traits with reverse mintmark positioning. Cataloged as 25 III2 16 with classification C3b (Doubled Right 8, Very Near Date, O Set Right), die pair 181, this variety presents three simultaneous diagnostics. On the obverse, the right 8 is slightly doubled at the top right inside its lower loop, and the date is set much further left than normal — described as "very near date" because the digits sit unusually close to the rim. The reverse shows the O mintmark set to the right of its standard position. This convergence of a doubled digit, atypical date placement, and offset mintmark within a single die marriage makes VAM-25 identifiable through multiple independent features, each capable of confirming the attribution individually. The very near date characteristic is particularly useful as a first-look diagnostic, since date position can be assessed without magnification, allowing collectors to quickly identify candidates for closer examination of the more subtle doubled 8 and mintmark offset on this New Orleans Mint issue.

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