1901-O VAM-2

Description

Among the earliest documented die varieties for the 1901-O Morgan Dollar, VAM-2 was discovered by Neil Shafer in November 1964 — predating the formal publication of the Van Allen-Mallis reference and representing foundational research that helped establish the VAM classification system. Designated 1 III2 1 - C4a (Normal Die) (181), this variety is classified as a normal die pairing where neither the obverse nor the reverse displays dramatic anomalies, but the specific die combination is nonetheless cataloged for completeness within the VAM framework. The obverse carries a III2 type with a closed 9 in the date, while the reverse exhibits a C4a die configuration featuring a medium-size Type III O mintmark from the New Orleans Mint. The 1901-O is a collectible date in the Morgan Dollar series, with New Orleans producing just over 13 million pieces that year — a modest figure compared to some Philadelphia issues but substantial enough to supply the market with specimens in various grades. New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollars are distinguished by their generally softer strikes compared to Philadelphia and San Francisco issues, a characteristic attributed to the facility's equipment condition and production practices. VAM-2 serves as a baseline die pairing entry within the 1901-O catalog, providing researchers and collectors with a reference point for normal die characteristics against which more dramatic varieties can be compared.

External References