1901-P VAM-12

Description

Among the most visually arresting Morgan Dollar die varieties, the 1901-P VAM-12 "Spiked Eye" displays a short spike projecting from in front of Liberty's eye, positioned well below the eyelid — a die gouge or die crack that creates the appearance of a thorn or barb extending from the portrait's gaze. Discovered by Marc Serafine in October 1999, the variety is classified as III2 6 with reverse die C4a. "Spiked" varieties on Morgan Dollars are eagerly pursued by VAM collectors because they produce an immediately visible anomaly on the portrait itself, unlike mintmark or date position varieties that require closer scrutiny. The spike's location below the eyelid and in front of the eye places it in one of the most scrutinized areas of Morgan's Liberty Head design, where even small die imperfections draw the viewer's attention. The 1901 Philadelphia issue was produced during the series' final decade — Morgan Dollars would be struck through 1904 before a final encore in 1921. George T. Morgan's detailed Liberty portrait, with its intricate hair curls, cotton bolls, and wheat ears in the wreath beneath the Phrygian cap, provides a complex die surface where small cracks and gouges create memorable named varieties. Struck in 90% silver at 38.1mm and 26.73 grams. Check for the distinctive spike in front of Liberty's eye, below the eyelid.

External References