1921 Splasher - J-A1921-1

Coin Details

Description

This 1921 splasher, cataloged as Judd appendix A1921-1, is a soft impression taken from a die during the engraving process. The year 1921 was pivotal in American numismatics: it marked both the final year of Morgan dollar production and the introduction of the Peace dollar designed by Anthony de Francisci. The Philadelphia Mint was actively preparing dies for the new Peace dollar throughout much of 1921, with the first Peace dollars struck in late December. This splasher may be connected to the die preparation work for either the final Morgan dollar dies or the new Peace dollar dies, both of which required significant attention from the engraving department during this transitional year. Without a denomination specified in the Judd listing, the exact attribution remains undocumented. Splashers from 1921 are of particular interest because of the historically significant coinage activity that year. The Peace dollar's high-relief original design by de Francisci would have required extensive die testing and adjustment, making splashers an expected byproduct of the development process. Whatever its specific attribution, this splasher provides tangible evidence of the Mint's die preparation work during one of the most important transition years in the silver dollar series.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. The specific attribution of this splasher adds to its interest given the historically significant coinage transitions of 1921.

Cross References

Judd A1921-1; Pollock; United States Mint, Philadelphia; cf. Morgan dollar (final year) / Peace dollar (first year)