1922-P VAM-1H

Description

Discovered by David Close, the 1922-P VAM-1H "Bar Between N-G" Peace dollar features a broad vertical die gouge positioned between the letters N and G of IN GOD on Anthony de Francisci's obverse. Cataloged as 1H II 1 · B1a (Bar Between N-G) with die classification I-2 and rarity rating R-5 (approximately 30-75 known), this variety is specifically distinguished from other N-G bar varieties by its width — the catalog notes it is wider than the die gouges on VAMs 1B and 1D, providing a clear comparative diagnostic for attributors working through the multiple bar varieties documented for this date. Philadelphia struck approximately 51.74 million Peace dollars in 1922, the highest single-year mintage in the entire series, and the enormous production volume generated a correspondingly deep census of sub-varieties for the VAM-1 die family. The broad vertical die gouge between N and G would appear on struck coins as a raised vertical bar connecting or bridging the space between the two letters in the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. Die gouges of this type can originate from foreign material impacting the die surface, tool marks during die preparation, or damage sustained during die handling and storage. The specific notation that this gouge is wider than those on VAMs 1B and 1D establishes a diagnostic hierarchy within the N-G bar sub-varieties, requiring collectors to assess the relative width of the bar feature when distinguishing between these closely related varieties. The B1a reverse classification (rather than the more common B2a) indicates a specific reverse die type that provides an additional attribution anchor. Collectors should use 15x magnification focused on the space between N and G of IN GOD, comparing the bar's width against reference images of VAMs 1B and 1D to confirm the broader gouge diagnostic.

External References