1922-P VAM-1J

Description

Reported by Brent Fogelberg in November 2002, the 1922-P VAM-1J documents a Peace Dollar reverse die exhibiting a horizontal die gouge through the lower olive branch. Classified as II-1 with reverse die B1a, this variety's primary diagnostic is a linear raised feature cutting horizontally across the olive branch that the eagle clutches in its talons. Die gouges result from a sharp object scraping across the die surface during preparation or handling, leaving an incuse groove that transfers as a raised line on every coin struck. The horizontal orientation through the lower olive branch distinguishes this gouge from vertical scratches and random marks found on other 1922-P dies. De Francisci's reverse depicts a bald eagle perched atop a mountain with an olive branch symbolizing peace — the design Congress requested to commemorate the end of World War I. The 1922 Philadelphia issue's massive mintage of over 51 million coins means locating this specific die requires careful reverse examination. Struck in 90% silver at 38.1mm, inspect the lower olive branch for the horizontal raised line identifying VAM-1J. =1922-P VAM-1J Die Gouge Lower Olive Branch= Discovered by Brent Fogelberg, November 2002.

External References