1922-S VAM-1AM

Description

Originally discovered by Ray Castro (known as Hobocarver) in 2014, the 1922-S Peace Dollar VAM-1AM has been eliminated from the active VAM listing and redesignated as identical to VAM-1S. The variety features concentric lines visible at the inscriptions AMERICA and UNUM on the reverse, produced by lathe tooling marks on the die surface (die II1/B1a). These concentric circles result from the die-finishing process, where a lathe was used to smooth or polish the die face — the circular motion of the lathe leaves faint concentric rings that can transfer to struck coins as subtle raised arcs. Originally cataloged as a distinct variety with an I-2 interest level and R-5 rarity rating, subsequent examination determined that VAM-1AM's diagnostics were indistinguishable from those of VAM-1S, leading to its elimination as a separate variety. Eliminated VAMs remain important to document because collectors may encounter specimens attributed to the retired number, and understanding the relationship between redesignated varieties prevents confusion. The 1922-S Peace Dollar was struck at the San Francisco Mint, and lathe tooling marks provide insight into the die preparation methods used across the various mint facilities.

External References