1923-D VAM-1AE2

Description

Progressive die failure defines VAM-1AE2 of the 1923-D Peace Dollar, featuring both a die break to the left of the numeral 1 in the date and a die break through the letters ED. Discovered in 2010 by rickeybailey32 and cataloged as 1AE2 II1 B2a with I-2 importance and R-6 rarity estimating 13 to 30 known specimens, this variety documents advanced die deterioration. The reverse carries a die crack running through UNITE and continuing upward above the D to the rim, where it widens slightly into a displaced break. Die breaks represent a more advanced stage of failure than cracks, where the die steel actually separates and allows metal to fill the gap, creating raised ridges or lumps on the struck coin. The combination of an obverse date-area break and a reverse lettering break suggests this die pair was nearing the end of its useful life. The Denver Mint struck Peace Dollars from 1922 through 1927, and the 1923-D had a moderate mintage. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper at 26.73 grams, this Peace Dollar captures multiple structural die failures that document the progressive deterioration of a working die pair approaching retirement.

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