1923-P VAM-1AI2

Description

David Close discovered this variety in 2012, cataloged as 1AI2 II1 - B2a (Die Gouge Above T, Die Break Y) with rarity ratings of I-2 R-6 for the 1923 Philadelphia Mint Peace Dollar. An R-6 rating places the estimated surviving population at just 13 to 30 coins, making this among the scarcer Peace Dollar VAMs. The obverse die, classified II1, exhibits a die crack extending from the hair bun over to the Y in LIBERTY, with a connecting radial die crack to the left of the Y accompanied by a displaced field break — a significant structural failure where the die surface shifted around the crack. Additional commentary notes a spiked shoulder feature very close to the eagle's neck on the reverse, accompanied by file marks observed on at least two confirmed specimens. The die gouge above the T and the die break at the Y provide the primary diagnostic points for attribution, while the radial crack and displaced field break indicate this die experienced progressive deterioration. Collectors searching for VAM-1AI2 should focus on the LIBERTY area of the obverse and the eagle's shoulder on the reverse for the described features.

External References