1923-P VAM-1AP

Description

Discovered by Steve Bandovich in January 2006 and cataloged as 1AP II 1 - B2a with ratings of I-2 R-6, this 1923 Philadelphia Mint Peace Dollar is designated "Die Chip Ray Top." The primary diagnostic is a tiny die chip at the top of the next-to-last right ray of Liberty's radiant crown, while a small semicircular die chip appears above the last right ray — these features result from fragments of die steel breaking away at the tips of the crown's pointed rays, areas susceptible to metal fatigue due to their sharp geometry. Die chips on ray tips form when the fine points of the die's incuse design fracture under repeated striking pressure, and the resulting voids fill with metal during subsequent impressions to create raised bumps. The radiant crown is a defining element of Anthony de Francisci's obverse design, and its numerous pointed rays provide multiple locations where chipping can develop. Die class II 1 indicates a normal obverse in first subclass, paired with reverse B2a. Philadelphia Mint, 90% silver. At R-6 rarity with an estimated 12 to 30 specimens known, this variety requires focused examination of the ray tips to identify the diagnostic chips that distinguish it from other 1923-P VAMs.

External References