1923 Peace Dollar - VAM-1BI

Description

Cataloged as 1BI II1 · B2a (Die Scratch Between TE in UNITED) with die classification I-2 and rarity rating R-4 (estimated 75-200 known), this variety features a vertical die scratch positioned between the T and E of UNITED on the reverse, extending into the middle horizontal bar of the E. Philadelphia produced approximately 30.8 million Peace dollars in 1923, an enormous production run that demanded hundreds of working die pairs and generated an exceptionally deep catalog of die-specific characteristics. The vertical orientation of the scratch, combined with its extension into the E's middle bar, provides a precise diagnostic that can be confirmed under moderate magnification without ambiguity. Die scratches on reverse dies arise from various workshop incidents — foreign particles trapped during die polishing, accidental tool contact during mintmark application on branch mint dies, or handling damage between the die shop and the coining press. Though the R-4 rarity classification indicates this is among the more available Peace dollar VAM varieties, the BI suffix reveals how extensively the VAM-1 die marriage has been documented for 1923-P, with well over sixty sub-varieties cataloged. Jason Henrichsen's contributions to the Peace dollar VAM census reflect the ongoing collaborative research that continues to expand the catalog decades after Van Allen and Mallis's foundational work. Examination under 10-15x magnification focused on the reverse inscription UNITED should readily reveal the vertical scratch between T and E.

External References