1923-S VAM-1AY
Error
Description
Originally cataloged as a distinct variety, the 1923-S Peace Dollar VAM-1AY was eliminated from the VAM catalog in 2014 and redesignated as VAM-1AQ2, reflecting a determination that this die pair represented a later state of the VAM-1AQ obverse rather than a separate variety. The obverse die (II1) shows heavy die file lines in the left field — an attempt to remove a die crack running from LI down to IN on the obverse — paired with reverse die B2a. With an I-2 interest level and R-5 rarity rating, this variety documents a fascinating case of die maintenance, where the Mint attempted to extend the die's service life by mechanically filing away the cracked surface. Die file lines leave characteristic raised parallel marks on struck coins that are unmistakable under magnification. The elimination and redesignation as VAM-1AQ2 illustrates how the VAM catalog evolves as researchers better understand die state progressions, and specimens originally attributed as VAM-1AY should now be cross-referenced to the updated VAM-1AQ2 designation.
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