1925-P VAM-1AK

Description

Discovered in 2012 by BJV, VAM-1AK on the 1925 Peace Dollar preserves die file lines running in various directions across the upper reverse, concentrated at the eagle's right shoulder and extending through the letters NUM of UNUM. These file lines are die preparation artifacts — directional marks left when the Mint polished or resurfaced the die face using abrasive tools, with varied orientations indicating multiple passes at different angles. Classified under the Van Allen-Mallis system as die pair II1 on the obverse and B2a on the reverse, this variety carries an R-5 rarity rating with an estimated 13 to 30 specimens known and interest level I-2. The variety is distinct from VAM-1H, which shows different file line characteristics, making comparison essential for accurate attribution. The 1925 Philadelphia Peace Dollar saw a mintage of over 10 million pieces, but R-5 rarity confirms that this particular die pairing produced only a small fraction of the total. Anthony de Francisci's reverse design features the word UNUM as part of the perched eagle's surround, and file lines cutting through NUM provide a readily identifiable diagnostic for collectors examining the upper reverse.

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