1926-S VAM-2

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Verified LegacyVAM Variety

Market Value

N/A

Rarity Index

N/A

Discovery Date

1926

Last Sold

N/A

Description

Discovered by Leroy Van Allen in December 1965 — one of the two co-creators of the entire VAM attribution system for Morgan and Peace Dollars — the 1926-S Peace Dollar VAM-2 documents a D mint mark tilted to the right at normal height using the Micro I S mintmark punch set in a high position. Classified as II 1 - B2b with an I-3 interest rating and R-3 rarity, this variety has an estimated population of 201 to 500 confirmed specimens, making it readily collectible. The B2b reverse die classification indicates a normal die of the B2 type with the S mintmark positioned higher than standard placement. Prior to 1990, mintmarks were individually hand-punched into each working die, and variations in height, tilt, and lateral position created the mintmark varieties that the VAM system meticulously catalogs. Van Allen's December 1965 discovery predates the formal publication of his comprehensive catalog with A. George Mallis, reflecting the foundational research that would eventually systematize Morgan and Peace Dollar die variety study. Compare with VAM-3, also an S-mint variety but discovered by Jay Galst, featuring a medium high S tilted slightly left rather than VAM-2's high S. Struck at San Francisco in 90% silver at 26.73 grams on 38.1mm planchets. Examine the S mintmark for its elevated position to confirm the B2b classification.