1926-S VAM-2A

Description

Discovered by David Close, the 1926-S Peace Dollar VAM-2A features one of the most visually distinctive die imperfections in the series — an oblong, broad die gouge in the shape of a comet below the R in LIBERTY, surrounded by die file lines that were evidently applied to smooth the area around the gouge (die II 1/B2b, High S). With an elevated I-3 interest level — above the standard I-2 — and an R-5 rarity rating, the comet-shaped gouge gives this variety its memorable identity and makes it one of the more recognizable Peace Dollar VAM varieties. The reverse features a high S mint mark (die B2b), adding a mint mark position component to the variety's diagnostics. Die gouges of this size and distinctive shape are unusual — most are small, linear marks — and the surrounding die file lines suggest the gouge was significant enough that the Mint attempted to mitigate its impact. The combination of the memorable comet shape and the elevated interest rating makes VAM-2A a highlight variety for 1926-S Peace Dollar collectors.

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