1878-CC VAM-1A
Error
Description
The 1878-CC VAM-1A Morgan dollar, designated Line in Eye, pairs obverse II 1 with reverse B1a. The obverse carries distinctive die scratches: a thin line through the bottom of the R in LIBERTY, a thick line extending from the middle of the eyelash, a thin line at the bottom corner of the eye, and a thick scratch at the rear of the nostril. The "Line in Eye" name derives from the prominent eyelash scratch. Cataloging notes indicate this listing should be cross-checked with VAM-20. The reverse B1a is a normal 1878 Philadelphia Type B1 die with a long center arrow shaft, repurposed for Carson City with medium-spaced small II CC mintmarks at medium height. This obverse saw use across at least three pairings: VAM-1A, VAM-3, and VAM-17, demonstrating the Mint's practice of rotating dies through multiple reverse pairings. The 1878-CC holds special significance as the inaugural Carson City Morgan dollar, and any documented variety commands heightened interest. Examine Liberty's eye for the thick descending line from the eyelash center.
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