1878-P VAM-14.4A

Description

Discovered in May 2025 by Michael Dustin, 1878-P VAM-14.4A is catalogued as 14.4A I2 2 · A1i — Concave Field, Reverse Gouges — on the Reverse of 1878 die marriage. The obverse I2 2 is the same die as 1878-P VAM-14 in a later die state, carrying die cracks through the tops of stars 11, 12, and 13. The primary obverse die marker is a concave field running from Liberty's neck to the outer lowest cotton leaf. The reverse A1i matches VAM-14.3A in a later die state, with a die gouge from the right wheat ear to the eagle's tail feather tip and a second gouge below the olive branch stem. The Reverse of 1878 is one of two reverse hub types used during Philadelphia's first year of Morgan dollar production, distinguishable by its eight tail feathers. The 1878-P Morgan dollar in 90% silver occupies a foundational position in the Morgan series, and VAM-14.4A's 2025 discovery adds a documented sub-variety to the already heavily studied Reverse of 1878 population. Estimated rarity: R-6.

External References