1879-S VAM-24

Description

Extending well beyond the early catalog entries for the 1879 San Francisco Morgan Dollar, VAM-24 reflects continued discovery of distinct die pairings in this heavily researched date and mint. Where VAM-10 sits among the first documented varieties, VAM-24's higher number indicates it was cataloged later — typically meaning the die's diagnostics were subtler, required specialized reference material, or were discovered as the collector base examining 1879-S dollars expanded. The 1879-S Morgan Dollar's status as a variety-rich issue stems from both its 9,110,000-coin mintage, requiring many working die pairs, and the heightened collector interest generated by the famous reverse type distinction that draws enthusiasts to examine this date more closely than most. George T. Morgan's design was struck in 90% silver at 26.73 grams on 38.1mm planchets. Each ascending VAM number represents a unique die combination with its own diagnostic markers, and the gap between VAM-10 and VAM-24 represents thirteen additional documented pairings. For variety collectors, the depth of 1879-S documentation ensures that specimens can be examined repeatedly as new VAM discoveries continue to be cataloged.

External References