1880-O VAM-19

Description

Discovered by Maurice Dubreuil in February 1977, the 1880-O VAM-19 Morgan Dollar is classified as a Doubled 188 variety under the Van Allen-Mallis numbering system (cataloged as 19 III2 15 - C3a, die pair 176). The Morgan Dollar, designed by George T. Morgan, was struck at the New Orleans Mint in 90% silver at 26.73 grams and 38.1 mm diameter. On the obverse (die III2 15), the numeral 1 is doubled above and below and to the right of the bottom crossbar. Both 8s show slight doubling at the bottom inside of their loops, while the second 8 is doubled at the lower left outside of the upper loop. Some specimens also display die chips at the lower left outside of the lower loop of both 8s, providing additional authentication markers. The 1880-O issue from the New Orleans Mint is part of a year with extensive VAM variety documentation, reflecting the hand-punched date production methods of this facility. Collectors attributing this variety should focus on the doubled date digits under magnification, particularly the crossbar area of the 1 and the inner loops of both 8s.

External References