1881-CC VAM-1

Description

Bearing the most coveted mintmark in American numismatics, the 1881-CC VAM-1 is the baseline die pairing for the Carson City Morgan Dollar — produced at the legendary Nevada mint that operated from 1870 to 1893 using silver from the Comstock Lode. Designated 1 III21 with reverse die C3a, the obverse III21 represents the normal die of the III2 type, while reverse C3a is the normal die of the C3 type featuring the distinctive large V CC mintmark. VAM-1 designations identify the standard die pairing for a given date and mint — the reference point against which all other varieties are compared — making this entry essential for systematic study of the 1881-CC issue. Carson City Morgans command significant premiums across all dates and grades, driven by the mint's romantic Old West history, limited operational period, and modest production relative to Philadelphia, San Francisco, and New Orleans. George T. Morgan's Liberty Head design, featuring Liberty in a Phrygian cap on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse, was in its fourth year. Struck in 90% silver at 38.1mm and 26.73 grams. Verify the large V CC mintmark beneath the wreath.

External References