1883-O VAM-10

Description

Originally discovered by Leonard Hinckley in February 1974, the 1883-O VAM-10 Morgan Dollar carries a significant cataloging note: it was eliminated in 2016 and reclassified as VAM-31A. The original designation was 10 III2 5 - C3g, classified as a High 8, O/O Low variety. On the obverse (III2 5), the second 8 in the date was set higher than the first 8 — a date-placement anomaly resulting from the logotype punch positioning during die manufacture. The reverse (C3g) displayed an O/O Low mintmark, where the New Orleans Mint's O mintmark was punched more than once with the secondary impression positioned lower than the final placement. The reclassification to VAM-31A reflects the VAM cataloging community's ongoing refinement process, where additional research, die state analysis, or the discovery of connecting die states may lead to varieties being merged, renumbered, or reassigned. This reclassification means collectors referencing older VAM guides should be aware that coins previously attributed as VAM-10 should now be correctly identified as VAM-31A. George T. Morgan designed the silver dollar, struck at the New Orleans Mint in 90% silver and 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams at 38.1 mm diameter with a reeded edge. The New Orleans Mint, which operated from 1838 to 1909, produced Morgan Dollars from 1879 through 1904 — coins prized for their Southern provenance and the distinctive striking characteristics associated with the facility. The 1883-O is a relatively common date in the Morgan series but remains actively collected by VAM enthusiasts who catalog the numerous die varieties produced across its mintage. Leonard Hinckley's original 1974 discovery contributed to the early documentation of Morgan Dollar die varieties that eventually became the comprehensive VAM reference system.

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