1884-P VAM-17

Description

Cataloged as VAM-17 under classification III2 16 with a C3a reverse, titled Possible 4 in Denticles, Die Scratches E, this Philadelphia Morgan dollar presents an intriguing possible misplaced digit. The obverse shows what appears to be the top of a 4 visible as a raised bar in the denticle space to the left of the left 8, suggesting the date punch left a partial impression outside its intended position. Three diagonal die scratches between the sixth left star and E, along with a long diagonal scratch on Liberty's forehead, provide additional diagnostics. The date sits at the right side of normal lateral placement, consistent with the possible misplaced 4 appearing in the denticles to the left. Not all examples exhibit the die scratches near E, and not all examples show clashing, indicating these features developed or disappeared at different points in the die's service life. The C3a reverse is a normal die. Misplaced date digits in the denticle area occur when the date punch contacts the die face slightly off-target, and confirming such features requires careful comparison against the known digit shape.

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