1884-S VAM-16
Error
Description
Discovered by Ed Pope in November 2022, the 1884-S VAM-16 Morgan Dollar is classified as III2 2, C3i with a far date and re-engraved leaves. The obverse die places the date to the right of normal position, with die polishing lines visible within BER of LIBERTY and faint lines running between the cotton bolls. On the reverse, the S mint mark sits centered and upright, while re-engraved leaves appear in the left wreath opposite ON, UN, and IT of the surrounding legend. A small lump on the left side of the upper left leaf opposite E in UNITED may appear only on later die stages, providing an additional attribution point for die state identification. Reverse die markers include polishing lines in the wing-neck gap and die scratches inside the wreath bow. The die pair identification sequence links this obverse with VAM-3, confirming shared obverse die usage. San Francisco Morgan Dollars from 1884 carry relatively low mintages compared to Philadelphia production, and re-engraved leaves of this type reflect the Mint's practice of sharpening worn die details to extend die life.
External References
Community & Reference
Related Errors
More VAM Variety Errors
Collector Essentials
Tools for examining and preserving error coins and die varieties.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
Essential for examining die varieties, doubled dies, and RPMs
Cherry Picker's Guide
The definitive reference for U.S. error coins and die varieties
2x2 Coin Flips & Holders
Protect and organize your finds with archival-quality holders
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.