1885-O VAM-1

Description

As the baseline die pairing for the 1885-O Morgan Dollar, VAM-1 establishes the normal die standard against which all other VAMs for this date and mint are measured. Every VAM census begins with VAM-1 to document the expected die characteristics before cataloging deviations. This normal die pairing presents a Type III2 obverse with standard features and a C3a reverse carrying a circular, medium-sized O mint mark that is centered and upright. The mintmark position is significant because each New Orleans Mint working die received its O through individual hand-punching, and VAM-1 records the centered, upright orientation as the norm. The 1885-O Morgan Dollar is among the more common dates in the series despite a relatively modest original mintage, because a large hoard of uncirculated specimens was released from Treasury vaults in the early 1960s. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper at 26.73 grams, the 1885-O exemplifies New Orleans Mint production during the peak Morgan Dollar era. For variety collectors, VAM-1 serves as the essential reference point, and any deviation in mintmark tilt, position, or die features signals a different VAM designation.

External References