1885-S VAM-1A

Description

Potentially headed for delisting, this 1885-S Morgan Dollar variety carries an important classification caveat: VAM researchers have noted that all examined specimens appear to be 1885-S VAM-7A rather than a distinct die pair, raising the possibility that VAM-1A should be removed as a duplicate entry. Collectors should be aware of this classification consideration when attributing their coins. VAM plate notation 1A III2 1 - C3a describes the variety with reverse die C3a exhibiting a large die flake in the left wreath, matching the diagnostic seen on VAM-7A. Die flakes form when a thin layer of die steel separates from the surface, typically due to thermal stress or metal fatigue, leaving a void that produces a raised area on struck coins. The San Francisco Mint's 1885-S Morgan Dollar is a scarce date, carrying a relatively low mintage that makes all die varieties from this date-mint of heightened interest. The potential overlap between VAM-1A and VAM-7A illustrates the evolving nature of VAM research, where improved documentation can reveal that separately cataloged varieties actually represent the same die pair observed under different conditions or by different researchers.

External References