1885-S VAM-5A

Description

Evolving from the original VAM-5 die state, this 1885 San Francisco Mint Morgan Dollar carries the "A" suffix indicating die state progression — the reverse die has been slightly polished from the VAM-5 stage, altering the surface while the fundamental die pair remains the same. The variety is described as "Far Date" because the date numerals sit further from the rim than standard, a diagnostic that helps collectors identify the correct obverse die. A small die chip on the eagle's right wing, opposite the wreath tip, serves as the primary reverse attribution marker. The VAM plate notation 5 III2 5 - C3a identifies the obverse and reverse die classifications within the Van Allen-Mallis system. Die polishing was a routine maintenance procedure where dies showing clash marks, rust pitting, or excessive flow lines were lightly polished to extend service life. This polishing often created new die states that VAM researchers document with letter suffixes. The San Francisco Mint struck Morgan Dollars in lower quantities than Philadelphia or New Orleans during many years, and the 1885-S is no exception — making die varieties from this mint of particular interest to VAM specialists.

External References