1886-O VAM-15

Description

Discovered by Martin Field in June 1983, VAM-15 for the 1886-O Morgan Dollar is classified III2 1 C3f, designated "O Set Right, Pitted Reverse," with reference number 181. The 1886-O is a scarcer New Orleans date with a mintage of approximately 10.7 million. This 90% silver issue shows distinctive die characteristics on both sides. The obverse, classified III2 1, carries vertical polishing lines inside the ear and a single line at right of the upper hair curl as die markers. The reverse, classified C3f, was struck from a pitted die that produced raised dots scattered to the left of the olive leaves and at some legend letters — the pitting indicates die surface deterioration, possibly from inadequate storage or cleaning between production runs. The medium O mint mark is set upright and positioned slightly right. New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollars from the mid-1880s are valued for their historical provenance and distinct production characteristics. George T. Morgan's design was struck at New Orleans from 1879 through 1904, and die varieties from this mint often reflect local manufacturing practices.

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