1886-P VAM-1E2

Description

Discovered by Gene Gress in 2007, the 1886-P VAM-1E2 Morgan Dollar is classified as III2 1 – C3a (Curved Spiked 6, Die Break S) with die pairing number 189. The obverse features a "Curved Spiked 6" — an anomalous raised spike emanating from the numeral 6 in the 1886 date that follows a curved trajectory, created by a die gouge, crack, or metal displacement near the date numeral that became part of the die\'s permanent character. The reverse (C3a) exhibits a die crack running through the tops of the letters STATES, with a die break at the top left of the left S and a die chip at the top right of the right T — progressive structural deterioration concentrated along the upper portions of this reverse inscription. The catalog commentary provides important die state relationships: VAM-1E1 represents an unclashed state with some specimens having lighter die cracks on the reverse and no breaks at the S, establishing VAM-1E2 as the later, more deteriorated state. VAM-1E2 can appear either clashed or unclashed, indicating the clash event (if present) occurred independently of the progressive crack development. The notation that VAM-1E2 is "same as" VAM-1E1 confirms they share the same die pair at different stages of die life. George T. Morgan\'s design was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1886 in 90% silver at 26.73 grams with a 38.1 mm diameter. The 1886-P had a mintage of approximately 19.96 million pieces. The curved spike on the 6 provides a distinctive visual diagnostic visible under low magnification, while the progressive reverse cracking through STATES and the die break at the left S document the die\'s structural history through its various states.

External References