1888-P VAM-15A

Description

Attributed by John Laney in October 2013, this Philadelphia Mint 1888 Morgan Dollar carries the VAM-15A designation under die classification III2 12 with reverse die C3a, described as Doubled Right 8, Worn Reverse Die, and bearing a die pairing number of 190. The obverse shows doubling on the rightmost digit 8 of the date, where a secondary impression is visible within the numeral's curves. The reverse die C3a reached an advanced state of deterioration, exhibiting die sinking and surface roughness concentrated around the left legend letters and the left portion of the wreath, hallmarks of a die approaching the end of its useful service life. Catalog records indicate this variety is closely related to the 1888-P VAM-39A, which was subsequently delisted, suggesting these two designations may represent overlapping die states or closely allied die marriages that required reconciliation. The worn reverse die characteristics serve as the primary attribution feature, as the roughened surfaces around the left legend create a distinctive tactile and visual signature distinguishing VAM-15A from other 1888 Philadelphia Morgan Dollar die pairs.

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