1888-P VAM-7D2

Description

Revised from VAM-7D in August 2023 by Jonnie Durham, VAM-7D2 represents the ninth gouge state of a progressive die deterioration sequence on the 1888 Philadelphia Morgan Dollar — a doubled reverse with die chips and an added gouge on top of the eagle's left talon. Classified as III2 5 - C3d, this variety documents how a single die marriage can produce multiple cataloged stages as the die deteriorates during production. The "State 9" designation indicates extensive tracking of this die's progressive changes, with each gouge state receiving its own sub-VAM number as new damage appeared on the die face. The previous stage, VAM-7D1, represents the same die marriage before this specific talon gouge developed. The 1888 Philadelphia Morgan Dollar is a common date in the series, but the detailed gouge state documentation on this die marriage provides insight into how dies were used until they accumulated significant deterioration before being retired from the press.

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