1889-O VAM-12
Error
Description
Discovered by Maurice Dubreuil in February 1975, this 1889-O Morgan Dollar VAM-12 is classified as III2 7 - C3a, cataloged in the standard VAM reference at entry 181. The variety's defining obverse characteristic is a doubled 1, visible below the upper crossbar of the numeral, paired with a far date where the date is set further right than normal. The first 8 in the date may also exhibit die chips between the loop on both sides, providing an additional diagnostic marker for attribution. New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollars from 1889 are well-studied by VAM collectors, and the combination of the doubled digit with the shifted date position makes VAM-12 identifiable even on moderately circulated specimens. The far date feature, where the numerals sit distinctly further right than the typical position, is immediately apparent when compared side by side with a normal-date 1889-O, making this one of the more accessible VAM varieties for collectors developing their attribution skills on New Orleans Mint Morgans.
External References
Community & Reference
Related Errors
More VAM Variety Errors
Collector Essentials
Tools for examining and preserving error coins and die varieties.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
Essential for examining die varieties, doubled dies, and RPMs
Cherry Picker's Guide
The definitive reference for U.S. error coins and die varieties
2x2 Coin Flips & Holders
Protect and organize your finds with archival-quality holders
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.