1889-O VAM-13J

Description

A thread-like die impression on the reverse distinguishes VAM-13J as an unusual variety among 1889 New Orleans Morgan Dollars. Discovered in 2019 by LD Lane, known in the VAM community as ChiefRet, this variety is classified as III2 8 C3a with the descriptive title "Far Date, Thread-Like Die Impression Upper TF." The obverse features a far date — the numerals positioned further from the rim than on standard die pairings — while the reverse carries a curved, thread-like die impression on the right side of the upper tail feathers area. Thread-like impressions of this nature are uncommon and may result from foreign material adhering to the die surface during striking, fine scratches in the die steel from handling or cleaning, or microscopic surface irregularities transferred during the hubbing process. The sub-variety designation "13J" indicates this belongs to the VAM-13 die family, with the J suffix marking it as the tenth sequential sub-variety identified within that family. The 1889-O Morgan Dollar had a mintage of 11,875,000 pieces, a healthy production figure that nonetheless makes certain die-specific varieties challenging to locate among the broader surviving population.

External References