1890-O VAM-4C

Description

Recognized as a WOW! VAM for its dramatic die break, this 1890 New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollar carries the VAM-4C designation under Classification 4C III2 2, C3i, with die pair 181. The variety is described as Doubled 0, O/O Inside, Clashed Obverse G and t, Rusted Die NE, Die Break Americ, combining an extensive array of die characteristics. Most visually striking is the reverse die break: a die crack runs through the tops of AMERI, extends to the rim above the I, and develops into a large displaced field break above ERI to the rim, displacing metal and creating a dramatic raised ridge. This level of die deterioration earns the WOW! designation, which highlights varieties with exceptional visual impact. The obverse displays a doubled 0 in the date and a repunched O mint mark with the original showing inside, along with clashed die impressions of G and t from the reverse. Die rust pitting in the northeast portion of the reverse provides an additional marker. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper at the New Orleans Mint, the 1890-O is part of the Gilded Age production that generated many die varieties across the prolific Morgan Dollar series.

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