1890-P VAM-15B

Description

Discovered in 2017, VAM-15B for the 1890 Philadelphia Mint Morgan Dollar carries the plate designation 15B III2 15 - C3a (Triple Ear, Gouges Below Wreath, Die Break 189) (190). Its most distinctive feature is a triple ear, where three overlapping impressions of Liberty's ear are visible from multiple hub impressions. Triple impressions require at least two misaligned secondary hubbings, making them rarer than standard doubled dies. The obverse die exhibits a die crack below the digits 189 with a displaced field break — a condition where the metal surface shifts along the crack line, creating a visible step. The reverse die, classified C3a, shows die roughness into the field adjacent to the denticles, primarily at the upper and right edges, indicating surface deterioration from extended use. Gouges below the wreath on the reverse add another diagnostic. Philadelphia Mint Morgan Dollars from 1890 bear no mint mark. Collectors should examine Liberty's ear for three distinct impressions, the date area for the displaced field break, and the reverse rim area for the roughness.

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