1896-P VAM-6

Description

Discovered by Guy Messing in June 1975, the 1896-P VAM-6 is classified as III2 6, C3a with a near date and doubled 6 as its defining features. The 6 in the date is doubled at the top outside of the upper loop as a thick curved line and at the top outside of the lower loop as a short thin line. This doubling is set higher and is thicker than that seen on VAM-2, an important distinction when differentiating between the two varieties. The date sits further left than normal, consistent with the near date designation. Late die state examples show reverse die cracks, and displaced field breaks visible on LDS specimens are simply die wear patterns across a die crack rather than a separate die feature. Collectors should note the distinction between VAM-6 and VAM-6B: if there is a chip or break between IT on the reverse, the coin is a VAM-6B; without that break, it remains a VAM-6. Philadelphia Morgan Dollars from 1896 had a relatively low mintage of approximately 9.9 million pieces, contributing to the date's modest premium in higher grades.

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