1899-S VAM-15
Error
Description
Date positioning tells a story of die preparation, and VAM-15 of the 1899-S Morgan Dollar records a slanted date where the right 9 sits higher than the 1, combined with Open 9s throughout. The slant results from the date logotype being punched into the working die at a slight angle rather than perfectly horizontal, a variation that occurred during the manual die preparation process. Open 9s, where the loops remain clearly open rather than filled, identify the specific digit punch used. The San Francisco Mint produced Morgan Dollars from 1878 through 1904 and again in 1921, and its hand-punched dates and mintmarks generated a consistent stream of positional varieties. Cataloged as plate 15 III2 8 - C3e (184), this variety sits well into the 1899-S census, reflecting the depth of research applied to San Francisco Morgan Dollar die pairings. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, the 1899-S VAM-15 rewards collectors who examine date alignment carefully under magnification.
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.