1901-O VAM-6B

Description

Discovered in 2009 by Jason Henrichsen, this 1901 New Orleans Mint Morgan Dollar VAM-6B is cataloged as III21, C4d (High O Set Right, Thread-Like Impression Tail Feathers, Gouges Claw), die pair 181. The reverse C4d classification identifies multiple diagnostic features: a curved thread-like impression running across the tail feathers, combined with gouges in the eagle's claw area. The "High O Set Right" describes the mint mark positioning — the O mint mark sits higher and further right than typical, a consequence of hand-punching the mint mark into the working die. Thread-like impressions on the tail feathers represent thin raised lines on struck coins, caused by fine scratches or incised lines on the die surface that filled with metal during striking. The gouges in the claw area add a second category of die damage to the attribution profile. George T. Morgan's 90% silver dollar reverse renders the eagle's tail feathers and claws in fine detail, making both thread-like impressions and gouges clearly visible under magnification. VAM-6B's combination of mint mark position and die damage features makes it distinctly attributable among 1901-O Morgan varieties. Short die gouges above and below eagle's very right claw. Some heavy die polishing lines at bottom of eagle's right wing and leg.

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