1901-O VAM-9

Description

Discovered by Oscar Simpson in January 1977, the 1901-O VAM-9 captures a mintmark position variety where the O sits noticeably high relative to the eagle's tail feathers and tilts slightly to the right. Classified as III2 1 with reverse die C3b, the variety's defining feature is entirely on the reverse — the combination of elevated position and rightward tilt creates a mintmark placement distinctly different from the normal centered O. During the Morgan Dollar era, every working die destined for the New Orleans branch mint had its O mintmark individually hand-punched by a Mint employee at Philadelphia, and the position, depth, and angle of each punch application varied from die to die. The "high with slight tilt to right" placement on VAM-9 is one of several mintmark position variants cataloged for the 1901-O, each representing a different die that received its O at a unique angle and height. The 1901-O Morgan Dollar was struck during what would be the New Orleans Mint's final significant Morgan Dollar production — the series would end in 1904 before a brief 1921 revival, but New Orleans would not participate in the final year. Struck in 90% silver at 38.1mm and 26.73 grams. Check the O mintmark for its characteristically high placement and rightward tilt below the eagle's tail.

External References