1903-O VAM-10

Description

Discovered by Martin Field in April 1985, the 1903-O VAM-10 records a Morgan Dollar with the O mintmark tilted to the right beneath the wreath on the reverse, paired with a C4f reverse die classification. This variety was struck at the New Orleans Mint during the facility's final year of Morgan Dollar production — 1903 was the last date the O mint produced Morgans before the design's original run ended, making every 1903-O die variety a product of the series' closing chapter at New Orleans. The rightward tilt occurred when the mintmark punch was hand-applied at a clockwise angle, a permanent characteristic distinguishing this die from all others bearing the O mintmark that year. Mintmark orientation was entirely dependent on the engraver's hand, and tilted mintmarks are among the most easily verified VAM diagnostics. The New Orleans Mint operated from 1838 to 1909 and would continue striking other denominations for six more years after the Morgan's departure. Struck in 90% silver at 38.1mm and 26.73 grams. Examine the O mintmark below the wreath for its rightward tilt to confirm this variety from the final New Orleans Morgan year.

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