1921-P VAM-1K1

Description

David Close's discovery of VAM-1K1 for the 1921 Peace Dollar identified a short oblong die gouge at the back of Liberty's neck near the hair, a distinctive mark on the only high-relief issue in the Peace Dollar series. Designed by Anthony de Francisci, the 1921 Peace Dollar was struck exclusively in high relief with approximately one million pieces before the Mint transitioned to standard relief in 1922. The oblong die gouge differs in shape from typical round die chips, suggesting the die sustained a specific impact or localized flaw. Some specimens also exhibit a collar clash on the obverse, designated K1, where the collar die contacted the obverse and left reeding impressions. Cataloged as plate 1K1 I 1 Aa, this variety presents a normal obverse and reverse type with the die gouge as the primary diagnostic. The high-relief design placed extraordinary stress on working dies, producing a remarkable density of gouges and cracks across the 1921 census. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper at 26.73 grams, this high-relief Peace Dollar documents die damage from the series' inaugural year. =1921-P Peace VAM-1K1 Oblong Die Gouge Back of Neck= Discovered by David Close.

External References