1921-S VAM-1AI

Description

Discovered by C. Logan McKechnie in August 2006, the 1921-S VAM-1AI Morgan Dollar carries the classification IV 1 · D2a (Die Scratches Eagle's Right Leg) with die pairing number 189. The reverse (D2a) is the defining feature of this variety, displaying a horizontal die scratch running through the eagle's right leg along with two diagonal scratches connecting the bottom of the eagle's right wing to the leg — three linear marks that create a distinctive triangulated pattern within the heraldic eagle's anatomy. These die scratches were likely introduced during die preparation or polishing and serve as the primary attribution diagnostics since the obverse is otherwise unremarkable. The catalog notes reference V1CX, indicating a related variety or die state cross-reference within the VAM system. As with all 1921-dated Morgan Dollars, the dates were part of the master die rather than individually punched into each working die, which eliminates date position variation as a diagnostic variable — meaning all date-related features on 1921 Morgan dies originate from the master die and are shared across all working dies of that year. The Morgan Dollar was struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1921, the final year of Morgan Dollar production before the Peace Dollar replaced it later that year. Composed of 90% silver at 26.73 grams with a 38.1 mm diameter, the 1921-S had a significant mintage as the Mint produced large quantities of silver dollars under the Pittman Act of 1918, which authorized the melting and recoinage of millions of silver dollars. The three-scratch pattern on the eagle's right leg and wing junction provides a reliable quick-check diagnostic visible under moderate magnification.

External References