1922-D VAM-1

Description

Holding the foundational VAM-1 designation for the 1922 Denver Peace dollar, this variety was discovered by Robert Maxey in January 1981 and documents an "Early Design" die with reverse classification B1a — the first reverse design type used in 1922 Denver production before transitioning to later die configurations. The I-1 interest level and R-2 rarity rating indicate this is a readily available variety with moderate population, as R-2 corresponds to an estimated 400 to 1,300 known examples. Die state II1 places the obverse in its standard configuration. Denver struck approximately 15.1 million Peace dollars in 1922, the first year the Denver Mint produced this denomination following Philadelphia's exclusive 1921 debut in the high-relief format. The B1a reverse designation carries particular significance within the VAM framework, as "Early Design" distinguishes this die from the later B2-series reverse dies that characterize the majority of 1922-D production. Anthony de Francisci's design had been modified to lower relief after the 1921 high-relief coins proved difficult to stack and distribute, and the B1a reverse preserves the earliest die configuration employed at Denver for the revised design. Maxey's systematic documentation of Peace dollar die marriages in the early 1980s established the foundation for the comprehensive VAM census that continues to grow decades later. As VAM-1, this variety serves as the baseline reference point for the 1922-D date, against which all subsequent VAM numbers are compared and contrasted.

External References