1922-P VAM-1D

Description

Discovered by David Close, the 1922-P VAM-1D "Vertical Die Gouge Between IN & GOD" Peace dollar documents a die preparation artifact on the obverse of Anthony de Francisci's design. Cataloged as 1D II 1 · B1a (Vertical Die Gouge Between IN & GOD) with die classification I-3 and rarity rating R-4 (approximately 75-200 known), this variety features a vertical die gouge passing through the dot separator between the N of IN and the G of GOD in the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. Die gouges are linear depressions in the die surface — typically created by foreign material dragged across the die during finishing or by accidental tool contact — that produce corresponding raised lines on struck coins. The vertical orientation of this gouge passing through the period between IN and GOD provides a repeatable diagnostic that distinguishes VAM-1D from the numerous other sub-varieties within the expansive 1922-P VAM-1 family. Philadelphia struck approximately 51.74 million Peace dollars in 1922, the highest single-date mintage in the series, generating an enormous number of die pairs that have yielded an exceptionally deep sub-variety catalog. The I-3 die classification and R-4 rarity indicate moderate availability — between 75 and 200 specimens are estimated to exist — placing this variety within reach of dedicated collectors who systematically examine 1922 Philadelphia Peace dollars. David Close, a prolific contributor to the Peace dollar VAM catalog, has documented dozens of varieties characterized by die gouges, scratches, and preparation artifacts that provide unique fingerprints for individual working dies. The standard B1a reverse pairing confirms the diagnostic interest lies entirely on the obverse die surface.

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