1922-P VAM-1I

Description

Attributed to David Close, the 1922-P VAM-1I identifies a Peace Dollar obverse die featuring a small die chip near the tip of the lower back hair strand. Classified as II-1 with reverse die B1a, rated I-2 for collectibility, this variety carries an R-6 rarity designation — 13 to 30 known specimens — a genuinely scarce variety within the most prolific Peace Dollar date. Die chips occur when a small fragment of the die surface breaks away, leaving a void that fills with metal during striking and produces a raised bump on the finished coin. The hair strand location is particularly diagnostic because de Francisci rendered Liberty's hair in flowing waves beneath the radiant crown, and a chip on the lower back strand creates a clearly identifiable raised feature. The 1922 Philadelphia Peace Dollar had the highest mintage of the entire series at over 51 million coins, making the R-6 population a remarkably small fraction. Struck in 90% silver at 38.1mm, examine the tip of the lower back hair strand for the small raised die chip. =1922-P VAM-1I Die Chip Lower Back Hair Strand= Discovered by David Close.

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