1922-S VAM-1S

Description

Discovered in 2010, the 1922-S Peace Dollar VAM-1S features die wear ripple bands on the reverse (die B1a) visible above the letters CE of PEACE and at the lower olive leaves — a distinctive form of die deterioration where wavy, concentric-like patterns develop from extended die use. Paired with obverse die II1 and carrying an I-3 interest level with R-6 rarity, this variety documents an advanced stage of die wear where the die surface develops undulating deformations from repeated striking. Ripple bands differ from die file lines or lathe tooling marks in that they result from the die's natural wear process rather than intentional maintenance, representing metal fatigue and flow in the die steel under sustained use. The R-6 rarity indicates only 13 to 30 known specimens, consistent with a die that was likely near the end of its service life when these wear patterns became prominent. The eliminated variety VAM-1AM was determined to be the same as VAM-1S, meaning collectors encountering that retired designation should reference VAM-1S for the current attribution. The I-3 interest level reflects the visual distinctiveness of ripple band varieties.

External References