1923-D VAM-1AH1

Description

Steve Bandovich discovered this Peace dollar die variety in December 2004, and it was subsequently cataloged as VAM-1AH1 within the Van Allen-Mallis attribution system for the 1923-D issue. The primary diagnostic is a die break to the left of Y in LIBERTY -- specifically designated as the "#3" die break at that position, distinguishing it from other VAM varieties exhibiting breaks in the same general area. The full VAM designation reads 1AH1 II 1 B2a (Die Break Left of Y #3) with rarity ratings of I-2 R-6, where the R-6 rarity indicates fewer than 30 specimens are estimated to exist. On the obverse (die pair II 1), a vertical die crack extends from the V in TRVST upward to just above the diagonal bar junction in the Y of LIBERTY, then continues left to the rim above Y where it widens into a displaced field break. A tiny die chip at the top of T in TRVST provides a secondary confirmation marker. The progression from crack to break tells the story of cumulative die fatigue: what began as a hairline fracture propagated under repeated striking pressure until the metal at the rim displaced enough to create a visible break with raised metal on the struck coin. Denver produced 6.81 million Peace dollars in 1923, a moderate mintage for the series. The 1923-D is generally available in circulated grades but becomes scarce in gem condition, and the addition of an R-6 die break variety adds a significant premium for VAM collectors. Anthony de Francisci's high-relief Liberty head obverse placed considerable stress on dies, contributing to the frequency of die cracks and breaks across the Peace dollar series.

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