1923-D VAM-1AR

Description

Discovered by David Close, this 1923-D Peace Dollar VAM-1AR features a dramatic die break at the right side of Y in LIBERTY. Rated R-6 with only 13 to 30 specimens known, it ranks among the rarest die-state varieties in the Peace Dollar series. The break extends from the rim at the top right of Y, with a die crack continuing through the junction and traveling left into the field near T, where it turns at a right angle back toward the rim. Displaced metal near the T forms a retained cud — a section of the die that fractured but remained partially attached, leaving a raised, featureless area on struck coins. The I-2 interest level reflects strong collector demand for visible die breaks on this Denver Mint issue. Anthony de Francisci's Liberty head design, with its radiant crown and flowing hair, provides a detailed canvas where die deterioration shows clearly. The 1923-D saw substantial production at the Denver Mint, yet advanced die states like this one survived in very small numbers, making VAM-1AR a prized discovery for Peace Dollar specialists who track die progression.

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