1923-P VAM-1AC1

Description

Discovered in 2010 by BJV (a prolific contributor to Peace dollar VAM research), the 1923-P VAM-1AC1 "X Die Scratches Below Talons" documents two die scratches forming an X shape below the eagle's right foot between the talons on the reverse of Anthony de Francisci's Peace dollar design. Cataloged as 1AC1 II1 · B2a (X Die Scratches Below Talons) with die classification I-2 and rarity rating R-6 (estimated 13-30 known), this variety occupies the rare end of the VAM rarity spectrum where confirmed specimens require sustained searching and favorable timing. Philadelphia struck approximately 30.8 million Peace dollars in 1923, the highest mintage in the entire series, yet the R-6 rarity for VAM-1AC1 indicates this particular die saw extremely limited production or that the intersecting scratches are subtle enough to escape detection on most surviving examples. The X-shaped formation of the two die scratches provides a geometrically distinctive diagnostic — two linear features crossing at an angle create an intersection point that is unlikely to be replicated by random contact marks or handling damage, making confident attribution more straightforward than for single-line scratches that could be confused with post-strike damage. The Reverse B2a classification with Obverse II1 indicates a standard die pairing where the diagnostic interest lies entirely on the reverse, specifically in the area between the eagle's talons at the right foot. The AC1 suffix — extending into triple-character territory within the VAM-1 sub-variety sequence — demonstrates the extraordinary depth of die pair documentation for this highest-mintage date. Collectors should examine the area beneath the eagle's right talons under at least 15x magnification, using angled illumination to reveal the shallow incuse X pattern against the surrounding field and feather detail.

External References