1923-P VAM-1AW
Error
Description
Discovered by Dave Welker in November 2006, the 1923 Peace Dollar VAM-1AW is identified by fine raised dots from die rust pitting between the rays at the left of B and around the E in LIBERTY on the obverse (die II 1), paired with reverse die B2a. With an I-2 interest level and R-5 rarity rating, this variety documents die deterioration from moisture exposure, where rust pits on the die surface transfer as small raised bumps on struck coins. Die rust pitting typically occurs when a die is stored in humid conditions between uses, and the pattern of affected areas — concentrated between the rays and around specific letters — helps map where moisture settled on the die face. Anthony de Francisci's Peace Dollar obverse features radiating sunbeams behind Liberty's head, and the spaces between these rays provide recessed areas on the die where moisture can accumulate, explaining why rust pitting frequently appears in these locations across multiple Peace Dollar VAM varieties.
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