1923-S VAM-1AK1

Description

Discovered by David Close, the 1923-S VAM-1AK1 Peace Dollar documents a die break between the right rays — the second such break cataloged in this position, distinguishing it from similar breaks on other 1923-S die pairings. Classified as 1AK1 II 1 B2a with an impact rating of I-2 and a rarity of R-6 (estimated 13-30 known), this variety carries significant scarcity for Peace Dollar collectors pursuing die state progressions. The obverse displays a Type II die with a die crack through the rays below ER in LIBERTY, along with a small oblong break between the tops of two rear rays — notably smaller than the comparable break on VAM-1B, providing a key diagnostic distinction between the two varieties. Anthony de Francisci's Peace Dollar design, introduced in 1921 to commemorate the end of World War I, features Liberty wearing a radiate crown with sharp, elevated rays that concentrate striking force and accelerate die failure at their tips. The San Francisco Mint struck over 19 million Peace Dollars in 1923, and the high-relief rays created stress points where cracks naturally propagated during extended press runs. The R-6 rarity rating places VAM-1AK1 at the scarcer end of the Peace Dollar variety spectrum, where documented populations are small enough that new discoveries still meaningfully impact census counts. Die break varieties on Peace Dollars are particularly prized because the rays provide dramatic, easily visible locations for crack formation.

External References