1923-S VAM-1AU

Description

Cataloged as 1AU II1 - B2a with ratings of I-2 R-6, this 1923-S Peace Dollar carries the designation "Die File Lines and Pitted Die IB." The obverse displays heavy die file lines running in different directions across the fields — deliberate abrasive marks applied by a mint worker in an attempt to remove die cracks and clash marks, restoring the die to serviceable condition rather than retiring it from production. Between the I and B of LIBERTY, raised dots and splotches appear from die rust and wear, indicating this die also suffered surface corrosion that pitted the steel in that area. The combination of filing evidence and rust pitting tells a story of a die pushed well beyond its optimal service life: first developing cracks and clash marks that prompted resurfacing, then continuing in service until rust further degraded its working surface. San Francisco Mint production of 1923 Peace Dollars totaled approximately 19 million pieces. Die class II1 indicates a normal obverse in first subclass, paired with reverse B2a. At R-6 rarity — estimated 12 to 30 specimens known — this variety preserves physical evidence of die maintenance practices employed at the San Francisco Mint during the 1920s silver dollar production era.

External References