1925-P VAM-1A

Description

Discovered by Jeff Oxman in April 1999, this 1925 Philadelphia Mint Peace Dollar VAM-1A is cataloged as II 1, B2a (Die Gouge in Rays), with a rarity designation of I-3 R-4. The R-4 level indicates an estimated 31-100 known examples. The primary diagnostic is a horizontal die gouge in the rays well below the B of LIBERTY on the obverse — a positional marker straightforward to locate under magnification. LVA Plate Coin status confirms this is the example illustrated in the reference plates. Anthony de Francisci's Peace Dollar design features Liberty's radiant crown with sunburst rays extending outward, and the area below LIBERTY contains sufficient open field that die gouges in this zone are clearly visible against the smooth background. Peace Dollars were struck in 90% silver at Philadelphia during 1925, and the series is distinguished by its TRVST reverse spelling. Oxman's April 1999 discovery added a readily attributable obverse die gouge variety to the 1925-P catalog. The I-3 interest level reflects moderate collector engagement, and the R-4 rarity ensures enough examples circulate to make the variety obtainable while remaining scarce enough to reward searching.

External References