1926-S VAM-1D

Description

Originally cataloged as VAM-1D for the 1926-S Peace dollar, this variety was subsequently eliminated from the active VAM census and reclassified as VAM-2C — a common occurrence in the evolving Van Allen-Mallis cataloging system as researchers refine their understanding of die relationships. The discovery by David Close documented die file lines on the obverse and a polished reverse, features that initially warranted a separate VAM designation but were later determined to belong within the VAM-2 die family as a sub-variant. San Francisco struck approximately 6.98 million Peace dollars in 1926, a below-average mintage that places the date in the moderately scarce tier of the series. The elimination status is important for collectors and dealers to understand: coins previously attributed as VAM-1D should now be re-attributed to VAM-2C, and any references to VAM-1D in older price guides, auction descriptions, or holder labels reflect the superseded designation. Die file lines on the obverse indicate the working die surface was dressed with a file during maintenance to remove clash marks or other imperfections, leaving parallel striations that transfer as incuse lines on the struck coin. The polished reverse similarly reflects die maintenance activity, where the reverse working die was polished to remove accumulated marks or to restore surface quality. Anthony de Francisci's Liberty portrait on the obverse and the eagle perched on the mountain on the reverse both show the effects of these die preparation procedures.

External References