1926-S VAM-1I3

Description

The 1926-S VAM-1I3 Peace Dollar is designated "Die Chips Last Tiara Ray, Shortened Tiara Front Rays" and classified as 1I3 II1 - B2a with a rarity rating of I-2 R-6, placing the estimated surviving population at thirteen to thirty known specimens. On the obverse, late die states show that the dies were polished to remove die clash marks, resulting in shortened front rays near Liberty's hair, while lines are visible through the letter E. Die chips on the last tiara ray provide the primary diagnostic feature that gives this variety its name. On the reverse, classified as B2a, a different die displays a single polished die spike at the eagle's right shoulder, evidence of the Mint's attempts to extend die life by polishing away clash damage. The R-6 rarity level makes VAM-1I3 one of the scarcer Peace Dollar varieties, and the combination of die polishing artifacts, shortened rays, and tiara die chips tells a detailed story of progressive die deterioration and maintenance during the San Francisco Mint's 1926 production. Collectors should examine the tiara rays and hair detail carefully to identify the telltale shortening caused by die polishing.

External References