1927-S VAM-1C1

Description

Discovered in 2015 by David Close, the 1927-S VAM-1C1 "Die File Lines Obverse" Peace dollar documents extensive die preparation marks across the obverse of Anthony de Francisci's design. Cataloged as 1C1 (revised) III 2 32 · (Die File Lines Obverse) with die classification I-2 and rarity rating R-5 (approximately 30-75 known), this variety is distinguished by die file lines covering virtually the entire obverse field. The reverse carries a B2a classification with a micro 1 S mintmark tilted slightly to the left — a secondary diagnostic that supplements the primary obverse attribution. San Francisco produced approximately 866,000 Peace dollars in 1927, the lowest S-mint output in the series and a date that commands substantial premiums in all grades. The comprehensive coverage of die file lines across the obverse fields suggests aggressive die maintenance — perhaps to remove widespread rust pitting that developed during storage between production runs, or to smooth surface irregularities following a die clashing event. The revised 1C1 designation indicates this variety's catalog placement was adjusted after initial documentation, reflecting the evolving nature of VAM classification as new information emerges. The micro 1 S mintmark on the reverse, tilted slightly left of vertical, provides a valuable second checkpoint for confirming the die marriage, as mintmark size and orientation are highly die-specific characteristics. David Close has contributed numerous Peace dollar variety discoveries, particularly within the sub-variety sequences of common die marriages, and his work has significantly deepened the catalog for later Peace dollar dates. Given the 1927-S date's key-date status and low mintage, any documented variety carries heightened significance for collectors who seek both date completeness and variety attribution.

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