1934-D VAM-2

Description

Discovered by Leroy Van Allen in December 1965 — Van Allen being the co-creator of the VAM classification system itself, providing the "V" in VAM — the 1934-D Peace Dollar VAM-2 is designated "Medium D" for its defining characteristic: a normal B-type die with a medium-sized D mintmark. Classified as B2b with an R-3 rarity rating, indicating an estimated 200 to 500 confirmed specimens, and carrying an I-2 interest level. The medium D mintmark sits between the small and large D punch sizes used at the Denver Mint, and distinguishing VAM-2 from other 1934-D die pairings requires comparing the mintmark dimensions against reference images of the known punch sizes. The 1934-D Peace Dollar is a better date in the series with a mintage of only 1,569,500 pieces — modest production that elevates the base coin's desirability independent of any VAM attribution. Anthony de Francisci's design was struck in 90% silver at 26.73 grams on 38.1mm planchets. As a discovery by Van Allen himself during the formative period of the VAM cataloging system, this variety carries added historical significance within the attribution community.

External References