1935-S VAM-3B

Description

Discovered by Ray Castro, known in the numismatic community as Hobocarver, in 2013, the 1935-S VAM-3B carries special significance as a variety from the final year of Peace Dollar production. Designated 3B III1 with reverse die Ca (Die Gouge R), rated I-2 for interest and R-5 for rarity (an estimated 1,001 to 3,000 surviving), this variety's diagnostics include a vertical die gouge to the right of R and a vertical die scratch to the right of B in LIBERTY. Die gouges and scratches are incuse marks on the die surface — gouges being deeper and wider than scratches — that transfer as raised features on struck coins. The dual markings near R and B provide two attribution points in close proximity. The 1935-S Peace Dollar holds terminal-date status: although 1964-D Peace Dollars were reportedly struck, they were never released, making 1935 the effective end of de Francisci's series. San Francisco produced the final Peace Dollars alongside Philadelphia, closing out a fourteen-year run that began with the high-relief 1921 issue. Struck in 90% silver at 38.1mm with the S mintmark on the reverse. Examine the area to the right of R and B in LIBERTY for the vertical gouge and scratch.

External References