Got a nice VAM

I think it's an 1882 CC VAM 2D, but not sure if it's the 2E. I've been looking for one of these for a while! Anyone think it could go 64?

 

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Nice. Won't make 64 though its on the cusp of 62+/63 but I think it'll get the 63 for being a gsa. And what's a VAM?

 

Not sure about VAM's but that huge hit to the ear that flattened it out and another bad hit to the upper lip might get this a "Details/Damaged" attribution. It might not be worth the expense to have it slabbed, but would still be okay in an album or keep in OGP.

 

The "hit" at the ear is flatness of strike, more common on New Orleans issues but not unknown from the other mints. Don't know about the one on the lip; I want to see it on my monitor at home before commenting.

The major differentiating factor between 2D and 2E is a fresh clash with letter transfer, making me think this one is 2D.

 

It looks like VAM 2D. Great VAM. 70/30 on MS63/62. The funny business on the lip you see is a die break at a counterclash. Flatness at ear is uncharacteristic of 82-CC. Thin spot on planchet, perhaps. It won't affect the grade much at the 62-63 level, if at all.

 

VAM= Van Allen-Mallis

the authors of the reference book on Morgan die varieties, die states, and die marriages.

 

You think maybe the obverse die got improperly basined, with a flat spot, while they were trying to save it? I'd think a pressure-related weak strike - or improper die spacing - would manifest on both faces, and the reverse certainly looks strongly-enough done. I gotta go see some more 2D's; if it was basining the earlier states of 2D should all look like that.

This is a really neat die progression, and would make a short set as fascinating as the 1921-S Thornheads, and more obtainable.

 

Not sure this coin would str8 grade...with the ear hit and questionable liquid, environ damage at 4 to 5 oclock...?? UNC details?

 

It is in a GSA holder, so it should unc, at least

 

Have a second read. That's not "damage" at the ear....

 

That's a FLAT MINT STRIKE on the ear, and not a hit. If you
go to a coin show, please check out a few GSA cc Dollars. It's very common, plus it is usually covered with full original
mint luster, just as this one is. I would guess it would grade
a 62 at tops.

 

What about the tobacco juice? I say UNC details. Nice coin though.

 

It'll straight grade

 

Now I'm thinking it's either a LDS 2D or EDS 2E

c

 

Thank you, always interested in learning something new. I have a modest collection of Morgan's but no CC's yet and have not checked any of them for VAM's. I do have to get to some shows though, it's been a long time.

 

Now some homework if you wish...Mitch has identified the characteristic. Now, notice the difference between the original mint luster on the cheek and field and the luster on the flatly struck portion.

1. How would you describe what you are seeing (flat strike luster) compared with the original luster to a blind coin collector?
2. Why is it not a hit?
3. What would a hit look like on an original surface?

 

This is what I like THE MOST about CT, all the education that is available at the stroke of a key. I should think one of the members such as @SuperDave (He cannot see this as I am ignored for challenging his opinions in an inappropriate manner ) would have answered this; however, it would be much better if other members who claim to be here to learn may take a try.

I NEED HELP TOO: The answers are in the Post#1 photo.

1. Is there any difference between normal luster and flat strike luster?
2. What would a hit look like on a frosty BU coin w/original luster?

 

My simple opinion...

1. I would say that the planchet surfaces that went through rollers have a bit of a different look than the struck areas. But both have luster. I'll let someone smarter explain.
2. A hit destroys flow lines and hence the luster. On an untoned silver coin the color will likely appear a bit darker.

 

I hope @tommyc03 takes a guess too.

 

But look at that die gouge though, and the five clash marks on the reverse