| Showing All VAMquest Auction lots (1 to 40) |
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Lot Name (Lot #)
Description |
Price Realized* |
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1878 7-TF Rev79 VAM 221 PCGS MS63 (Lot 15003)
Generally speaking, there are four different Reverse Types for silver dollars struck in 1878. Namely, there is the 8-TF Reverse, the so-called 7/8-TF Reverse, the 7-TF Reverse with flat breast “B” Reverse, and the 7-TF with raised, round breast “C” Reverse. This last Reverse Type, often called the “Reverse of ’79,” is the one offered here. And best of all, this is a PCGS high grade example with outstanding luster. |
$157.50 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 100 PCGS MS62 (Lot 14005)
This TOP 100 variety is particularly interesting because it is the only 7-TF variety with an 8-TF Type I obverse. For attribution purposes, the tops of the letters in E PLURIBUS UNUM on the obverse show clear doubling toward the rim. There are other diagnostics, as well, but this feature is considered the key identifier. As for the grade, if this specimen were broken out of its holder, it would undoubtedly be sold as an MS63 or MS64 at any coin show. The luster is super and the overall look is extremely high grade. And conservative grading by PCGS adds to its charm. |
$78.75 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 113 ANACS MS63 (Lot 8010)
For those who are attempting to put together a complete 7-TF Set, the VAM 113 often results in a dilemma. It is currently obtainable in VF up through AU circulated grades, but it is rarely available in strict BU grades. That’s why this specimen is so special! And MS63 is basically top-of-the-line. |
$129.38 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 122 ANACS AU55 (Lot OD018)
Think about it. When was the last time you saw another VAM 122? Certainly not in a great while! The 1878 7-TF Set contains many interesting varieties, but few are scarcer than the VAM 122, with its diagnostic doubling above the “R” of PLURIBUS. How rare is it? Coins that grade AU are rare, and BU specimens either do not exist or are so elusive as to be unknown. In twenty-five years, we don’t recall ever seeing a BU VAM 122 offered for sale. This lustrous specimen should fill an important slot in the collection of the lucky buyer.
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$151.88 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 131 ANACS MS62 (Lot 11006)
Van Allen cataloged the one known 1878 7-TF Proof die pair as the VAM 131, but there are a number of different VAM 131 sub-varieties, including the VAM 131, 131A, 131B and 131C. The beautiful specimen offered here is a VAM 131, with blazing luster that’s far above average for this variety. |
$39.38 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 142 ANACS MS63 (Lot 8013)
This 1878 7-TF variety has what is known as a B2-b Reverse, which simply means the “R” in TRUST is full, but the “O” in God is broken. VAMs 140 up to VAM 146 all have this reverse. The VAM 142 is interesting because the obverse is a nice doubled die. In any case, there is a run on MS63 7-TF varieties, since so many are unknown in the higher BU grades. This example is particularly desirable. |
$106.88 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 146 PCGS MS64 (Lot 8014)
The VAM 146, which also has a B2-b reverse, can easily be identified by the diagonal line running across “ER” in LIBERTY. Grade is important, and the VAM 146, like most 7-TF varieties, is seldom encountered in PCGS MS64 holders. (Greysheet is around $200 for any unslabbed 7-TF in MS64.) This specimen has very few marks and outstanding luster, which combine to make this an exciting VAMquest offering. |
$185.63 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 169 PCGS MS62 (Lot 15002)
The VAM 169 has everything going for it, starting with quadrupled stars on the obverse. Such a variety feature is quite unusual in the Morgan dollar series. Furthermore, the VAM 169 is a true rarity in BU. Indeed, it’s quite scarce in grades up through AU and it becomes almost impossible to find in true Mint State. This HOT 50 specimen shows bright luster and is exceedingly attractive. |
$619.88 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 171 PCGS MS62 (Lot 14006)
The 1878 7-TF VAM 171 is one of the superstars of the TOP 100 set. It was considered quite rare when the original TOP 100 book was written and it has remained a rarity in the 7-TF set. But there’s more to the VAM 171 than just its rarity. The obverse die is tripled, with the three distinct notches on the lower left serif of “R” in PLURIBUS. In fact, much of Liberty’s head-dress shows strong doubling. And guess how many specimens have been graded by PCGS in MS63 or better? The answer is a total of only three! This lustrous coin is condition census and would be one of the centerpieces of any 7-TF set. |
$704.25 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 185A ANACS MS61 (Lot 14007)
In anticipation of the release of the 7-TF Attribution Guide, it seems that every 7-TF specimen that enters the marketplace is being gobbled up. This heavy demand is particularly evident in Mint State grades. The VAM 185 offered here is a VAM 185A, which is one of the known sub-varieties. Called the “Spike Above Eyelid” variety, this specimen is a no-question Unc, which is quite attractive and is conservatively graded. |
$91.13 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 20 PCGS MS62 (Lot 8006)
PCGS was brutal when they graded this gorgeous specimen. In our opinion, if this were a raw coin at your local coin show, you’d expect to pay MS64 money for it! Anyway, we consider the VAM 20 variety the “sleeper” of the A2/Ax portion of the 8-TF set, and it’s highly desirable from a collecting standpoint. Want the best MS62 VAM 20 money can buy? This frosty PCGS specimen may be it! |
$365.63 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 39 ANACS MS63 (Lot 8007)
The VAM 39 may be the most under-rated of the known 7/8-TF (strong) varieties. In fact, a coin such as this would be an “upgrade” for just about every VAM collection. This variety is seldom encountered, and when found, often has problems or is heavily bagmarked. That’s why the specimen offered here is such a breath of fresh air. As for the variety, the VAM 39 exhibits five extra bold TF tips on the reverse, and is a “Strong” 7/8-TF variety in the parlance of PCGS. This VAM 39 is also heavily clashed, so Van Allen would call it a VAM 39A. Overall, this wonderful example is everything a collector could want in an MS63. |
$343.13 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 42 NGC MS63 (Lot 15001)
Only two so-called 7/8-TF varieties show all seven of the underlying tail-feather tips on the eagle, the VAM 41 and this variety, the VAM 42. The VAM 41 was included in the TOP 100 listings, and the VAM 42 is an important part of the HOT 50. What’s exciting here is the fact that this coin is in a premium MS63 holder. Most collectors don’t realize that true MS64 examples are rarely available and prohibitively expensive, so NGC MS63 is near top-of-the-line and super desirable. |
$348.75 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 42(A) NGC MS63 (Lot 9009)
It’s hard to resist a 7/8-TF variety with a full row of extra TF tips under the eagle’s tail-feathers on the reverse. That’s why PCGS puts “Strong” on its labels to identify varieties like this. And the NGC label for this coin says “VAM 42 7/7 TF” meaning there are 7 extra TF tips visible below the eagle’s TFs, which is the maximum number possible. And for you die state fanatics, it’s also worth mentioning that there are amazing die cracks that run around the periphery on the reverse that are simply incredible. What about grade? This PQ coin, with its nice detail lustrous surfaces, fits nicely at the top end of the MS63 grade. |
$225.00 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 42(A) PCI MS62 (Lot 12012)
This no-question Brilliant Uncirculated example of the VAM 42 was graded MS62 because of contact marks on the obverse. But it’s otherwise a respectable specimen of this popular 7/8-TF variety. The VAM 42 shows a whole second row of extra TF tips and is therefore included in the PCGS “Strong 7/8TF” category. This example shows a strong clash on the obverse (don’t they all!), and is currently attributed as a VAM 42A. Priced to sell. |
$146.25 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 45 ANACS MS63 DMPL (Lot 10013)
The VAM 45 is one of the few “sleepers” left In the sixteen-coin major variety set of 7/8-TF VAMs. It doesn’t show any extra tail-feathers, and it is one of the few B/A Reverse varieties that remain neglected. But there’s no doubt that it’s ultra-rare! In fact, we haven’t encountered an unattributed VAM 45 is more than two years. Furthermore, we don’t recall seeing another MS63 DMPL specimen of the VAM 45 offered for sale in a couple of decades! |
$506.25 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-10 SEGS MS64 (Lot 8003)
Each year, the VAM 14-10 seems to generate more and more respect, and the latest publication from Van Allen now lists it as an R-6! In this auction, we offer a third specimen from the SEGS traveling set of 8-TFs from the early days of the specialty. I did the attribution only, but the grade looks about MS63. In any case, the luster is great for a VAM 14-10, the detail is needle-sharp, and the reverse would easily make MS65. So overall, this attractive “A-list” variety would be quite an acquisition for any collector. |
$466.88 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-16 NGC AU55 PL (Lot 8004)
Here is a legendary variety that should get the heart fluttering in legions of VAM collectors. It’s a relatively high grade 8-TF VAM 14-16 in an NGC holder. How good is the grade? How about AU55 Proof-Like! Spectacular doubling on Liberty’s profile makes the VAM 14.16 particularly desirable. Here, deep mirrors are visible on both sides of the coin, and there is only the barest wear in the obverse fields. It was difficult for the owner to part with this one, but such a VAM 14.16 as this should find a home in one of the top VAM collections. |
$1,361.25 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-5 SEGS AU50 (Lot 8001)
The VAM 14-5 is considered one of the ultra-rarities in the 8-TF set, and the finest known specimens only grade AU. (There is an ANACS MS60, but if it’s the one I saw years ago, it’s only AU58!) In any case, the VAM 14.5 offered here was part of the SEGS traveling 8-TF display in the late 1990’s. I did the attributions, and SEGS did all the grading for their Signature Holders. As for this VAM 14-5 example, there’s significant contact on the surfaces, so in my view it wouldn’t make AU today. But the coin is nevertheless an important rarity with an unbelievably low Minimum Bid in this auction. In fact, it would be dirt cheap at twice the price! |
$534.38 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-9 SEGS AU50 (cleaned) (Lot 8002)
As one of the superstars of the 8-TF variety set, the VAM 14-9 is ultra-rare in all grades, and is missing from all but the top VAM sets. Here, it’s in a SEGS Signature Holder, where I did the attribution, but not the grading. Actually, this VAM 14-9 is a reasonably good place-holder for this major rarity, until you encounter (if ever!) a pristine PCGS specimen. The surfaces are reflective, and there’s lots of detail. |
$590.63 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 15 ANACS MS63 PL (Lot 10002)
There are MS63’s, and then there are MS63’s! This example of the rare 8TF VAM 15 has amazing eye appeal. The central devices on both obverse and reverse are ultra frosty, and the mirrors would have been a shoe-in for DMPL a couple of years ago. Yes, this cataloger is impressed with the specimen offered here, but it’s the price that will please you. |
$562.50 |
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1878 8TF VAM 14-3 NGC MS64 DPL (Lot 14003)
As a variety, the 8TF VAM 14-3 is particularly interesting, as its pedigree goes all the way back to the first 8TF Proof dies. Records show that during the first week of Morgan dollar production, one hundred Proofs were produced, and research has shown these to be VAM 14-3. Then, the same dies were employed to strike silver dollars for circulation purposes. The specimen offered here is one of the circulation strikes struck from Proof dies. This historically significant piece is in an NGC MS64 Deep Mirror Proof-Like holder, which represents an amazing grade for any 8TF Morgan, but is especially important here. Would you believe the Greysheet lists standard 8TFs in MS64 DMPL at $4,160! |
$2,925.00 |
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1878 8TF VAM 22 NGC MS64 (Lot 14004)
This 8TF VAM 22 specimen is essentially top-of-the-line. Another example in an NGC MS64 holder was recently described on EBay as the finest known and offered for well over $1000! In any case, the VAM 22 in MS64 is an important HOT 50 listing. The key diagnostic here is the unique over-polishing of “LIB” in LIBERTY. So, for collectors interested in upgrading their HOT 50 sets, here is an attractive, under-priced VAM 22. |
$495.00 |
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1878 8TF VAM 7 NGC MS64 (Lot 14001)
The 8TF VAM 7 is an enigma. In grades up through MS62 it is a common variety, but the population in MS63 rapidly thins out, and in MS64 it is a very scarce variety. In fact, this NGC MS64 specimen may be Condition Census, since there are fewer than 10 MS65 specimens known to us! The attractive example offered here is particularly notable for its super frostiness, which accentuates its snow-white surfaces. Indeed, for connoisseurs of 8TF varieties, this is about as good as it gets! |
$393.75 |
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1878 8TF VAM 9 ANACS AU53 (Lot 14002)
Few Morgan dollar varieties have the mystique of the 8-TF VAM 9. Why? We can be certain that this die pair was the first to strike Morgan dollars on the first day of production, March 11, 1878. Who knows? The coin offered here may have been among the first struck, since it shows no evidence of clashing and originally had DMPL surfaces. (Research has shown there is a complete die progression with 0, 1 and 2 obverse/reverse clashes.) Here, under a 16x loupe, you can see plenty of contact marks on the surfaces. But even so, this is an extremely attractive specimen with a hint of peripheral golden brown toning that adds to its eye appeal. Did we mention it still displays excellent luster and semi PL surfaces. |
$731.25 |
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1878-CC VAM 13 ANACS AU55 (Lot 16010)
The Wild West mystique of the Carson City Mint has spilled over into the collecting of “CC” dollars. In fact, there is an entire segment of the hobby devoted to “CC” dollars in GSA holders. Now, with all the research that’s going on, 1878-CC varieties are starting to take their place in VAM collecting. The VAM 13 offered here is particularly interesting, as it has a doubled die obverse similar to VAMs 6 and 18, with doubling on the date and Liberty’s ear, but no doubling on the leaves and other features of the bonnet. In any case, there’s only light wear on the high points of this example, and it’s extremely choice in every respect. |
$140.63 |
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1878-CC VAM 6 ANACS AU53 (Lot 2025)
1878 was the first year the Carson City Mint struck Morgan dollars and it produced some truly exciting die varieties. Three dies, in particular, have taken the VAM world by storm, the VAM 6, the VAM 18 and the VAM 24. All three have obverses that are spectacular doubled dies. The VAM 6 has the added plus that the two letters in the “CC” mintmark are so widely spaced that the right “C” actually touches the bottom of the right wreath. This is important for two reasons. First, it’s great for attribution purposes. And secondly, this is one of only two such instances in the Morgan dollar series. While the surfaces of this AU show significant light contact, the overall appeal of the coin is excellent, with lustrous surfaces and sharp detail. And in terms of rarity, this is the first VAM 6 we’ve encountered in quite a while. |
$157.50 |
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1878-CC VAM 6 ANACS MS61 PL (Lot 16008)
There are a number of important 1878-CC die varieties, and all are intensely sought-after by VAM collectors. Near the top of the list is the VAM 6, with its strongly doubled leaves in Liberty’s head-dress, its doubled ear, and the major shift in the date. It shares this same obverse with the VAM 18, but has a unique mintmark where the right “C” touches the wreath. Here, the original golden toning around the periphery and the frosty surfaces result in a coin with extremely strong eye appeal. A super specimen for the grade! |
$596.25 |
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1878-CC VAM 8 NGC MS62 PL (Lot OD072)
1878 was, of course, the first year of silver dollar production at the Carson City Branch Mint, and generally speaking, the quality of the struck coins was quite high. And so it is with this gorgeous specimen. In terms of attribution, the widely spaced “CC” mintmark makes this a VAM 8. Proof-Like fields add to the allure here, along with a well-defined strike and white, attractive devices. Rare and desirable. |
$241.88 |
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1878-CC VAM 9 PCGS MS63 (Lot 12020)
To think this silver dollar was struck in the Wild West, and now its condition is the same as when it was first struck. The coin’s surfaces are pristine and a hint of attractive golden-brown toning around the peripheries is all that’s been added. Actually, many experts would buy and sell this coin as a solid MS64, but conservative grading here only increases its desirability. No doubt, the buyer of this piece will be delighted. |
$292.50 |
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1878-P 7-TF Rev79 VAM 220 ANACS MS60 (Lot 2023)
The so-called “Reverse of ‘79” 7-TF variety, which is sometimes referred to as the “Round Breast” variety, is appreciably rarer than its predecessor, the standard “Reverse of ‘78” or “Flat Breast” variety. And many of the varieties from VAM 200 to 232 are quite desirable. However, None can top the VAM 220! For those who like doubled features, this obverse is a dramatic tripled die! And look no further than the right sides of the cotton bolls and leaves in Liberty’s head-dress, and you’ll see incredibly strong doubling. No wonder it’s a key listing in the TOP 100 book. Then, there is rarity of consider. The VAM 220 is sought-after in every grade, but in strict BU condition, it is without equal. Only five Uncirculated specimens are known to this cataloger, which puts it into a class by itself. How good is the specimen offered here? It’s a breathtaking no-question Unc. that would instantly become one of the highlights of any VAM collection! |
$883.13 |
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1878-P 7-TF Rev79 VAM 221 (Chip) PCGS MS63 (Lot 8016)
The reverse design for the Morgan dollar was changed midway through 1878 to what we now call the “Round Breast” motif. This new reverse was then used for most of the rest of the Morgan dollar series, beginning in 1879. Here is a PQ example that is particularly interesting because of its large die chip on the leading edge of Liberty’s forehead. In terms of grade, this lustrous specimen is an outstanding example, which is as good as you’d expect in a premium PCGS holder. |
$174.38 |
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1878-P 7-TF Rev79 VAM 221 PCGS MS63 (Lot 5008)
A new reverse Hub for the Morgan dollar was introduced in mid-year 1878 with a round, convex eagle’s breast. There were some other minor changes as well, but the so-called Reverse of 1879 was created. To the delight of collectors today, we are just now sorting out all the “Rev79” varieties. One of these is the VAM 221 sub-variety with a die chip on the leading edge of Liberty’s forehead. Finding one in a PCGS MS63 holder is epitome of success. |
$112.50 |
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1878-P 7-TF Reverse '79 VAM 201 ANACS MS63 (Lot 6017)
Many specialists consider the VAM 201 an under-appreciated Reverse of ’79 variety, especially in MS63 or better condition. The fact is that it’s not often encountered in Choice BU. With its raised die fill inside the bottom loop of each “8” in the date, this VAM 201 specimen has good luster and nice surfaces. And when tilted in the light, it displays reflective surfaces, which is unusual for any “Round Breast” variety. |
$258.75 |
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1878-P 7-TF Reverse '79 VAM 203 PCGS MS63 (Lot 6018)
The short wheat leaf at the front of Liberty’s headband is the hallmark of this 7-TF Reverse of ‘79 variety. It is one of only three Rev79 VAMs that made it into the TOP 100 listings, and as such, is sought after by legions of collectors. Hence, the prices realized for this variety often reflect heavy premiums. This specimen is PCGS Registry “ready” and it’s in an old PCGS holder, which sometimes is a major plus. In fact, most collectors today would call this a gorgeous MS64! |
$230.63 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 100 PCGS MS62 (Lot 7009)
The 1878 VAM 100 is a unique variety, as it’s the only 7TF to have a “Type I” Obverse with an evenly divided ear on Liberty and an incuse “M” designer’s initial. The fact that both diagnostics are usually found only on 8TF varieties warranted its inclusion in the TOP 100. In terms of desirability, the Mint State specimn offered here is exceedingly attractive and is at the top end of the grade. |
$101.25 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 110 ANACS MS63 (Lot 6013)
The broken serifs on “N and M” in UNUM set this interesting variety apart from all the other VAMs with B2-a reverses. And even as the more common sibling of VAMs 145 and 162, the VAM 110 is quite collectible. The best news of all is that this specimen is a lovely PQ example with nice luster and an MS65+ reverse. And how can you beat the price! |
$74.32 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 110 PCGS MS63 (Lot 7010)
The idea here was to entice you with a price that’s so low that you couldn’t help but bid on this coin. The PCGS slab cost upwards of $25, so how about adding on $25 for a coin which is a no-question MS63+ and has a Greysheet value of $79Bid/$85Ask? So, according to our calculations, the sheet value of a non-variety, plus the slab, makes this a no-brainer at $100. But our Minimum Reserve is $50. |
$90.00 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 114A NGC MS62 (Lot 3014)
The VAM 114A, which represents the late die state of the VAM 114, is notable for its heavily clashed obverse and reverse and its over-polishing. It makes for an interesting variety. The variety’s one drawback is the fact that it’s one of the most commonly encountered 7-TF varieties! That said, this particular specimen has excellent eye appeal for an MS62 specimen. Golden orange toning at the periphery on both sides highlights the satiny luster at the centers. If all MS62 specimens looked like this, I’d have to recommend this grade for wide-spread hoarding! |
$61.88 |
| 1-40 | 41-80 | 81-120 | 121-160 | 161-200 | 201-240 | 241-280 | 281-320 | 321-360 | 361-400 | 401-440 | 441-480 | 481-520 | 521-560 | 561-562 | |
*Price includes the buyers premium.
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