| Winning Lots from Auction #3 |
| Lot Image |
Lot Name (Lot #)
Description |
Price Realized* |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 3 ANACS MS64 PL (Lot 3001)
Trying to get “Proof-Like” designations for coins these days can be an exercise in futility. That’s why I tell collectors to buy coins in holders that already say “PL.” And MS64 is a prime grade for such a strategy. Why? Since “PL” listings are not included in the weekly Greysheet, Proof-Like premiums tend to be severely depressed. That’s the opportunity here! This Proof-Like VAM 3 is such an early die state that you can clearly see the spike in Liberty’s eye, as well as other obscure details. One mark in the obverse field may be all that keeps it from a higher grade. A white cheek and super reflective fields make this a standout coin. |
$331.88 |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 6 NGC MS64 (Lot 3002)
Semi Proof-like on both obverse and reverse, this attractive NGC MS64 specimen shows contact marks here and there consistent with the grade. Of course, MS64 is nothing to sneeze at, especially when talking about 8-TF specimens! The VAM 6 is unique in that there are three different reed counts known for this variety, but since most of the better VAM 6’s have already been slabbed, there’s no way to go back and count the reeding. In any case, the overall eye appeal of this MS64 coin warrants consideration. |
$298.13 |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 12 ANACS MS63 (Lot 3004)
There are always some surprises in the VAMquest Auctions, and the most bid upon Lot in Auction #1 was the 8-TF VAM 12, where it received 42 bids. Now, that’s popular! No longer considered one of the “common” 8-TF, the VAM 12 has come into its own. In terms of this specimen, Liberty’s cheek does show significant contact marks. The reverse would grade MS65. The tops of all the letters on the obverse are connected by obvious die cracks, making this an interesting late die state. ANACS MS63. |
$106.88 |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 14-1 PCGS MS61 (Lot 3005)
Less than a million 8-TF coins were struck in 1878 and this initial design has always been highly prized by collectors, even before the advent of variety collecting. The PCGS example offered here is exceptional for the grade, and for those who are interested in obtaining an uncirculated 8-TF example that everyone would agree is a no-question BU, then this PCGS specimen is for you! And note the more desirable old PCGS holder. |
$106.88 |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 17 PGCS MS62 (Lot 3006)
There’s a reason why collectors like coins in PCGS holders. Take this specimen, for example. Is it an MS62? Yes. But in somebody else’s holder, or as a raw coin in a dealer’s case, this coin is most likely would be an MS63. Sure, there’s contact on Liberty’s cheek, but the rest of the coin showcases its considerable luster and attractive “look.” Enough said, it’s “cheap” at anything near this Minimum Reserve. (If you don’t believe me, check the ads in any Coin World or Numismatic News weekly!) |
$118.13 |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 18 NGC MS63 (Lot 3007)
VAM 18 is an interesting variety. Specifically, the obverse is an amazing doubled die, with the date and left stars showing huge shifts. This obverse is also shared with VAMs 19 & 20. In terms of die progressions, it’s the VAM 18 that was the middle variety to be struck. This attractive specimen is a lot of coin for the money, and most collectors would describe it as a delightful PQ example. |
$129.38 |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 19 ANACS MS63 PL (Lot 3008)
As we’ve commented so many times, coins in holders that already say “PL” or “DMPL” may be the best approach, since these designations are so difficult to come by now. And “PL” on the label may be the best opportunity of all, since they’re not listed weekly in the GreySheet. This gorgeous specimen is exactly what I’m talking about. It’s got medium to deep mirrors, frosty devices and nice contrast. And as a collector, I love specimens like this! |
$236.25 |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 21 NGC MS64 PL (Lot 3009)
This coin was purchased at auction at a price far in excess of its Sheet value. Why? It has everything a collector would want in an MS64. And in addition, it has Proof-like surfaces, which at the risk of beating a dead horse, the PL designation on the holder is currently worth its weight in gold! This high end NGC specimen is attractive with lots of luster. |
$365.63 |
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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 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 142 PCGS MS63 (Lot 3015)
7-TF specimens in PCGS holders are the epitome of a winning combination. That’s why there are so many examples of outrageously high prices paid for such examples. Here, the coin is white, except for an area of splotchy orange toning at K-10 on the obverse. It’s a bit ugly! But the reverse is better. Greysheet bid for a raw MS63 7-TF is $79. Good results might be realized by busting this one out and taking off the toning. |
$78.75 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 160 ANACS AU50 (Lot 3016)
The 7-TF VAM 160 has what is known as the B2-c Reverse, which refers to the “broken arm of the “r” in TRUST on the reverse. What’s interesting is that so many of the very rare 7-TF varieties have this reverse. The VAM 160 is one of these scarce varieties. Less than fifteen BU specimens are known, so the top-of-the-line for all intents and purposes is AU. This slabbed specimen is highly desirable, and if you don’t already have one, would make a solid example of a rarely encountered VAM. |
$84.38 |
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1879-S Rev78 VAM 9 NGC MS62 (Lot 3019)
As a variety-type, the 79-S Rev78, although listed in the GreySheet, is quite under-appreciated. This grouping of coins has only 16 varieties, and it makes a wonderful VAM set. Most are easily obtainable varieties, but there are also a number of ultra-rarities. At this time, only two complete sets are known. This VAM 9 specimen is one of the more common varieties, but it should be remembered that every Morgan dollar collector, whether a VAM specialist or not, needs one of these varieties to complete his Morgan dollar set. So the demand is extremely high for all 79-S Rev78 specimens. |
$163.13 |
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1880-O VAM 6A ANACS MS61 (Lot 3020)
It was once said of New Orleans silver dollar production in 1880 that all the coins must have come out the Mint in AU condition. Circulated specimens abound, but the population thins out rapidly in BU grades, culminating in a price tag of $17,850 for MS65! And that’s not even taking the variety into account. The VAM 6A has an overdate obverse and a die gouge in the left wreath on the reverse. As for the grade, this coin is way too good to be in an MS61 holder. An under-graded ANACS coin? Absolutely! And at an arm’s length, it’s a dead ringer for an MS63! |
$140.63 |
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1880-O VAM 6B NGC AU58 (Lot 3021)
This TOP 100 coin, which is a major rarity in Choice AU or above, is on the Hit List of almost every VAM collector. The obverse has the VAM 6, 6A, 6B, 6C overdate with the diagnostic arc at the top left outside of the second “8” in the date. In addition, the VAM 6B has the popular “Hangnail” reverse with a die gouge under the left tail-feathers. Either side makes for an interesting variety. This VAM with both makes for a major rarity. Full luster, white satiny surfaces and sharp detail for an 80-O result in a coin that would be an Unc to all but the most discerning collector. There aren’t many better than this one. An AU55 sold last year for $550. |
$771.75 |
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1880-S “0/9” VAM 11 ANACS MS65 DMPL (Lot 3024)
Taking into account the extreme “Wow Factor” associated with a coin like this, we’ll try to calm our heart rate long enough to describe this incredible example of the VAM 11. First of all, there are five known 1880-S varieties, VAMs 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12, but only one of which displays evidence of the underlying “9” inside the “0” of the date. Yet, it’s the grade that counts here. Any MS65 Morgan dollar with deep mirror proof-like surfaces is something to shout about. But on one of the overdates, it’s particularly special. And a word about the DMPL surfaces. Here, they’re so deep they’re almost black! And the extreme contrast between the field and the device makes Liberty look like she’s been molded out of white paper mache. Enough said? A coin like this most likely won’t come our way again. |
$590.63 |
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1881-O VAM 17 ANACS MS63 (Lot 3025)
This is the first VAM 17 I’ve seen offered at auction. What makes this variety interesting is that it is a seldom seen, so-called “Dash Variety,” referring to the small horizontal line under the second “8” in the date. Such marks were added to the die by the engravers in order to line up the date correctly on the die face. The idea, of course, was to then remove the “dash” from the die. But in a few cases, the mark remained, and the result was today’s “Dash Variety.” This VAM 17 specimen is particularly well struck, is highly lustrous with smooth surfaces, and deserves a Premium Quality designation. |
$73.13 |
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1881-S VAM 11 PCGS MS64 (Lot 3026)
Here’s an unattributed 1881-S Morgan dollar in an old PCGS Holder that’s in the auction only because it is so attractive. The luster is jewel-like, the surfaces are barely marked, and the coin itself is semi Proof-like on both sides. These are precisely the type of MS64s that we consider worthwhile to put away for a rainy day. Every grade represents a range of sub-grades. This bankable coin is at the absolute pinnacle of its grade! Much better than the photo would indicate. |
$57.38 |
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1882-O/S VAM 3 EDS NGC AU53 (Lot 3027)
Originally, it was thought that there were six “O/S” varieties dated 1882. But then it was determined that three of these were actually the early die states of the other three! This permanently altered the line-up for this fascinating variety. All three early die state varieties turned out to be much rarer than their late die state counterparts. The VAM 3 EDS, for instance, is probably twenty times rarer than its late die state. Not only is it rare, it is highly sought after. And we guarantee the attribution. |
$134.99 |
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1884-O/O VAM 7 ANACS MS65 (Lot 3029)
There’s a lot going on when a specialist looks at a VAM 7. First of all, the repunched mintmark shows an underlying “O’ as a diagonal inside the opening of the primary “O” mintmark. Then, the reverse is also a doubled die, with doubling on the right wreath and “STATES OF AMERICA.” And what is incredible here is the quality of this specimen. A smooth, satiny cheek and almost mark-free surfaces result in a top example of this O/O variety. |
$123.75 |
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1884-CC VAM 2 PCGS MS63 (Lot 3030)
If anyone doubts the general popularity of Carson City coinage, a quick look at the GreySheet will dispel any doubts. A VF specimen of the 84-CC is listed at $120! This may be madness, but it’s the current market value. The specimen offered here is a high quality PCGS example of the VAM 2. But what’s intriguing is the Die Break that runs through the “1-8-8-“ of the date, which makes this the latest die state this cataloger has seen. Feature not described in Leroy’s latest VAM Book supplement. |
$196.88 |
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1886-O VAM 1A ANACS AU55 (Lot 3033)
Here is an example of the well known VAM 1A with a strong Clashed E on the reverse. The fact that so many of the most dramatic clashed dies in the Morgan dollar series are found among New Orleans coinage is an indicator of the poorer quality of O-Mint silver dollars in general. Over-worked dies, weak strikes and clashed dies are trademarks of this southern Mint. This specimen, although exceptionally lustrous for an AU55, does have a abundance of distracting contact marks on the obverse. |
$78.75 |
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1888 Proof VAM 25 ANACS PF61 (Discovery Coin) (Lot 3034)
Mintage: 832. Yes, that’s right! Today, when 832,000 is a major rarity, here is a coin with an original mintage of only 832! Also, this specimen is the actual discovery coin, which was one of the first post-1878 Proof Morgan dollars to receive a VAM Number from Leroy Van Allen. This example was sent to Leroy because it displayed such a strongly repunched date “1-8-8-8.” And to top it all off, it had yet another 8” in the denticles! The specimen later received a Proof 61 grade from ANACS because the surfaces are significantly hairlined, which can result on Proof coins by wiping them with nothing more than a Kleenex. Even so, the surfaces have retoned, so that this is an attractive Proof coin. And as mentioned, this is an opportunity to acquire the actual VAM Book Plate Coin specimen. |
$1,068.75 |
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1888-O VAM 10 PCGS MS64 (Lot 3035)
The VAM 10 represents a Slanted Date die feature, meaning that the right end of the date is further away from the rim than the left end. But this is less than important. The reason this specimen is included here is the fact that it is a simply beautiful 1888-O example in a PCGS holder. If it isn’t an MS65, it’s close to it, with a smooth frosty cheek on Liberty and superb eye appeal. Aficionados can’t resist coins like this! |
$67.50 |
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1892-P VAM 3 PCGS MS62 (Lot 3036)
In the early 1890s silver dollar mintages generally declined, with the low point being 1893. In between, 1892 is a sought after date, and GreySheet prices reflect this fact. In terms of the variety, VAM 3 shows doubling underneath the top crossbar of the “1” in the date, and the first stars on the right show light doubling. Turn the coin over and there’s doubling on the bottom insides of the letters in UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Here is another solid PCGS offering, and in this case, it’s one of the more interesting 92-P varieties. |
$151.88 |
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1892-O VAM 1 NGC MS62 (Lot 3037)
For those intent on acquiring a nice BU 1892-O specimen slabbed by NGC, here is an example offered at a Minimum Bid that’s less that the wholesale value of the coin! And this beautiful specimen has more luster and far fewer marks than is customarily found on 1892-O examples. In fact, have I talked myself into thinking this coin could possibly stretch in somebody else’s holder to MS63? |
$140.63 |
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1896-P VAM 5 PCGS MS64 (Lot 3038)
The VAM 5 1896-P is an amazing repunched date! The “1” is doubled under the bottom crossbar. And the “8-9-6” show strong doubling at the tops of the numerals. The grade is wonderful, too. With a minimum of contact and a maximum of luster, this specimen is outstanding. And the VAM 5, if not the “best” 1896-P variety, is near the top of the ladder in terms of desirability. |
$61.88 |
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1896-O VAM 6 PCGS MS61 (Lot 3039)
Here is another repunched date, this one on an even rarer date, the 1896-O. In BU, this date represents a “big time” coin, with MS64 at $34,500. The VAM 6 variety, itself, shows strong doubling at the top of the “1” and the base of the “6.” But this extraordinary variety is overshadowed by the rarity of the date. So, condition is critically important. And here is where this specimen really shines. This VAM 6 example is most likely one of the best 96-O specimens you’ll encounter. It has excellent full luster, and a minimum of marks. So, we’re not sure why it’s not in a MS62 or better holder. In any case, we believe that as an PCGS MS61, it is a heck of a deal! |
$1,068.75 |
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1897-P VAM 3A ANACS MS63 PL (Lot 3040)
The 1897-P VAM 3 with its Doubled “1” obverse hasn’t generated much excitement over the years, but when it was found that the late die state of the variety has pitting on the reverse, it suddenly blazed onto the radar screens of variety specialists. This “Pitted Die” reverse shows light pitting on and around the “N” of ONE on the lower lower left reverse. Leroy Van Allen gives the VAM 3A an “R-5” rarity rating, so locating this variety in an MS63 PL holder could be quite a challenge. Well, here it is! |
$73.13 |
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1897-S VAM 4 ANACS MS63 DMPL (Lot 3041)
Here is a variety that should be much more popular than it is. It’s problem is that it has failed to get included in the popular TOP 100 and HOT 50 listings. The doubling on the bottom crossbar of the “1” is far down the vertical shaft. And the top of the “7” is also doubled. Sounds interesting? This specimen is in an MS63 DMPL holder, so it would be difficult find specimens better than this one! |
$146.25 |
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1898-S/S VAM 4 ANACS AU58 (Lot 3042)
The VAM 4 description has been revised by Leroy Van Allen to include the fact that the VAM 4 date is set slightly out of position to the left. But it’s main feature remains the “S/S” repunched mintmark. In terms of condition, this coin was undoubtedly submitted to ANACS as a nice BU specimen, but it came back AU58. That’s the consignor’s loss and the buyer’s gain! |
$73.13 |
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1899-O VAM 12 PCGS MS63 (Lot 3043)
There are many 1899-O varieties, the most important of which are the extremely popular Micro O varieties. But other than this group of mintmark anomalies, the rest of the 99-O VAMs have generally died on the vine. That’s where the VAM 12 comes in. It has a dramatic repunched date with the “1-8-9-“ all showing doubling. And the coin, itself, is an attractive PCGS MS63! |
$45.00 |
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1903-O VAM 4 ANACS MS64 (Lot 3044)
1903-O silver dollars, as a date, have had a tumultuous history in numismatics. At one time they were among the absolute rarest, most expensive dates in the entire Morgan dollar set. Then, when the government hoard of bags of silver dollars was dispersed in the 1960s, this date was found among them, and prices retreated. But can you believe it? Today, a VF specimen is worth $300, an XF is $310, etc. But according to the GreySheet, MS64 is only $365, so apparently, just having a specimen is the key to the date. Too bad this example is simply gorgeous. |
$337.50 |
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1904-P VAM 5 NGC MS63 (Lot 3045)
As a date, the 1904-P has been, in our opinion, quite under-valued. Only recently has its true scarcity been widely recognized, and today, in MS63 condition it’s listed in the GreySheet for $225. This is a far cry from its $60 price in MS60. The point is that the 1904-P is what specialists call a condition rarity. In fact, MS65 is now $2,700! This one is a stunning beauty. |
$196.88 |
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1921-P VAM 47 ANACS MS60 (Lot 3047)
Struck from so-called “Zerbe” Proof Dies, this is an intriguing die pair. But there’s a problem. We believe its history has more allure than its rarity. First, its history. Apparently a number of 1921-P presentation pieces where struck for Farren Zerbe in 1921, after which time the dies were used for normal silver dollar production. But since the huge mintages mandated for 1921 necessitated stretching the use of the dies past the breaking point, the number of coins struck from this die pair was probably enormous. In this light, we feel the VAM 47 may be quite over-rated. Yes, the “struck from proof dies” phrase often brings massive premiums on EBay, but have you ever noticed how many are offered? In any case, you be the judge. This uncirculated specimen is being offered cheap! |
$73.13 |
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1921-D VAM 1G NGC MS64 (Lot 3048)
1921-D has been a virtual gold field for new discoveries involving die states. The reason is simple. The 3 Mints in operation in 1921 were called upon to produce ten of millions of U.S. silver dollars, and the resulting necessity was to use the dies long past the time they should have been retired. Enter the VAM 1G. This pair of dies continued to strike coins even after they developed massive die cracks around the periphery. The result is spectacular. What’s special here is not only the variety, but also the grade and condition of this example. Both sides show jewel-like luster with golden brown toning at the edges. It’s an interesting VAM in uncommon condition. |
$106.88 |
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1904-O Rotated Reverse NCS Uncirculated (Cleaned) (Lot 3049)
This specimen shows a tremendous clock-wise rotation on the reverse of more than 200 degrees. Actually, calling these types of varieties “Rotated Reverses” is a misnomer, since either obverse or reverse could be the culprit that originally rotated in the coining press. So, this cataloger prefers “Rotated Dies” as a designation. In any case, this example finds itself in a Numismatic Conservation Service holder, which is the conservation arm of NGC. The reason is that the coin was at some point seriously cleaned, resulting in surfaces that appear lustrous, but un-natural. That said, this coin looks remarkably like a number of the coins sold as BU on any coin show bourse floor! |
$156.38 |
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1921-P Rotated Reverse NGC MS65 (Lot 3050)
The clock-wise rotation here is only 10% to 15%, so I would call this one interesting, but not worthy of a heavy premium. Die cracks are prominently visible around the periphery on both obverse and reverse, and this 16-Berry reverse is unattributed. Two tiny carbon spots on the reverse are noted, but it wasn’t enough for NGC to not assign the coin an MS65 grade. And the coin itself is quite attractive. White cheek and satiny fields give this specimen excellent eye appeal. |
$135.00 |
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1923-P VAM 1I NGC MS64 (Lot 3051)
If you like Peace dollars, but don’t care much about Peace dollar varieties, here’s a gorgeous Peace dollar in an NGC MS64 holder with a minimum bid of less than GreySheet Bid! But if you ARE in the least interested, here is an variety with a unique die gouge running diagonally through the “E” of LIBERTY on the obverse. Exceptional luster. |
$61.88 |
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1925-P VAM 1A ANACS MS63 (Lot 3052)
The VAM 1A was included in the TOP 50 listings because of its Die Gouge in the rays in Liberty’s head-dress. The Die Gouge below the “B” of LIBERTY runs horizontally across the rays and is quite dramatic. The specimen here is spectacular for the grade, and dare I say it, may be under-graded in an ANACS holder. In any case, this example would fit in just about anybody’s high quality TOP 50 Set. |
$90.00 |
| 1-40 | 41-42 | |
*Price includes the buyers premium.
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