| Winning Lots from Auction #4 |
| Lot Image |
Lot Name (Lot #)
Description |
Price Realized* |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 2 ANACS MS63 DMPL (Lot 4001)
If you think that getting a “Proof-Like” designation from any of the major grading services is difficult, just try getting one back with “Deep Mirror Proof-Like” on the label. For that reason, I tend to look for coins already labeled PL or DMPL. Many collectors have the same strategy, so that the appearance of any 8-TF slab with DMPL on it is a noteworthy event. The example offered here is a bit baggy on the obverse, but the mirrors are outstanding, the designs are frosty, and overall, this DMPL coin has lots of eye appeal. Looking for a bargain? How about an 8-TF Morgan with a Minimum Bid of one-half the Greysheet listed value! |
$438.75 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 2A NGC MS62 (Lot 4002)
This writer doesn’t give much credence to some of the clashed die listings for the 8-TF set. The reason is this: I’m not aware of any specimens of these same varieties that are NOT clashed. So, why give a clashed listing to varieties where there are no unclashed examples? That said, the VAM 2 certainly does exist with and without clashing (see Lot #1 in this auction), making the VAM 2A an important rarity. In fact, the total known population of the VAM 2A is probably less than fifteen. This NGC slabbed piece, while showing some contact on the cheek, has smooth surfaces and golden overtones. The result is an attractive example of a very rare sub-variety that’s missing from most collectors’ sets. |
$219.38 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 3 ANACS MS64 PL (Lot 4003)
Residing in an MS64 Proof-like holder, this is the top graded VAM 3 we’ve offered so far in one of our auctions. And if you’re a connoisseur of toning, the dramatic golden brown colors around the periphery of both obverse and reverse are sure to fire your imagination. Add in the fact that this top end specimen has beautiful underlying Proof-Like fields, and you can see why we’re so pleased to offer this highly desirable VAM 3 specimen here. |
$365.63 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 5 ANACS MS64 (Lot 4004)
What can be said about a variety that’s on the Hit List of just about every VAM collector, is tops in desirability and popularity, is a component of the TOP 100, and has variety features to kill for! Not enough? Add in the fact that a VAM 5 in MS64 is so rare that few collectors have seen one this breath-taking. And that’s just some of this coin’s incredible appeal. It’s frosty, lustrous and magnificent. Just owning a VAM like this raises a collection a notch or two! |
$1,068.75 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 7 ANACS MS63 (Lot 4006)
The 8-TF VAM 7 is interesting because it shares the same reverse with the ultra-rare VAM 14-5. So, a careful check of reverse/obverse features is well worth the effort. As to its availability, the VAM 7 is normally common up through MS62, but the population quickly thins out in MS63. And in MS64, the variety is actually quite scarce. On this specimen, the contact on Liberty’s cheek precludes an MS64 grade, but the obverse fields show almost no marks, and the reverse would grade at least MS64. The combination of a holder labeled MS63 and a Minimum Bid of less than $100 give this item a lot of potential. |
$135.00 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 10 PGCS MS62 (Lot 4008)
Over the past decade, the VAM 10 has developed into something of a premium variety, which often brings surprisingly high prices in today’s market. Case in point, an ANACS MS63 specimen with a DMPL obverse recently sold for $208.13. The PCGS MS62 offered here also has a Proof-Like obverse. Also worth noting are the light die cracks between several numerals in the date, which this cataloger hasn’t noticed before. Nice contrast and a sharp strike make this VAM 10 example highly desirable. |
$147.38 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 14 ICGS MS63 (Lot 4010)
The VAM 14 is a “Big Time” variety in strict BU condition. It’s scarce, but available, up through AU, yet in Mint State, the VAM 14 is a seldom encountered rarity. As for specimens higher than the grade offered here, I’m only aware of three or four MS64 examples and no MS65’s. What that means is that this VAM 14 may well be within the Condition Census for the population of this ultra desirable 8-TF variety. Semi Proof-like fields on both sides add to its appeal. At the moment, it’s unlikely that you could find another MS63 for sale in a slab anywhere else. |
$354.38 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 14-1A PCGS MS62 (Lot 4011)
Up until the last two or three years, I considered the VAM 14-1A to be one of the clashed die varieties that shouldn’t really have its own listing. Why? Because there were no specimens WITHOUT evidence of clashing. However, that viewpoint instantly changed with the discovery of an early die state VAM 14-1 with no clashing. Only three or four of those EDS specimens are now known. As for the late die variety which is offered here, it remains as common as ever. But its appeal is the old PCGS holder and thus the conservative grading. Low Minimum Bid in a PCGS slab. |
$114.48 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 14-14 ANACS VF35 (Lot 4013)
A drum roll please…. Here is one of the legendary 8-TF ultra-rarities, which is on everybody’s Want List, the VAM 14-14. There are probably less that 25 specimens known in all grades, and even fewer will find their way into a slab. Tilt the reverse of this VF under a light, and the original PL surfaces are evident. Super scarce. |
$646.88 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 15 ANACS MS62 PL (Lot 4014)
The VAM 15 is one of the superstars of the TOP 100. It has been sought after for more than two decades, and in the early days of 8-TF specialization, it was so highly regarded that several collectors focused on this variety exclusively. Fast forward to today, and it’s still on the Hit Lists of most VAM collectors. This specimen, with its Proof-Like surfaces, needle-sharp strike, and concave reflective reverse, is impressive for an MS62, and it’s an important offering in this auction. The RCI TOP 100 Value Guide lists the VAM 15 in MS62PL at $1000+. |
$646.88 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 19 NGC MS64 PL (Lot 4015)
There has been much discussion about the fact that in today’s market PL and DMPL designations are virtually impossible to get from the major grading services. Here is a specimen labeled “PL” that might even have a possible shot at DMPL, since it holds up nicely when compared to other pieces designated MS64 DMPL. The difference is important, as the GreySheet lists an MS64 DMPL 8-TF at $4000! Here, the frosty cheek and super fields combine to give this specimen lots of “wow factor.” |
$410.63 |
 |
1878-P 8-TF VAM 21 PCGS MS63 (Lot 4016)
There’s no denying it – The VAM 21 is one of the most common 8-TF varieties. But the fact that it’s in a PCGS holder and it’s priced right are two big factors that raise it a couple of notches on the desirability scale. But more importantly, what this discussion has left out is the fact that this coin is a stunning 8-TF specimen, that would be create excitement regardless of the VAM number. Golden toning around the periphery and lustrous surfaces make this one a perfect candidate to put away for the future. That may be why PCGS MS63’s bring such high prices on venues like EBay. |
$135.00 |
 |
1878-P 7-TF VAM 31 PCGS MS62 (Lot 4017)
The VAM 31 is an intriguing variety, which is commonly labeled “7-TF” on grading service slabs, but is actually a so-called “7/8-TF” variety. At least two different Hubs were involved, whether a combination of 7-TF over an 8-TF Hub, a 7-TF over another 7-TF Hub, or as Pete Bishal contended, a 7-TF over a Pattern 7-TF Hub. In any case, the area of diagonal die polishing around the eagle’s right talon (on viewer’s left) probably represents an attempt to efface some of the doubled features created by using different Hubs. In terms of the specimen here, its bright luster is unusual, and overall it’s safe to say it is superior to most of the MS62 specimens found in today’s marketplace. |
$67.50 |
 |
1878-P 7/8-TF VAM 38 PCGS MS62 (Lot 4018)
As a variety, it’s hard to get excited about the VAM 38, because it’s one of the most common of the 7/8-TF VAMs. But it does have a couple of things going for it. First of all, it’s in a PCGS holder which is labeled “Strong” 7/8-TF. This translates into more money. And secondly, the doubling of LIBERTY in the head-band shows the largest shift of any known Morgan dollar variety. There are bagmarks here and there, but the luster is impressive, and again… it’s in a PCGS holder. |
$129.38 |
 |
1878-P 7-TF VAM 70 PCGS MS62 (Lot 4020)
The VAM 70 is one of this writer’s favorite 7-TF varieties. It shows spectacular doubling on RIB of PLURIBUS, and not surprisingly, it’s included in the TOP 100 listings. And this variety, with its “Long Nock” B1 Reverse, is quite scarce. Throw into the mix the fact that the specimen offered here is semi Proof-like, and you have a rather exciting coin. Conservatively graded, but with enough marks on the cheek to make a case for MS62, I must say that I’ve seen specimens that were a less attractive in MS63 holders from other grading services. With frosty obverse devices, this is a standout specimen with an MS65+ reverse. |
$158.06 |
 |
1878-P 7-TF VAM 84 NGC MS62 (Lot 4021)
The VAM 84, which has a dramatic “dash” under the first “8” of the date, is one of the 7-TF “Long Nock” B1 reverse varieties. But it’s the condition that is noteworthy here, as this may be one of the best MS62 specimens I’ve encountered. Indeed, it’s an arm’s length MS64, with frosty devices and semi Proof-Like fields. It has abundant luster and strong eye appeal, and in the final analysis, it may be the perfect inexpensive specimen, if you don’t already have one. And even if you do, look at the price! |
$86.50 |
 |
1878-P 7-TF VAM 131C PCGS MS62 (Lot 4022)
The first Proof Morgan dollars struck in 1878 had the generic attributes of what Van Allen calls the VAM 131. There are a number of varieties with the primary VAM 131 attributes, including this example with a die polishing line through the “IB” of LIBERTY. That diagnostic makes this one the VAM 131C. As for the grading, most of the dealers in today’s marketplace would assign it a grade of MS63. Solid luster, a reverse that’s somewhat reflective, and fewer than average marks of any kind, make this example worth pursuing. |
$73.13 |
 |
1878-S VAM 40 NGC MS63 (Lot 4024)
The 1878-S varieties are now starting to come into their own. With reserves of 8-TF, 7/8-TF and 7-TF specimens nearing exhaustion, 78-S varieties are the next logical direction. And here is a seldom seen variety, the VAM 40, which has a vertical line in Liberty’s eye and a series of die chips below and behind the eye. Then, to lock in the attribution on the reverse, there is a die scratch on top of the ribbon bow. I’ve never seen one of these offered for sale. As for the condition, this specimen, which has extremely frosty devices and very few marks, is simply gorgeous for a standard MS63. |
$67.50 |
 |
1879-S Rev78 VAM 42 ANACS MS62 (Lot 4025)
The first thing to note here is that the old ANACS holder says “VAM 34,” which is completely wrong. This specimen is a VAM 42, with its diagnostic chip between the “T” and “Y” in LIBERTY on the obverse and the Broken “R” reverse. This coin was originally acquired because it is a beautiful “Shot 63,” which means it has a reasonable shot at getting into somebody’s MS63 holder. In fact, no one who’s seen the coin can explain why it’s in an MS62 slab, but that’s the buyer’s opportunity here. |
$146.25 |
 |
1879-S Unattributed PCGS MS62 (Lot 4026)
Here’s an unattributed coin that’s interesting because there’s evidence that the dies originally clashed and then the clash marks were polished off the die. This is noteworthy only because there are so few 1879-S specimens with even a hint of clashed dies on the obverse and reverse. Apparently, the San Francisco Mint was acutely aware of clashing. In any event, with postage and the cost of a PCGS holder, which probably exceeds $25, this Minimum Bid of $25 implies the coin itself is being offered for free! |
$36.00 |
 |
1883-O VAM 25 PCGS MS62 DMPL (Lot 4032)
Here is a variety that we haven’t seen up for sale before. The “3” in the date shows slight doubling at the bottom left inside of the numeral and the “O” mintmark is tilted to the left, so that it looks far out of position. But the key thing here is that it’s in a PCGS holder, which means it would be in someone else’s MS63 DMPL slab. As an exclamation point here, Liberty’s cheek is extremely clean and frosty for the grade. And overall, this is a lot of coin for the money. |
$79.84 |
 |
1884-P VAM 9 PCGS MS63 (Lot 4033)
The date on this specimen is set far to the right of its “normal” position. In fact, it has one of the most out-of-position dates I can remember seeing. The left side of the “1” is over the fourth denticle to the right of the date, rather than the third. Even so, the VAM book lists only one 84-P variety with “very far” date, but it shows a “dot” on the second “8” which this example doesn’t have. The conclusion is that this is a generic VAM 9, unless Van Allen has revised the VAM number. This coin is a “typical” PCGS MS63, which means it’s most everyone else’s MS64! Lustrous and attractive. |
$38.25 |
 |
1884-O/O VAM 11 PCGS MS63 DMPL (Lot 4034)
Repunched mintmarks represent an important group of 1884-O varieties. The VAM 11, with its underlying mintmark visible as a curved line down the center of the primary “O,” is one of the most dramatic O/O examples. On the obverse, the “1” in the date shows a dot of metal in front of the bottom crossbar, and the “8” is clearly doubled at the bottom right outside. All in all, this is a wonderful example of this interesting variety, and in our opinion, common date MS63 DMPLs should be worth double what they currently are! This specimen is a case, in point. |
$92.25 |
 |
1885-O VAM 16 PCGS MS65 (Lot 4036)
The VAM 16 is a little known “Doubled Arrows” variety. The arrow shafts are clearly doubled on the VAM 16, and Van Allen has assigned an R-5 rating to this rarely seen variety. To nail down the attribution, the obverse must show a “dash” under the 2nd “8” in the date and the date is set out of position to the right. Sound like a variety collector’s dream? It is. This is the first VAM 16 we’ve encountered, and to top things off, it’s in a PCGS MS65 holder! |
$140.63 |
 |
1885-S VAM 5 NGC MS62 (Lot 4037)
Here is a stunning specimen of the rare 1885-S Morgan, which as a date, is both desirable and quite valuable. The “Far Date” variety feature is less than significant, as the wonderful “look” of the coin outweighs all other considerations. In fact, you won’t see many 1885-S coins in MS62 holders with this much “sparkle.” Proof-Likes of this date are exceedingly rare, and this coin has Semi Proof-Like surfaces and jewel-like luster. Super. |
$185.63 |
 |
1887-P VAM 3 PCGS MS65 PL (Lot 4038)
Sometimes a coin just grabs your attention because it is such high quality. This VAM 3 is like that! It shows a Repunched Date (“1--7”) with slight doubling under the top crossbar of the “1” and strong doubling along the top of the “7.” This fully Proof-Like specimen came out of a large Superior Galleries auction from 1993, and it was a show-stopper then. It still is! |
$157.50 |
 |
1887-P VAM 13 ANACS MS64 (Lot 4039)
The VAM 13 has recently gained notoriety for its “Misplaced Date” variety feature, amidst a renewed enthusiasm for this segment of VAM collecting. In response, Van Allen has published a booklet devoted solely to “Misplaced Dates” in the Morgan dollar series. Getting back to the VAM 13, the top of a “7” is visible in the denticles under the second “8” in the date. But it has more going for it than just that. It is also a “Doubled Stars” variety, with the star to the right of the date showing the strongest shift. And to top it all off, the reverse of the VAM 13 is a doubled die, as well. How good is this example? It’s PQ in every sense, and if it isn’t MS65, it’s not far from it! |
$50.63 |
 |
1887-S/S VAM 2 ANACS MS62 (Lot 4040)
Often, on repunched mintmarks, such a small portion of the underlying mintmark is visible that it takes a bit of an imagination to visualize the RPM. That’s not the case with the 1887-S/S VAM 2, and it may be its biggest asset. In fact, there’s no question here as to the clear remains of the underlying “S” inside the mintmark. Like all San Francisco dollars from 1883 to 1889, the 1887 is relatively scarce, although the VAM 2 is often encountered. Bright luster and sharp detail bring out the best in this outstanding specimen. |
$140.63 |
 |
1892-S VAM 2 ANACS VF30 (Lot 4043)
Talk about better dates. This is one of the BEST dates in Morgan dollar collecting. 1892-S is at the top of the silver dollar food-chain, and fortunately for VAM enthusiasts, there is one die variety that is currently on everyone’s Hit List. That variety is the VAM 2 Doubled Date, where the doubling on the numerals of the date is as uniquely special as the date, itself. But on a coin like this, condition is absolutely critical. There’s nothing wrong with a VG, if it’s correctly graded, and the same is true of an MS64. That’s why we recommend only acquiring slabbed 92-S and 93-S specimens. You can’t afford to be wrong! Here, the grade is appropriate, and the “look” of the coin far exceeds its grade. There’s even a hint of underlying PL surfaces! |
$421.88 |
 |
1895-O VAM 3 ANACS AU55 (Lot 4045)
1895-O is one of the key dates in the Morgan dollar series. How Key? In MS65 condition, it’s a $160,000 item! For the date, these high values reach all the way down to specimens grading only VG, which the Greysheet lists at $255. This slabbed AU55 is a very Choice AU example of the VAM 3, which is one of only five different die varieties known for the 1895-O. Talk about rare and desirable. This beautiful example is enough to make your heart stop. GreySheet Bid for an AU50 is $1100, which makes this Minimum Reserve of $850 an amazing bargain! |
$956.25 |
 |
1897-P VAM 8 NGC MS64 (Lot 4047)
Here is an under-appreciated VAM where the left stars on the obverse are doubled, and the top edge of Liberty’s cap, the top of the right cotton leaf and the front edge of Liberty’s forehead all show clear doubling, as well. Van Allen has assigned it an R-5 rarity rating, so, at least in his mind, it is a rare coin. That said, a few marks here and there are all that separate this specimen from a higher grade, and its smooth, lustrous surfaces are impressive. |
$129.38 |
 |
1902-O VAM 9 PCGS MS64 (Lot 4048)
The VAM 9 is a particularly interesting variety as it can boast of both a doubled die obverse and a doubled die reverse. On the obverse, Liberty’s profile is strongly doubled from the forehead, down to the lips and chin. Van Allen notes doubling on the left stars and “E PLU” of E PLURIBUS, as well. On the reverse, the tops of “In God We Trust” are doubled, as are the bottom insides of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Whew! The lustrous surfaces of the coin are its best selling point, but vertical Planchet striations on the obverse are noted. PCGS obviously didn’t think they impact the grade. In any case, this is a nice specimen of an interesting variety. |
$46.13 |
 |
1899-P VAM 5 PCGS MS63 DMPL (Lot 4049)
With an original mintage of only 330,846 the 1899-P has the 7th lowest mintage of any Morgan dollar. That’s slightly lower than the ultra-rare 1889-CC! But a number have survived, particularly in lower grades. However, few collectors have ever seen an MS63 DMPL 1899-P specimen! VAMquest Auctions is pleased to offer one here. First of all, the variety is a VAM 5, which is one of only two varieties that have attracted collectors. In fact, only six different die pairs have been identified for the entire miniscule mintage. The VAM 5 has a repunched date with doubling visible on the “18-9.” But it’s the grade that’s spectacular. Frosty devices, extremely deep mirrors, and vivid contrast make this an exceptional specimen. And it’s in a PCGS MS63 DMPL holder! |
$455.63 |
 |
1921-P Zerbe Dies ANACS MS64 (Lot 4050)
Several collectors commented that I may have gone overboard in the last auction about the over-rated nature of the 1921-P varieties struck from so-called “Zerbe Dies.” Maybe so, but I see far too many of them to be the major rarities that they’re being touted as. Actually, the “Zerbe Dies” are most likely a series of dies, all struck from a single 17-Berry Hub. This Hub would have the primary “Zerbe” attributes, a multitude of die scratches across the topmost arrowhead, and “dot” next to the one in the date. One email said that a BU “Zerbe” was bid up to over $1000 on EBay. This doesn’t make much sense, as the Minimum Reserve for the MS64 example offered here is $35. |
$114.75 |
 |
1921-S VAM 1S NGC MS63 Discovery Coin (Lot 4052)
Here is the actual Discovery Coin for an intriguing variety with some pitting around and to the left of the “S” mintmark. Obviously quite rare, since specialists have been inspecting the mintmark area of 1921-S dollars for three decades without encountering one of these. But eagle-eyed cherry-picker Bill Fivaz found this one, and Van Allen assigned it an R-5 rarity rating. The lower obverse is starting to tone a golden brown and the rest of the coin is basically white, with incredibly smooth surfaces for a 21-S. This high grade example of the VAM 1S may still be unique. In any case, this is the first and only one we’ve seen or heard of. Plus, it’s a gorgeous coin. |
$163.13 |
 |
1921-P VAM 3 ANACS MS60 (Lot 4053)
As a grade, MS60 is usually the dregs. By that I mean that specimens grading MS60 are either so heavily abraided with contact marks or they really aren’t uncirculated. Well, this MS60 coin is not only truly Mint State, but its surfaces are far above average. Then, why the grade? The high relief 1921 Peace dollar is most often very weakly struck. That’s the reason the relief was lowered in 1922. And that may account for why this beautiful specimen was graded MS60. The VAM 3, itself, is a HOT 50 variety with a unique re-engraving of one of the reverse rays. Exceedingly attractive for the grade. |
$219.38 |
 |
1923-P VAM 1A ANACS AU58 (Lot 4054)
Die Breaks in the Peace dollar series represent the pinnacle of popularity in today’s market, and coins like the whimsically named “Whisker Jaw” sell for jaw-dropping prices on EBay and elsewhere. Take the 1923-P VAM 1A for example. Asking prices for examples in all grades routinely sell for exorbitant prices. Here, we offer a Late Die State specimen with the diagnostic die break at the junction of Liberty’s chin and neck. In terms of condition, this VAM 1A shows just the barest of wear on the high points. In fact, it’s the kind of specimen you often see at coin shows sold as “UNC.” In any case, this one is in an ANACS AU58 holder and it’s everything a collector would want in that grade. Lustrous with good detail. |
$84.38 |
 |
1926-P VAM 4 NGC MS64 (Lot 4057)
This doubled die obverse is really out of the ordinary for a Peace dollar. The quick-and-easy identifier is the split serif at the top of the “6” in the date. But the doubling on the bottom strands of Liberty’s hair is the more important diagnostic. Also showing doubling are the designer’s initials and TRV of TRVST. Not listed in the big VAM Book, this “Doubled Hair” variety is one of a limited number of 26-P VAMs. But its biggest selling point is its condition. With smooth, almost flawless surfaces and booming luster, this PQ specimen should catch the eye of some discriminating collector. |
$101.25 |
| 1-38 | |
*Price includes the buyers premium.
|
