| Winning Lots from Auction #7 |
| Lot Image |
Lot Name (Lot #)
Description |
Price Realized* |
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1878-P 8-TF VAM 4 SEGS MS63 (Lot 7001)
Here’s an unusual item where the holder may be more important than the coin! Up front, let me say that this 8-TF VAM 4 is in a SEGS slab that says MS63 on the label, but is, in my opinion, a no-question MS61 or MS62. However, it’s in a very rare “Signature Holder.” By way of background, this cataloger was asked to do a few of these slabs for SEGS when they were first getting started. (I did the attribution and they did the grading.) Very few of these holders still exist, and the relationship soon ended. In any case, one or two have appeared on EBay, and they brought large premiums. This item is not for everybody, but if you happen to collect Morgan dollar related items, then here is something a bit out of the ordinary. |
$126.00 |
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1878-P 7/8-TF VAM 36 PCGS MS62 (Lot 7005)
This and the following lot share the same reverse, as both the VAM 36 and the VAM 37 have the B/A-g reverse with four clearly defined extra tips visible under the TFs. This hand-pickd specimen is a stunning piece with Semi Proof-Like surfaces on both obverse and reverse. And as an MS62, it is far superior to most of the MS63’s found in non-PCGS holders. Of course, that’s why their coins bring the premiums they do! |
$174.38 |
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1878-P 7/8-TF VAM 37 ANACS MS63 (Obv PL on hldr) (Lot 7006)
ANACS came up a good innovation when they placed “Obverse-only” and “Reverse-only” designations on their labels. What’s at issue? All agree that in order to qualify as a proof-like or DMPL specimen, both the obverse AND the reverse must be a full PL or DMPL to get those designations. But what about one-sided PLs or DMPLs? ANACS solved that one by using “one-side only” designations. The result was a premium coin to collectors, which in this case, includes frosty devices and nice contrast. |
$168.75 |
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1878-P 7/8-TF VAM 38 PCGS MS63 (Lot 7007)
The VAM 38 has one feature that separates it from all other 7/8-TF varieties. The word, LIBERTY, which is doubled across the head-band, shows the greatest shift known for any Morgan dollar. The Reverse shows five extra TF tips, and is labeled “Strong” on this PCGS slab. But what’s not on the holder is the fact that both obverse and reverse have highly reflective surfaces. Are they proof-like? Apparently not to PCGS, but these fields add much to the eye appeal of the coin. We’d buy MS63 coins all day long if they looked like this one! |
$225.00 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 82 NGC MS63PL (Lot 7008)
Everybody knows how hard it is to get a “DMPL” designations on NGC holders these days. In the past, this VAM 82, with its deeply reflective surfaces, would have come back from any grading service as DMPL. But today, the owner got a “PL” on it. In any case, if you’re putting together a set of 1878 varieties, and want to include the B1 Reverse VAMs in your set, then this is a fabulous specimen to acquire! |
$168.75 |
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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 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 PCGS MS62 (Lot 7011)
This nice looking 7TF Morgan is yours for the taking. In effect, you’re paying for the slab and the coin is basically free. The VAM 114A is the very late die state version of the VAM 114 and severe die clashing necessitated extensive polishing to remove the clash marks. The result was that some of Liberty’s hair around the “M” designer’s initial on the obverse is missing. As for the grade, the cheek shows bag marks consistent with an MS62 grade. On the positive side, this is highly lustrous, no-question BU has a Minimum Bid of only $35. |
$41.63 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 160 ANACS AU53 (Lot 7013)
This lot is the first of several rare 1878 7-TF varieties with what’s called a B2-c Reverse, meaning the “r’ in TRUST on the reverse displays a broken horizontal arm. Most of the known varieties with this reverse are very scarce. Offered first is the VAM 160. It has the same obverse as the super rare VAM 118, and its key diagnostic is the major “hook” at the top right of the “P” in PLURIBUS. This variety is rare and desirable in AU, with less than five BU examples known. Good luster and sharp detail add to the appeal here. |
$101.25 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 161 ANACS AU50 (Lot 7014)
It was mentioned in the preceding lot description that most of the B2-c Reverse varieties are scarce to very rare. Well, the VAM 161 is ultra rare! We have seen very few of these in any grade over the years, and this is our first offering of one. The VAM 161 is a variety that doesn’t get much respect, but it seems to be missing form most sets. In any case, this AU specimen is nice for the grade and about as good as they get. |
$146.25 |
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1878-P 7-TF VAM 162 ANACS AU50 (Lot 7015)
The VAM 162 is another of the rare ones in the 7TF set. It has a B2-c Reverse, and the key diagnostic for this variety is the “broken serif” on the “N” and “M” of UNUM. In total, there are four 7TF “Broken N & M” varieties, VAMs 110, 145, 162 and 200. Of these, the VAM 162 is the rarest, and in fact, less than ten BU specimens have so far come to light. Is that rare enough? This coin was one of the highlights of the consignor’s 7-TF set and the collection is now being dispersed. Excellent luster and sharp detail make this VAM 162 something really special. |
$168.75 |
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1878-S VAM 62 "Long Nock" in ANACS VF25 (Lot 7017)
Since the 1980’s, 1878-S “Long Nock” Morgans have been something of a battle cry for collectors. Every one of the six known varieties is exceedingly rare, but the more recently discovered VAM 62 is among the rarest and most desirable! Sharing the same obverse as the VAM 56, it can be difficult to attribute. Indeed, the ANACS holder here says “VAM 56.” But be assured this is a VAM 62. We guarantee it! In terms of availability, this variety is one of the two rarest 78-S Long Nock varieties, and low grades are the rule. In fact, we are unaware of any specimen even approaching a BU grade. Also note this is NOT a net-graded coin, which is the case for more than 50% of the 1878-S Long Nock specimens that enter the marketplace. |
$461.25 |
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1879-P VAM 1A/37 PCGS AU55 (Lot 7018)
We’ll start off with a wager. We’ll bet there’s not a single person viewing this auction who has ever seen a specimen of this variety, much less ever owned one! What are we talking about? It’s the rare VAM 1A, which Van Allen later renamed VAM 37. To begin, all the stars to the left and right of date are doubled, tripled or quadrupled. This would be more than enough to make this an interesting variety. But on the reverse, it’s the pitting to the right of the ribbon bow that really sets the VAM 1A apart. We should also mention that this 1879-P was submitted to PCGS as a MS62 -- which obviously makes it quite outstanding for the AU55 grade! |
$129.38 |
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1880-P VAM 34 PCGS MS64 (Lot 7019)
Of the first 38 1880-P VAMs cataloged by Van Allen/Mallis in the big VAM Book, only one had a doubled die obverse, the VAM 34. Now, with all the revisions and new discoveries, there are still less than five DDOs listed. As for the VAM 34, it’s rarer than the VAM Book indicates, and its doubled features are dramatic. In fact, most of the stars and lettering around the entire obverse periphery show doubling, with the strongest pick-up point being the stars to the right of the date. As for condition, this PCGS MS64 specimen is the best example we’ve seen by at least two grades, and most would agree that this one has a shot at MS65. |
$112.50 |
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1880-S 8/7 VAM 10 ANACS MS64 (Lot 7022)
Of the five major 1880-S overdate varieties, the VAM 10 is the “stopper” of the set. Indeed, it’s the rarest in all grades and can be surprisingly difficult to find. This is the best VAM 10 we’ve handled. Blazing luster is the first feature that stands out on this scarce overdate, and it has the high quality “blast” that’s typical on the best 80-S coinage. Adding to its allure is the frostiness of the devices and the semi reflective surfaces. Nice! |
$208.13 |
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1880-S 8/7 VAM 12 PCGS MS64 (Lot 7023)
Of the five 1880-S overdates, VAMs 8, 9 and 10 were included in the TOP 100 listings, and the VAM 11 later became part of the HOT 50. Now, that leaves the VAM 12 as the natural choice for a future list! The upshot is that this may represent a ground-floor opportunity to acquire the last unlisted 80-S overdate in high grade. Look at the second “8” in the date on your 80-S silver dollars. The VAM 12 shows a hint of an “ear” much like the VAM 6 series of 1880-O overdates and there is also the hint of a checkmark, as well. The VAM 12 example in this old PCGS MS64 “rattler” slab will take your breath away! |
$112.50 |
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1880-S VAM 46 NGC MS63 (Lot 7024)
If “flash” is your thing, then you’ve got to love 1880-S silver dollars. They’re what all Morgan dollars should look like – white devices, sharp strike and superb luster. But here, there is an extra feature that’s unusual for an 80-S. It’s the obvious “Dash” under the second “8” of the date. Similar dash-marks are frequently found on 1883-O and 1884-O coins, but it’s actually a scarce phenomenon on the 1880-S. In fact, there are less than a half dozen “Dash” varieties known for this date out of more than 80 VAM listings. |
$46.13 |
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1882-P Partial Collar Error NGC Conservation (Lot 7025)
This error coin is in an NGC Conservation Holder (NCS) and is not in a graded slab because there is an area of cleaning around Liberty’s neck. That said, this coin would otherwise be graded Brilliant Uncirculated. But in any case, we couldn’t pass this one up, since Partial Collar errors (where there is no reeding on the edge of the coin) are as rare as hen’s teeth! Want an exciting rarity? This is it! And at arm’s length, the coin looks BU. |
$174.38 |
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1883-P Unattributed PCGS MS65 (Lot 7027)
We love Premium Quality coins! And more than likely, so do you. No need to worry about an attribution here, as the coin is so gorgeous that its smooth, lustrous surfaces are all that matter. And the fact that this stunning coin is in a PCGS holder is an added plus. In fact, it’s a huge plus! In terms of value, the fact that the 1883-P in MS65 is only 10% more than the common dates is absurd. Or do I hear an opportunity knocking! |
$140.63 |
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1883-O VAM 36A NGC MS64 (Lot 7028)
The 1883-O VAM 36A is near the top of the food chain because of one feature, a clearly visible Clashed E on the lower reverse under the eagle’s tail-feathers. This “HOT 50” variety is quite popular with VAM specialists, and the reverse is shared with another variety, the even rarer VAM 22A. Clashed dies now have their own book, and “Clashed E” varieties, at least in this cataloger’s mind, are the ultimate clashed die specimens. The obverse here is breath-taking for its appeal. White, lustrous and sharp detail result in as good a VAM 36A specimen as we’ve ever encountered. |
$140.63 |
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1884-O VAM 4 NGC MS63 (Lot 7029)
Here is a variety that everyone should be on the lookout for. It has “overlapping reeding,” which means that the reeding on the edge of the coin is actually “doubled” in one or more places. Adding to the excitement, the VAM 4 also has a nicely repunched “18” in the date and tiny dots of metal that cover much of Liberty’s head from pitting on the die. Of course, the doubling isn’t accessible inside a slab, but it IS there! Also, I see some polishing lines at the top of the “I” of “IN GOD…” which might indicate it’s a VAM 4A. In that case it’s an even rarer R-7 variety. Whatever the case may be, this incredible specimen has few marks, nice luster, and lots of eye appeal. |
$39.38 |
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1884-O/O Unattributed PCGS MS66 (Lot 7031)
When it comes to high grades up in the stratosphere, like MS66, we suggest you stick with coins in PCGS holders. Why? Try crossing one over one into a different holder and you’ll likely get a rude awakening. This coin has what it takes to be an MS66 AND it’s already in a PCGS holder. Also, the Repunched Mintmark shows a dramatic underlying “O.” Superb! |
$264.38 |
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1885-P VAM 7 NGC MS65 (Lot 7033)
The VAM Book correctly lists the VAM 7 as a ‘Dash” variety set low. But what the description left out was the tripled/quadrupled reverse die! Close inspection reveals that the bottom insides of many of the letters in UNITED STATES OF AMERICA show the startling effects of tripling and quadrupling. Interested in quality 1885-P Morgans? You couldn’t do better than this NGC MS65 Beauty, with its almost flawless surfaces, satin luster and outstanding eye appeal. |
$135.00 |
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1887-P VAM 10 ANACS MS62 (Lot 7035)
Why would anyone buy an 87-P in MS62? The answer must be that the variety is interesting. And so it is. Here is a doubled date with nice doubling under the first “8.” We don’t see many of these, and if you are putting together sets of complete VAM numbers, then you might like to acquire this variety. In any case, this slabbed VAM 10 is priced right! |
$33.75 |
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1888-P Bass Collection PCGS MS62 (Lot 7037)
At the highest echelons of coin collecting, the pedigree of a coin becomes increasingly important. And when a legendary collector is known to have owned it, the provenance adds lots of value. Enter the famous Bass Collection. It was so significant to values that PCGS was willing to place his name on the holder. Here we have a piece of history with a Morgan dollar from the Bass collection. You probably couldn’t find one of these anywhere else! |
$95.63 |
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1888-P VAM 11A ANACS MS64 (Lot 7038)
As a strong “Doubled Ear” variety, the VAM 11 is an interesting variety. That’s especially the case since Van Allen has written an entire monograph about the 1889-P “Doubled Ear” varieties, none of which are as strong as this TOP 100 1888-P example. But there’s more: This high grade specimen is also the late die state with strong die clashing, which is now known as the VAM 11A. As an R-5 rarity, this clashed die pair is exceptional. And the smooth, unblemished cheek makes this a truly spectacular MS64. |
$112.50 |
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1889-P VAM 14 ANACS MS62 (Lot 7039)
The 1889-P VAM 14 shows minor doubling on the “1—9” in the date, but the quick-and-dirty diagnostic is the die chip between the loops on the right side of the first “8.” No one is going to get too excited about this variety, but the coin is particularly attractive for the grade. Cheap at twice the price! |
$28.13 |
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1890-P VAM 10 ANACS MS62 DMPL (Lot 7042)
Check your collection to see if you have an 1890-P VAM 10. Chances are you don’t! Why? It’s not that easy to attribute, and even the professionals at ANACS got it wrong, as it says VAM 4 on the holder. The difference is that the VAM 10 does not show doubling on the “1” in the date, and is probably much scarcer than the VAM 4. In any case, how often do you see 1890-P specimens in DMPL holders? Not often, I’ll bet. Here we have an interesting variety that may be quite scarce, in a holder with “DMPL” on the label. Sounds like the best of all worlds to me! |
$73.13 |
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1890-S Unattributed PCGS MS63 PL (Lot 7043)
Whoa! This coin has “killer” looks and the mirrors are wonderfully deep. Moreover, this coin would almost certainly be someone else’s DMPL specimen! As for the variety, the date is set to the right out of position. But it really doesn’t matter, since the buyer of this Lot will be purchasing it as a high quality MS63 Proof-like specimen in a PCGS holder. 1890-S silver dollars tend to be quite scarce with these kinds of mirrors. And the coin is simply beautiful! |
$118.13 |
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1892-O Unattributed PCGS MS63 (Lot 7045)
Here it is…A better date in the best holder in a high grade. This extremely delightful coin is just what you’d expect from a winning combination like that! Lots of luster, no distracting contact and smooth surfaces lead me to believe this example would be sold as an MS64 at most coin shows. And the price goes up geometrically. In any case, this 1892-O is simply outstanding for the grade. |
$225.00 |
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1898-O Unattributed PCGS MS64 (Lot 7049)
If this isn’t the finest looking MS64 graded coin in existence, it’s close to it! In today’s marketplace you just can’t find coins like this, unless you’re willing to stretch to MS66 grades. This 1898-O, being held hostage in a PCGS MS64 holder, is awesome in every respect and would make a spectacular MS65! |
$47.25 |
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1899-O VAM 32 "Micro O" ANACS XF40 (Lot 7050)
If you like ultra-rarities, then the 99-O Micro O VAM 32 fits the bill perfectly. First of all, even the most common 1899-O Micro O varieties are quite scarce. But the two rarest are the VAM 32 and the VAM 5. While many collectors have a VAM 5, few have ever seen a VAM 32, and it remains a missing “hole” in most collections. That said, we guarantee the attribution of all the lots in every auction, and this is a VAM 32. There is considerable contact on the surfaces, but interestingly, if you tilt the coin, there is still some reflectivity on both sides of the coin, even in this low grade. Not the prettiest specimen, but they don’t come much better than this! Ultra-rare and desirable. |
$225.00 |
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1900-P VAM 2A/10A ANACS MS64 (Lot 7051)
The 1889-P “Bar Wing” variety, with its die break on the eagle’s wing, is one of the more popular TOP 100 varieties. Here, the 1900-P VAM 10A has an equivalent break on the left wreath, which should get the adrenaline going! Indeed, when more collectors know about it, the VAM 10A may become a hot item. In any case, it’s rare and Van Allen gives it an R-6 rarity rating. And lastly, it’s a pleasure to say that this VAM 10A is in superb top of the line condition. Of the few we have seen, none can compare to this one! |
$129.38 |
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1902-O Unattributed PCGS MS63 (Lot 7056)
We didn’t bother with the attribution on this one, because it just didn’t seem to matter. Why? The coin was so gorgeous we just couldn’t pass it up! If all MS63’s looked like this PCGS specimen, we’d be happy to buy them all up! It’s that amazing for the grade. |
$47.25 |
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1904-O/O VAM 10A PCGS MS64 (Lot 7057)
Attention Die State aficionados. Here’s a simply amazing coin with a unique shattered reverse die. And there’s more. It’s the only Repunched Mintmark I see listed among the more than forty cataloged 1904-O varieties. The mintmark is doubled at the bottom right, and the shattered die is particularly acute between the “ST” of STATES and the wing. Most importantly, this may be the first time the VAM 10A has been offered for sale. In addition, the example here may well be the finest known specimen of this R-6 rarity. Welcome to this super variety in a spectacular grade. |
$140.63 |
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1921-P VAM 21 ANACS MS61 (Lot 7059)
The bottom edges of the stars to the left of the date on this variety show doubling toward the rim, which is indicative of a doubled die. We cannot recall seeing another VAM 21 in the marketplace, and Van Allen’s R-5 rarity rating signifies his opinion that this variety is far from common. In any case, the specimen here is a no-question Unc with golden toning on both sides and remarkably few contact marks for an MS61. In fact, there is only one bag mark worth noting on the obverse, so it isn’t exactly clear why ANACS graded this one as low as they did. Most importantly, this unusual 1921-P variety is priced cheap. |
$22.50 |
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1921-P PCGS Sample Slab No Grade (Lot 7060)
Here’s one you’ve probably never seen, since we haven’t either! It’s a PCGS Promotion Slab of the type they gave out originally with no-value cents, nickels, dimes and occasionally quarters. But this holder contains a U.S. silver dollar, and it’s the first we’ve encountered! No, it’s not worth a fortune, but for those VAM guys who like to pick up Morgan dollar related memorabilia, this may be a one-time opportunity. |
$106.88 |
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1921 Peace Dollar VAM 1H PCGS MS62 (Lot 7061)
Struck from Satin Proof Dies. The excitement here is that after new dies were first used to strike so-called Satin Proofs in the Arts & Medals back room, they were taken out to the main coining room to be used for circulation strikes. The VAM 1H is the result. What do you look for? There are fine diagonal polishing lines around “OD WE” in GOD WE, as well as under the “T” of TRUST and under the last “1” in the date. The popularity of these specimens took off after their discovery, and now they’re on the Hit List of many Peace dollar specialists. And we should add that this eye-catching example is in a PCGS holder. |
$337.50 |
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1923-P VAM 1F NGC MS61 (Lot 7062)
The 1923-P “Chin Bar” variety displays what is considered the longest die gouge in the Peace dollar series. It is so dramatic and so popular that it had to be included in the HOT 50 listings. However, the variety itself is easily obtained. For a price, VAM 1F specimens are available in the marketplace all the way up through MS63. So, the object is to not accept over-graded, inferior specimens. That’s why slabbed examples of Premium Quality are recommended. The coin offered here is certainly outstanding for the grade with luster on both sides that “screams” out MS63 or MS64. |
$39.38 |
| 1-40 | 41-42 | |
*Price includes the buyers premium.
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