1921D VAM-1G Die Break Second S of STATES

Discovered by Jeff Oxman, September 1999 (Desirability:  )

Condition Census: 65P, 65N, 64P, 64P, 64N (Total: 24 MS, 35 Circ.)

The 1921-D VAM-1G has a spectacular die break on the reverse through the second S of STATES. Three different spikes have grown out of the top of the S. One die break emerges from the upper left side pointing back at the E. Another break curves out of the top and swoops to the right like a small hook. A final die break comes from the top and meets up with the serif. While other Morgan varieties exhibit breaks on this S, there is no other that matches it for its intricacy.

Early die state, horn just forming on the top of the S

Middle die state, horn forming and a crack seen below it swooping up toward the serif of the S

Late die state, break filled on the top of the second S

The VAM-1G die break expanded and progressed as the die continued to be used. It began as a small hook at the top of the S and then joined a second crack until the break a fully filled spike on top the letter.   Late die state fills should be bowed outward and show no depression in the center of the hooked break.

The late die state version looks to be much harder to find and will be work significantly more.

George Powell made a cool new find in July 2004. Look closely at the holes between the denticles above IBU (and other locations) and notice the field is dented down. Leroy Van Allen called the field "pushed in" and identifies it as die damage.  Very unusual!

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