What VAM is this 1882 O/S AU55?

Spartcom5

Picked this up and on the PCGS label it says AU55 Weak and nothing else. What VAM do I have here? Any help is appreciated

messydesk

5

Spartcom5

Vam 5 eds?

messydesk

I don't think so. Once you can see the diagonal outline of the S, it's not an EDS. You have to basically just see a lump inside the O for the EDS.

Insider2

John.

I think the VAM guys have these O/S die states backward.

As I recall, coins with the strong diagonal are called EDS and the OP's (weak diagonal) is called LDS. This does not compute. Are there any studies of the die breaks that should prove I'm wrong?

DIMEMAN

@Insider2 said:
John.

I think the VAM guys have these O/S die states backward.

As I recall, coins with the strong diagonal are called EDS and the OP's (weak diagonal) is called LDS. This does not compute. Are there any studies of the die breaks that should prove I'm wrong?

This makes more sense to me. The clearer the "extra stuff" the earlier the die state (less die wear). JMHO

messydesk

@Insider2 said:
John.

I think the VAM guys have these O/S die states backward.

As I recall, coins with the strong diagonal are called EDS and the OP's (weak diagonal) is called LDS. This does not compute. Are there any studies of the die breaks that should prove I'm wrong?

Yes. Look at the die wear.

Insider2

Please, show me another example besides the O/S Morgans, when a PARTIAL letter on a coin becomes more complete and SHARPLY defined (straight sides of its relief) as the die is used.

I cannot help you as to the best of my knowledge, other examples DO NOT EXIST!

This topic was covered by David Lange in the numismatist magazine. AFAIK, Dave and I are the ONLY two professionals who have disputed this "status quo" nonsense in our writings.

I think it is time to correct another "error" in the VAM book (Micro "O" coins) starting right now in this thread.

Bring it on, While I don't have an open mind on this topic, I just may get educated and change my opinion.

messydesk

Look at the die wear on the rest of the coin.

Insider2

Thanks for the reply. The ONLY part of these coins we should be interested in is the side made with the reverse die.

messydesk

Ok. Look at the die wear on the reverse.

Insider2

I shall.