1882-S Morgan With Unusual Mint Mark. OMM?
PocketArt
Posts: 1,335 ✭✭✭✭✭
I was cataloging my raw Morgans last night and got sidetracked looking for VAM's. This 1882-S caught my eye because of the unusual artifact located in the lower left of the nook of the "S." My first thoughts were perhaps a die gouge; but, I'm wondering if this could be the remains of a faint "O," or maybe a "C" because of its conspicuous location? IDK- could it be a OMM variety? I know what I'd like it to be; however, I defer to the experts. Of course, the 1882-O/S comes to mind but this is a "S" over something? Did the San Francisco branch mint procure dies from other branch mints for production during this time?
There is doubling on the date- the "1" has doubling above the lower right of base of one. Maybe faint doubling on the second 8 in date. If anything, maybe this would be good for a new VAM. At the least, I don't see doubling like this on the "1" in the archives so holding out hope for a VAM. Obverse is PL, and the reverse has typical finish for business strike.
I did the best I could on photo's with the equipment I have- taped a loop over my Samsung 7 
I did try to photograph the "S" at different angles. I believe it may be a S/S.
Let me know what you think- should I send this girl out for variety determination? Maybe VAM, or, OMM? Something else?
Thanks- Rich.
Comments
Sharpen a toothpick with a razor blade or split one in half leaving a sliver point. See if the blob moves off the coin when you poke it. I've seen the horizontal die polish in the top of the "S" on other mintmarks, perhaps even an 1882-S. May even be a die chip. Nevertheless, IMO, not an OMM.
Looks like a small die chip to me also.
Die Chips can make you see strange things
They can- but helluva location for mirages...you guys could be right but if anything what are your thoughts on VAM designation? My other question. Thanks!
Sorry, I don't look up VAMS for most common dates...I leave that to the new guy in training who dumps my trash!
LOL. Only kidding about the trash.
LOL, no problem. If I was one of your new guy's I'd tell you where to stick it! Just kidding.
Looks like a die chip.
Successful Trades: Swampboy,
I agree with the die chip or something that could be removed by poking it with a stick.
As for the VAM number, that will depend on the date digits. There is strong doubling on the second 8, and probably on the 2 as well. While there are no 82-S VAMs that are worth a premium, that's where I'd start with an attribution. The mint mark is in the centered and upright position (i.e., normal).
Keeper of the VAM Catalog • Professional Coin Imaging • Prime Number Set • World Coins in Early America • British Trade Dollars • Variety Attribution
No OMM
- you are all correct. Popped off effortlessly with a toothpick. Never seen anything like that- thanks for advice, and will poke more in future. 
Well that was interesting... do you have a picture after it was removed?? And the 1 does appear to have a slight doubling or re-punch....Cheers, RickO
Per your request here's the aftermath ricko.....
Moving along, I went through all the VAM's for the 1882-S, and the closest match I have is VAM-13, doubled date. However; the "2" isn't as pronounced as the doubling on the VAM-13; but it is there; ever so slightly. Also, the doubling above the lower right base of "1" is different too and not a match. Interestingly; there does appear to be something above the one on base in photo in link for VAM-13 but probably not enough to confirm; unless an early die state? Here is link to VAM-13. http://www.vamworld.com/1882-S+VAM-13
The reverse mint-mark "S" is doubled, from what I can tell under loop so this doesn't match the VAM-13 designation but is closest in regards to the obverse. Here are pictures of the date, and individual numerals. Is my 1882-s something other? Thanks!
One
First "8."
Second "8."
Two
Great pics!
I'm thinking VAM 13.
Keeper of the VAM Catalog • Professional Coin Imaging • Prime Number Set • World Coins in Early America • British Trade Dollars • Variety Attribution