1891 Morgan VAM 102a double ear/mustache

[Matthudson]

Saw a listing for this VAM variety: 1891 VAM 102a double ear AND mustache. Is this such a variety?

I see doubling on the ear, but no sign on the mustache, which looks quite like a cleft-palate on the specimens I found online.

[Paul]

"Saw a listing for this VAM variety: 1891 VAM 102a double ear AND mustache. Is this such a variety?"

??

[Matthudson]

??

I am researching online and finding that there are countless catalogued die varieties of many coins, and here, especially Morgan Dollars - classified as VAMs.

I'd like to know, if the experts can also see the doubling on the ear, that I see, and if this 1891 Morgan Dollar is of a special VAM variety that may have special value to collectors. The specimen I saw also shows a mustache, which resembles a hairlip, I can only identify a tiny inkling of it at the top of the lip at best.

[Triple C]

I'm no expert, but based on the pictures provided, I don't see the die break on the upper lip.

Here is the link to compare:
http://ec2-13-58-222-16.us-east-2.compu ... 1-P_VAM-2A

Best of luck!

[Matthudson]

I'm no expert, but based on the pictures provided, I don't see the die break on the upper lip.

Me either. I was wondering if any Morgan Dollar fans had any insight to a similar variety and could attribute it accordingly.

[Matthudson]

I don't see the die break on the upper lip.

Here is the link to compare:
http://ec2-13-58-222-16.us-east-2.compu ... 1-P_VAM-2A

Okay, without the 'stasch it's just a VAM 2:

"1. 1891 VAM-2 Double Ear. This variety has a fantastically doubled earlobe. When it is encountered, be sure to check Liberty's upper lip for a die break. If the break is present, the coin is a VAM-2A, a much more rare variety. The normal VAM-2 is available in high grade mint state examples without too much hunting."

I even googled "1891 VAM 2A - did it match Wiki? No, of course not. I was directed to a site to compare car insurance offers!

http://ec2-13-58-222-16.us-east-2.compu ... 91-P_VAM-2

[Paul]

Your image number 7 posted here, is a little blurry when I expand it…
Is it possible to get me some closer better images of that lower earlobe please?

[Matthudson]

Your image number 7 posted here, is a little blurry when I expand it…
Is it possible to get me some closer better images of that lower earlobe please?

I'm afraid not, Paul. As for my camera, this is all the juice she's got in her. It's already at the macro setting under fluorescent light. Any tighter and the camera blows focus. These pics are the best of about 60 I took trying to capture the elusive trait. For me, it is definitely doubled. I have two other of the date, PCGS slabbed that make it easy to distinguish. You're gonna have to take my scout's honor on this one, or pop over with your microscope for a burger and a plate of fries!

[Paul]

I believe you.....

Unfortunately, my private jet is out of commission right now, it needs a new
"UPPER FLAM SHOOTER" , and of course, it's on backorder....... so I won't be able to pop over for a burger and fries.

[Matthudson]

No worries, I just won a pan-pac octagonal 50-dollar on eBay for $300. I'll sell it quick and send a helicopter for you.

[Paul]

Just make sure I can get my wheelchair in it

[Matthudson]

Just make sure I can get my wheelchair in it

Absolutely!