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The Certified 1883-O Morgan Silver Dollar graded MS62 by ANACS and attributed as VAM-36A is an impressive Mint State specimen that merges the historic charm of the Morgan dollar series with the specialized appeal of an identifiable die variety. Produced at the New Orleans Mint during a peak period of Morgan dollar coinage, this piece not only retains its full uncirculated status but also displays a dramatic die break that makes it highly desirable among VAM collectors. The VAM-36A variety is notable for its prominent retained cud on the reverse and a distinctive "far date" obverse alignment, giving it both visual and diagnostic significance. With an MS62 grade, this coin delivers uncirculated brilliance with moderate abrasions and excellent originality.
Struck in 1883, this coin is part of a mintage of 8,725,000 Morgan dollars from the New Orleans Mint, which was active from 1838 to 1909. The "O" mintmark, located beneath the eagle's tail on the reverse, designates its Southern origin. Morgan dollars from New Orleans are known for their mixed strike quality, and while many coins were produced, only a fraction have survived in high-grade, problem-free condition. The presence of the VAM-36A attribution adds a layer of rarity to this particular piece, as it identifies it as one of the small subset struck using a pair of dies that developed a dramatic reverse die break and unusual obverse date placement before retirement.
Designed by George T. Morgan, the coin’s obverse features a bust of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, encircled by the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” thirteen stars, and the date “1883.” In the VAM-36A variety, this date is placed unusually far to the right—a key diagnostic feature known as a "far date." In MS62 condition, Liberty's profile, including her cap, hair, and facial features, is well struck and fully preserved, although minor contact marks may be visible across her cheek and in the obverse fields. Despite these small flaws, the coin remains uncirculated and vibrant, with cartwheel luster and excellent design clarity.
The reverse of the coin showcases a powerful American bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch. Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “ONE DOLLAR.” The VAM-36A’s hallmark feature appears on this side: a dramatic retained cud or die break above and around the “O” mintmark, visible in the lower wreath area. A retained cud results when a portion of the die cracks and partially separates but remains in place, causing a raised, irregular lump of metal on the coin. This visual anomaly adds both character and rarity, making it a standout variety within the 1883-O series.
ANACS’s attribution of the VAM-36A designation verifies the coin’s identity using established criteria outlined by Leroy Van Allen and A. George Mallis, authors of the seminal VAM catalog. Collectors of Morgan dollar varieties prize coins like this for their clear and dramatic die markers. The cud is not a minor feature—it is large and easily visible without magnification, making the coin highly engaging even for non-specialists. Combined with the off-center date positioning on the obverse, this coin offers two distinct points of interest, both of which are captured in the official attribution.
The MS62 grade signifies a fully uncirculated coin with a solid strike and above-average eye appeal, but with more noticeable bag marks or abrasions than higher-grade Mint State coins. It is often considered the entry point for true Gem-level preservation while offering collectors a balance between condition and affordability. For VAM collectors, MS62 is a highly acceptable grade because the coin’s variety features—not perfect surfaces—are the central appeal. The reflective luster and lack of wear ensure the coin’s devices remain crisp, while the cud and date placement are undiminished and unmistakable.
Surfaces on this MS62 example may present with original silver brilliance or attractive peripheral toning, the result of long-term storage in mint bags or coin cabinets. Toning is often seen as an asset on VAM varieties, as it reinforces originality and can enhance contrast around the raised cud feature. The reverse cud on the VAM-36A often traps toning differently than the surrounding fields, helping it stand out further and drawing attention to its unusual, raised profile.
The popularity of the VAM-36A variety has grown steadily over the years, especially among collectors of Morgan die breaks and retained cuds, which are some of the most dramatic forms of die failure. The 1883-O VAM-36A is frequently included in educational displays, registry sets, and variety-specific collections due to its easily recognized diagnostics and relatively limited availability in higher grades. Coins that are certified and attributed by ANACS, a leader in VAM authentication, are especially prized because the attribution process ensures collector confidence and long-term value retention.
From a historical standpoint, this coin captures the challenges and realities of high-volume coin production in the late 19th century. Die life was pushed to its limits at mints like New Orleans, and the resulting die cracks and failures left behind these fascinating markers for today’s collectors. The 1883-O VAM-36A is a snapshot of such minting circumstances, showing both the artistry and imperfection inherent in mass coinage during America’s silver boom.
The Certified 1883-O Morgan Silver Dollar graded MS62 and attributed as VAM-36A by ANACS is an excellent combination of collectibility, preservation, and variety interest. With its dramatic retained cud, far date alignment, uncirculated status, and third-party verification, it appeals to both mainstream Morgan dollar collectors and the growing community of die variety specialists. This coin stands as a powerful reminder of the complexity and intrigue that continues to make the Morgan series one of the most beloved in all of American numismatics.