| Showing All VAMquest Auction lots (1 to 40) |
| Lot Image |
Lot Name (Lot #)
Description |
Price Realized* |
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1878 7-TF Rev79 VAM 221 PCGS MS63 (Lot 15003)
Generally speaking, there are four different Reverse Types for silver dollars struck in 1878. Namely, there is the 8-TF Reverse, the so-called 7/8-TF Reverse, the 7-TF Reverse with flat breast “B” Reverse, and the 7-TF with raised, round breast “C” Reverse. This last Reverse Type, often called the “Reverse of ’79,” is the one offered here. And best of all, this is a PCGS high grade example with outstanding luster. |
$157.50 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 100 PCGS MS62 (Lot 14005)
This TOP 100 variety is particularly interesting because it is the only 7-TF variety with an 8-TF Type I obverse. For attribution purposes, the tops of the letters in E PLURIBUS UNUM on the obverse show clear doubling toward the rim. There are other diagnostics, as well, but this feature is considered the key identifier. As for the grade, if this specimen were broken out of its holder, it would undoubtedly be sold as an MS63 or MS64 at any coin show. The luster is super and the overall look is extremely high grade. And conservative grading by PCGS adds to its charm. |
$78.75 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 113 ANACS MS63 (Lot 8010)
For those who are attempting to put together a complete 7-TF Set, the VAM 113 often results in a dilemma. It is currently obtainable in VF up through AU circulated grades, but it is rarely available in strict BU grades. That’s why this specimen is so special! And MS63 is basically top-of-the-line. |
$129.38 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 122 ANACS AU55 (Lot OD018)
Think about it. When was the last time you saw another VAM 122? Certainly not in a great while! The 1878 7-TF Set contains many interesting varieties, but few are scarcer than the VAM 122, with its diagnostic doubling above the “R” of PLURIBUS. How rare is it? Coins that grade AU are rare, and BU specimens either do not exist or are so elusive as to be unknown. In twenty-five years, we don’t recall ever seeing a BU VAM 122 offered for sale. This lustrous specimen should fill an important slot in the collection of the lucky buyer.
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$151.88 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 131 ANACS MS62 (Lot 11006)
Van Allen cataloged the one known 1878 7-TF Proof die pair as the VAM 131, but there are a number of different VAM 131 sub-varieties, including the VAM 131, 131A, 131B and 131C. The beautiful specimen offered here is a VAM 131, with blazing luster that’s far above average for this variety. |
$39.38 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 142 ANACS MS63 (Lot 8013)
This 1878 7-TF variety has what is known as a B2-b Reverse, which simply means the “R” in TRUST is full, but the “O” in God is broken. VAMs 140 up to VAM 146 all have this reverse. The VAM 142 is interesting because the obverse is a nice doubled die. In any case, there is a run on MS63 7-TF varieties, since so many are unknown in the higher BU grades. This example is particularly desirable. |
$106.88 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 146 PCGS MS64 (Lot 8014)
The VAM 146, which also has a B2-b reverse, can easily be identified by the diagonal line running across “ER” in LIBERTY. Grade is important, and the VAM 146, like most 7-TF varieties, is seldom encountered in PCGS MS64 holders. (Greysheet is around $200 for any unslabbed 7-TF in MS64.) This specimen has very few marks and outstanding luster, which combine to make this an exciting VAMquest offering. |
$185.63 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 169 PCGS MS62 (Lot 15002)
The VAM 169 has everything going for it, starting with quadrupled stars on the obverse. Such a variety feature is quite unusual in the Morgan dollar series. Furthermore, the VAM 169 is a true rarity in BU. Indeed, it’s quite scarce in grades up through AU and it becomes almost impossible to find in true Mint State. This HOT 50 specimen shows bright luster and is exceedingly attractive. |
$619.88 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 171 PCGS MS62 (Lot 14006)
The 1878 7-TF VAM 171 is one of the superstars of the TOP 100 set. It was considered quite rare when the original TOP 100 book was written and it has remained a rarity in the 7-TF set. But there’s more to the VAM 171 than just its rarity. The obverse die is tripled, with the three distinct notches on the lower left serif of “R” in PLURIBUS. In fact, much of Liberty’s head-dress shows strong doubling. And guess how many specimens have been graded by PCGS in MS63 or better? The answer is a total of only three! This lustrous coin is condition census and would be one of the centerpieces of any 7-TF set. |
$704.25 |
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1878 7-TF VAM 185A ANACS MS61 (Lot 14007)
In anticipation of the release of the 7-TF Attribution Guide, it seems that every 7-TF specimen that enters the marketplace is being gobbled up. This heavy demand is particularly evident in Mint State grades. The VAM 185 offered here is a VAM 185A, which is one of the known sub-varieties. Called the “Spike Above Eyelid” variety, this specimen is a no-question Unc, which is quite attractive and is conservatively graded. |
$91.13 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 20 PCGS MS62 (Lot 8006)
PCGS was brutal when they graded this gorgeous specimen. In our opinion, if this were a raw coin at your local coin show, you’d expect to pay MS64 money for it! Anyway, we consider the VAM 20 variety the “sleeper” of the A2/Ax portion of the 8-TF set, and it’s highly desirable from a collecting standpoint. Want the best MS62 VAM 20 money can buy? This frosty PCGS specimen may be it! |
$365.63 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 39 ANACS MS63 (Lot 8007)
The VAM 39 may be the most under-rated of the known 7/8-TF (strong) varieties. In fact, a coin such as this would be an “upgrade” for just about every VAM collection. This variety is seldom encountered, and when found, often has problems or is heavily bagmarked. That’s why the specimen offered here is such a breath of fresh air. As for the variety, the VAM 39 exhibits five extra bold TF tips on the reverse, and is a “Strong” 7/8-TF variety in the parlance of PCGS. This VAM 39 is also heavily clashed, so Van Allen would call it a VAM 39A. Overall, this wonderful example is everything a collector could want in an MS63. |
$343.13 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 42 NGC MS63 (Lot 15001)
Only two so-called 7/8-TF varieties show all seven of the underlying tail-feather tips on the eagle, the VAM 41 and this variety, the VAM 42. The VAM 41 was included in the TOP 100 listings, and the VAM 42 is an important part of the HOT 50. What’s exciting here is the fact that this coin is in a premium MS63 holder. Most collectors don’t realize that true MS64 examples are rarely available and prohibitively expensive, so NGC MS63 is near top-of-the-line and super desirable. |
$348.75 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 42(A) NGC MS63 (Lot 9009)
It’s hard to resist a 7/8-TF variety with a full row of extra TF tips under the eagle’s tail-feathers on the reverse. That’s why PCGS puts “Strong” on its labels to identify varieties like this. And the NGC label for this coin says “VAM 42 7/7 TF” meaning there are 7 extra TF tips visible below the eagle’s TFs, which is the maximum number possible. And for you die state fanatics, it’s also worth mentioning that there are amazing die cracks that run around the periphery on the reverse that are simply incredible. What about grade? This PQ coin, with its nice detail lustrous surfaces, fits nicely at the top end of the MS63 grade. |
$225.00 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 42(A) PCI MS62 (Lot 12012)
This no-question Brilliant Uncirculated example of the VAM 42 was graded MS62 because of contact marks on the obverse. But it’s otherwise a respectable specimen of this popular 7/8-TF variety. The VAM 42 shows a whole second row of extra TF tips and is therefore included in the PCGS “Strong 7/8TF” category. This example shows a strong clash on the obverse (don’t they all!), and is currently attributed as a VAM 42A. Priced to sell. |
$146.25 |
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1878 7/8-TF VAM 45 ANACS MS63 DMPL (Lot 10013)
The VAM 45 is one of the few “sleepers” left In the sixteen-coin major variety set of 7/8-TF VAMs. It doesn’t show any extra tail-feathers, and it is one of the few B/A Reverse varieties that remain neglected. But there’s no doubt that it’s ultra-rare! In fact, we haven’t encountered an unattributed VAM 45 is more than two years. Furthermore, we don’t recall seeing another MS63 DMPL specimen of the VAM 45 offered for sale in a couple of decades! |
$506.25 |
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1878 7/8TF VAM 30 NGC MS64 DMPL (Lot OD086)
This breath-taking 1878 7/8TF VAM 30 starts a run of spectacular 7/8TF varieties that are rarely, if ever, seen in these grades. The VAM 30 offered here, like the next lot, has a peripheral band of golden brown toning that serves to accent the coin’s incredible eye appeal. Want one of the finest known specimens of this popular 7/8TF variety? Well, here’s the opportunity! Indeed, it would be hard to find a better specimen than this one, with its deep mirrors on both sides and its lustrous devices! (Note: After a series of price increases, the Greysheet price is now $1600 for any non-variety 7TF MS64 DMPL.) |
$1,068.75 |
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1878 7/8TF VAM 31 NGC MS64 (Lot OD087)
Talk about “good looks.” This 1878 7/8TF VAM 31 would certainly be one of the more dazzling coins in anyone’s collection! The golden brown toning around the periphery highlights the frosty white devices and the smooth lustrous fields. And the resulting eye appeal is simply amazing! That said, the VAM 3 itself is special. It is not ultra-rare in grades up through MS63, but in NGC MS64 this “Doubled Legs” variety is top-of-the-line! |
$337.50 |
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1878 7/8TF VAM 38 PCGS MS62 (Lot 18007)
Compared with the other coins in the auction, we wouldn’t give the VAM 38 a second look, except that it’s a so-called “strong” 7/8TF in a PCGS holder. The surfaces reflect full cartwheel luster and the devices are frosty. How good is it? There’s little doubt this specimen would qualify for someone else’s MS63 grade or better. |
$140.63 |
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1878 7/8TF VAM 39 NGC MS64 (Lot 17007)
Here’s the inside word regarding the 1878 7/8TF VAM 39 – It’s the only 7/8TF that has been selected for the upcoming HIT LIST 40. This variety, which shows five strong tips under the eagle’s tail-feathers, is very scarce in all grades. But what most collectors don’t know is that the VAM 39 is basically impossible to find in grades better than MS63 (which is the grade of this cataloger’s own specimen!). That makes this white lustrous MS64 specimen that much more desirable. |
$455.63 |
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1878 7/8TF VAM 40 ANACS MS63 DMPL (Lot OD094)
Talk about a high grade! This cataloger looked for years to find a VAM 40 in MS63 DMPL, and finally had to settle for an MS63 PL. Here, the contrast between the field and the devices is excellent, and the variety detail is needle-sharp. And tilt this silver dollar under a light, and the mirrors jump off the surface! In today’s marketplace, this specimen is lots of coin for the money! |
$703.13 |
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1878 7/8TF VAM 45 PCGS MS61 (Lot 17008)
This rare coin came out of an MS62 “DMPL” holder, so not only was the final grade a disappointment, but also the lack of DMPL designation. In any case, like most 1878 7/TF VAM 45 examples, this one has highly reflective surfaces, which is not mentioned on the slab. Worth mentioning is our quick-and-easy method of identifying this super rare bird. If you see three diagonal die gouges running from K1 to K7 on the eagle’s tail-feathers, it’s a VAM 45. This one is so conservatively graded, that if all MS61’s looked like this, we’d start recommending MS61s! |
$354.38 |
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1878 7TF VAM 187 ANACS AU55 (Lot 18012)
An 1878-P 7TF book is in the works, but until it is released, the 7-TF Set hasn’t quite hit its stride. But watch out for the demand when the book is released! One of the varieties that’s already recognized as a major component of the set is the VAM 187, which is part of the HOT 50. This variety, which shows dramatic doubling of the “R” in PLURIBUS, is on everyone’s Hit List. The specimen here shows only the barest traces of wear, with nice luster and lots of detail. |
$214.88 |
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1878 7TF VAM 79 PCGS MS63 PL (Lot 18010)
The VAM 79 is generally considered the superstar of the 7-TF varieties with B1 Reverse. Yes, the VAM 70 is the TOP 100 listing, but it turns out that the VAM 79 is rarer. Not surprisingly, demand for the VAM 79 has far out-strips supply. There’s light contact on Liberty’s cheek and neck, but it hardly detracts from the reflective fields and the frosty devices. The reverse would grade MS64 or 65, and overall this is a more than presentable specimen of this scarce variety. |
$427.50 |
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1878 7TF VAM 83 ANACS MS64 DMPL (Lot OD099)
Years ago, the 1878 7-TF varieties with B1 Reverse would hardly get a second glance, but since PCGS lists them separately in their Registry, collectors have started to focus on the B1 Set. And what better way to get one’s feet wet than to acquire an MS64 DMPL specimen! The mirrors on this VAM 83 are exceedingly deep, Liberty is white and frosty, and the contrast is second to none. And oh yes, there are hardly any marks on this example. To sum things up, this 7-TF specimen is at the top of the ladder in terms of quality. For a hint of its value, check out the current Greysheet. |
$731.25 |
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1878 7TF VAM 84 PCGS MS64 (Lot 17009)
If you find an 1878 7TF Morgan dollar with a B1 Reverse (Long Center Arrow Shaft), it’s more than likely a VAM 84. It is easily identified by the horizontal line under the first “8” of the date, and the broken “D” of DOLLAR on the reverse. The fact is that this variety is quite common in all grades up to MS63. Here is a PCGS MS64 specimen with a minimum of marks, but subdued luster on the obverse, and splotchy toning overlaying the reverse. Not my favorite coin! (Note: Price wise, the Greysheet lists any raw 78-P 7TF at $185 Bid/ $215 in MS64.) |
$135.00 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-10 SEGS MS64 (Lot 8003)
Each year, the VAM 14-10 seems to generate more and more respect, and the latest publication from Van Allen now lists it as an R-6! In this auction, we offer a third specimen from the SEGS traveling set of 8-TFs from the early days of the specialty. I did the attribution only, but the grade looks about MS63. In any case, the luster is great for a VAM 14-10, the detail is needle-sharp, and the reverse would easily make MS65. So overall, this attractive “A-list” variety would be quite an acquisition for any collector. |
$466.88 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-16 NGC AU55 PL (Lot 8004)
Here is a legendary variety that should get the heart fluttering in legions of VAM collectors. It’s a relatively high grade 8-TF VAM 14-16 in an NGC holder. How good is the grade? How about AU55 Proof-Like! Spectacular doubling on Liberty’s profile makes the VAM 14.16 particularly desirable. Here, deep mirrors are visible on both sides of the coin, and there is only the barest wear in the obverse fields. It was difficult for the owner to part with this one, but such a VAM 14.16 as this should find a home in one of the top VAM collections. |
$1,361.25 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-5 SEGS AU50 (Lot 8001)
The VAM 14-5 is considered one of the ultra-rarities in the 8-TF set, and the finest known specimens only grade AU. (There is an ANACS MS60, but if it’s the one I saw years ago, it’s only AU58!) In any case, the VAM 14.5 offered here was part of the SEGS traveling 8-TF display in the late 1990’s. I did the attributions, and SEGS did all the grading for their Signature Holders. As for this VAM 14-5 example, there’s significant contact on the surfaces, so in my view it wouldn’t make AU today. But the coin is nevertheless an important rarity with an unbelievably low Minimum Bid in this auction. In fact, it would be dirt cheap at twice the price! |
$534.38 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 14-9 SEGS AU50 (cleaned) (Lot 8002)
As one of the superstars of the 8-TF variety set, the VAM 14-9 is ultra-rare in all grades, and is missing from all but the top VAM sets. Here, it’s in a SEGS Signature Holder, where I did the attribution, but not the grading. Actually, this VAM 14-9 is a reasonably good place-holder for this major rarity, until you encounter (if ever!) a pristine PCGS specimen. The surfaces are reflective, and there’s lots of detail. |
$590.63 |
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1878 8-TF VAM 15 ANACS MS63 PL (Lot 10002)
There are MS63’s, and then there are MS63’s! This example of the rare 8TF VAM 15 has amazing eye appeal. The central devices on both obverse and reverse are ultra frosty, and the mirrors would have been a shoe-in for DMPL a couple of years ago. Yes, this cataloger is impressed with the specimen offered here, but it’s the price that will please you. |
$562.50 |
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1878 8TF VAM 10 PCGS MS63 (Lot 18003)
The 8TF VAM 10 always draws attention when it comes up at auction. In the first place, it’s seldom encountered, so there’s always a pent up demand for this variety. And secondly, examples tend to be quite attractive, so collectors refuse to part with specimens of this caliber. An MS63 specimen is currently (5/25/08) listed on EBay with bids up to $263 with two days to go. A Proof-like obverse and semi Proof-like reverse make this specimen one of the best we’ve seen. Nice contrast and a frosty cheek on Liberty completes the picture. |
$383.63 |
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1878 8TF VAM 14-3 NGC MS64 DPL (Lot 14003)
As a variety, the 8TF VAM 14-3 is particularly interesting, as its pedigree goes all the way back to the first 8TF Proof dies. Records show that during the first week of Morgan dollar production, one hundred Proofs were produced, and research has shown these to be VAM 14-3. Then, the same dies were employed to strike silver dollars for circulation purposes. The specimen offered here is one of the circulation strikes struck from Proof dies. This historically significant piece is in an NGC MS64 Deep Mirror Proof-Like holder, which represents an amazing grade for any 8TF Morgan, but is especially important here. Would you believe the Greysheet lists standard 8TFs in MS64 DMPL at $4,160! |
$2,925.00 |
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1878 8TF VAM 14.10 PCGS MS62 (Lot 18005)
The next die stage of the VAM 14.1 reverse offered in the last lot is the super rare VAM 14.10. These rarely, if ever, show up in the marketplace, and when they do, the price is commensurate with their extreme rarity. And they certainly aren’t found in PCGS MS62 holders. In terms of condition, this VAM 14.10 is white on both sides, with excellent luster. There’s one mark below Liberty’s chin, or this would be a PQ MS63 example and topping the pop report! And the reverse is semi Proof-like. Super nice for the grade! |
$652.50 |
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1878 8TF VAM 18 PCGS MS63 (Lot 17002)
Here’s a case where the grade and the slab may be more important than the variety. Yes, the 1878 VAM 18 is not one of the major rarities of the 8TF Set, but have you noticed the market for any 8TF specimen in MS63 has skyrocketed over the last six or seven years. In the 1990’s, nice MS63 8TF examples were bought and sold around $50. Now the Greysheet lists them at $132 Bid/ $142 Ask, and believe me, that’s NOT for PCGS MS63 specimens! We’ve seen them run as high as $275. So, hand picked specimens appear to be quite a bargain at less than $150! This VAM 18 is not only super attractive, but it would probably be graded MS64 in most other slabs. |
$219.38 |
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1878 8TF VAM 20 ANACS MS63 (Lot 18006)
This HOT 50 variety is on everyone’s radar. The doubling on the date is dramatic, but most importantly, it is the rarest of three 8TF varieties which share this spectacular obverse. All are desirable, but the VAM 20 is far and away the most desirable. Just a hint of caramel toning at the rim on the Proof-Like reverse is the only color on the coin. Some contact on the cheek is noticeable, but over-all this lustrous specimen is top of the line. By the way, we’ve only seen two MS64 specimens in thirty years! |
$304.88 |
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1878 8TF VAM 21 PCGS MS63 (Lot 17003)
Like the preceding lot, the 1878 8TF VAM 21 offered here is considered by some investors to be an investment vehicle. The reason is that the value of a PCGS MS63 may not be fully recognized in today’s marketplace. To lump it together with MS63’s of most other grading services is a mistake, and yet that’s how many collectors still look at it. In any case, the cost of the PCGS slab ($25) and the attribution on the label ($20) plus postage and insurance total up to almost $50. Finally, take into account that all MS63’s are not created equal, and it’s easy to see that 8TF Morgan dollars in PCGS MS63 holders like this one may be a great way to go! |
$256.50 |
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1878 8TF VAM 22 NGC MS64 (Lot 14004)
This 8TF VAM 22 specimen is essentially top-of-the-line. Another example in an NGC MS64 holder was recently described on EBay as the finest known and offered for well over $1000! In any case, the VAM 22 in MS64 is an important HOT 50 listing. The key diagnostic here is the unique over-polishing of “LIB” in LIBERTY. So, for collectors interested in upgrading their HOT 50 sets, here is an attractive, under-priced VAM 22. |
$495.00 |
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1878 8TF VAM 5 PCGS MS63 (Lot 17001)
What a great way to start VAMquest Auction #17! Here we offer an MS63 example of the legendary 1878-P VAM 5, a variety that is not only a key component of the 8TF Set, but is also an important member of the TOP 100 listings. And the grade is not just MS63, its PCGS MS63! We recently got an email asking why this variety is so hard to find, and the answer is clear when you see the huge die crack that circles the obverse. Simply put, soon after this die pair was installed in the coining press, the obverse die must have broken while it was still striking coins with full Proof-Like surfaces! This gorgeous VAM 5 specimen will certainly be the centerpiece of someone’s first-rate VAM collection. |
$1,068.75 |
| 1-40 | 41-80 | 81-120 | 121-160 | 161-200 | 201-240 | 241-280 | 281-320 | 321-360 | 361-400 | 401-440 | 441-480 | 481-520 | 521-560 | 561-600 | 601-619 | |
*Price includes the buyers premium.
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