The 1880-S Morgan Silver Dollar VAM 12, known as the “8/7 Checkmark,” is a distinct variety of the Morgan Dollar struck at the San Francisco Mint. This variety is identified by the repunched date where the “7” in the date is repunched over the “8,” creating a unique doubled appearance on the reverse side of the coin. The “Checkmark” aspect refers to the shape of the repunch, which resembles a checkmark in the digits’ overlap. VAM varieties like the 12 are part of a comprehensive cataloging system created by Leroy Van Allen and A. George Mallis, documenting die variations and errors in Morgan dollars, which are highly prized by collectors for their uniqueness and historical interest.

The 1880-S VAM 12 was struck from a mintage of approximately 8.9 million coins and is well-represented among Morgan Dollar collectors but still retains significant value, especially in higher grades. The medium “S” mintmark distinguishes it from other 1880 varieties, and VAM 12 is especially noted for its clear die markers, making it a favorite for specialists. Coins with this variety graded MS64 by PCGS with original green holder (OGH) certification highlight both quality and provenance, appealing to collectors who seek substantial eye appeal and verified authenticity.

Prooflike (PL) Morgan dollars like the 1880-S VAM 12 often display mirrored or shiny surfaces on the obverse or reverse due to special die polishing during minting, increasing their desirability. The MS64 grade implies the coin is in Mint State condition with strong luster, attractive surfaces, and only minor imperfections visible under magnification. A prooflike coin with this grade can command premiums over standard Mint State examples because of its enhanced aesthetic appeal and rarity among circulating struck coins.

Collectors value the 1880-S VAM 12 not just for the variety’s distinctive repunched date, but also for the historical context of Morgan dollars, which are emblematic of late 19th-century American coinage. The San Francisco Mint produced many prized Morgans including rare and specialized varieties, making the 1880-S VAM 12 an important and desirable variety for dedicated collectors. Coins authenticated and graded by reputable services like PCGS further add to the collectible allure by offering assurance of quality and uniqueness.

In summary, the 1880-S Morgan Silver Dollar VAM 12 with the 8/7 Checkmark variety in PCGS MS64 OGH represents a blend of numismatic rarity, beauty, and confirmed provenance. Its repunched date feature and prooflike quality make it a standout among Morgan dollar varieties, cherished by collectors for both artistic significance and historical importance within the expansive Morgan series.