Can 1885-O Morgan VAM ‘Belly Button’ Be Made Into Jewelry? A Crafter’s Guide
April 20, 2026Finding 1885-O Morgan VAM ‘Belly Button’ in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide
April 20, 2026
Historical Significance
The 1885-O Morgan Dollar stands as a testament to American coinage history, struck at the storied New Orleans Mint during a period of silver abundance in the American West. This particular specimen, bearing the distinctive “Belly Button” variety (VAM-24), emerged from a fascinating production anomaly that has intrigued collectors for generations.
The New Orleans Mint, operating from 1838 to 1909, played a pivotal role in American numismatics. The 1885-O Morgan Dollar was produced during the silver boom following the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which mandated government silver purchases for coinage. With a mintage of 17,787,000 pieces, this date remains relatively common in circulated grades, yet the “Belly Button” variety commands special attention from discerning collectors.
Identifying Key Markers
The “Belly Button” variety earns its nickname from a distinctive recessed area in the eagle’s breast on the reverse—a result of metal failing to fully fill the deepest portion of the die during striking. This consistent feature across known specimens indicates a specific die issue rather than a random striking error.
Key identifying features include:
- A prominent “belly button” depression in the eagle’s breast
- A characteristic die crack running from the left star to above the U in “UNITED”
- The O mint mark positioned approximately correctly for VAM-24 attribution
- Potential scratch marks visible on some specimens, possibly from attempts to remove the die chip
The consistency of these markers across multiple specimens confirms this as a genuine die variety. Collectors should pay particular attention to the die crack, as it appears on all known examples and serves as a reliable identifier.
Market Analysis and Value Considerations
While the 1885-O is the most common of all New Orleans Mint silver dollars in Uncirculated grades, the “Belly Button” variety commands a premium due to its unique characteristics. The estimated population in various grades provides valuable context:
MS-60 to 62: 2.5 to 3.5 million coins
MS-63: 800,000 to 1,300,000 coins
MS-64: 400,000 to 600,000 coins
MS-65 or better: 100,000 to 175,000 coins
Despite this relative abundance, the “Belly Button” variety’s premium status means collectors should expect to pay 20-50% more than for a standard 1885-O Morgan Dollar, depending on grade and eye appeal.
Where to Buy
For collectors seeking to add this variety to their collection, several purchasing avenues offer different advantages and risks:
Major Coin Shows and Conventions
Attending major coin shows provides the opportunity to examine multiple specimens in person. The American Numismatic Association’s World’s Fair of Money and regional coin shows often feature numerous dealers specializing in Morgan Dollars. The advantage here is the ability to compare specimens side-by-side and negotiate directly with dealers.
Reputable Online Marketplaces
Platforms like Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, and Stack’s Bowers offer extensive selections with detailed photography and authentication. These venues provide buyer protection and the ability to research realized prices for similar specimens. However, buyers should be prepared for buyer’s premiums and shipping costs.
Specialized VAM Dealers
Dealers who specialize in Morgan Dollar varieties often have the expertise to properly attribute and price “Belly Button” specimens. While their prices may be higher, the expertise and authentication they provide can be worth the premium, especially for less experienced collectors.
Red Flags to Watch For
When purchasing an 1885-O “Belly Button” Morgan Dollar, several potential issues require careful attention:
Misattribution
Some sellers may incorrectly attribute standard 1885-O Morgans as “Belly Button” varieties. The key is to verify the presence of the characteristic die crack and the distinctive “belly button” depression. If these features are not clearly visible in photographs or in person, proceed with caution.
Artificial Alteration
Be wary of coins where the “belly button” appears artificially enhanced or where the die crack seems inconsistent with known examples. Professional authentication is crucial for higher-value specimens.
Overgrading
Uncertified coins may be overgraded by sellers. The “Belly Button” variety’s unique appearance can sometimes lead to subjective grading opinions. Consider purchasing certified examples for higher-value transactions.
Negotiating Tips
Successful negotiation for a “Belly Button” Morgan Dollar requires preparation and strategy:
Research Recent Sales
Study completed auction prices for comparable specimens to establish a reasonable price range. Pay attention to grade, eye appeal, and certification when comparing prices.
Consider the Seller’s Situation
Dealers at coin shows may be more motivated to negotiate near the end of the event. Online sellers with inventory costs may be more flexible on price for slower-moving varieties.
Bundle Purchases
If you’re purchasing multiple coins or planning future purchases, dealers may offer better pricing for establishing a relationship or making larger transactions.
Raw vs. Slabbed Considerations
The decision between purchasing raw (uncertified) or slabbed (certified) specimens involves several factors:
Raw Coins
Advantages:
– Lower initial cost
– Potential for discovering under-attributed varieties
– No grading fees built into the price
Disadvantages:
– Risk of misattribution
– No third-party authentication
– Potential difficulty in resale
Slabbed Coins
Advantages:
– Guaranteed authentication
– Professional grading opinion
– Easier resale potential
– Often eligible for third-party guarantees
Disadvantages:
– Higher initial cost
– Grading fees included in price
– Less potential for discovery
For the “Belly Button” variety, slabbed examples from PCGS or NGC are generally recommended, especially for coins valued over $200. The premium for certification is typically justified by the authentication and grading certainty it provides.
Authentication and Certification
Given the “Belly Button” variety’s popularity and the potential for misidentification, professional authentication is crucial. The two leading third-party grading services, PCGS and NGC, both recognize this variety, though their attribution practices may differ. When purchasing certified examples, verify that the variety attribution is clearly noted on the holder.
For raw coins, consider submitting potentially valuable specimens to a grading service. The cost of authentication and grading is often offset by the increased confidence in the purchase and potential value enhancement.
Investment Potential
The “Belly Button” variety represents an interesting niche within the Morgan Dollar series. While common date 1885-O Morgans are relatively abundant, the unique characteristics of this variety provide some insulation against market fluctuations that affect more generic examples. The variety’s established collector base and the consistency of the die markers suggest stable long-term interest.
However, collectors should approach this variety primarily from a collecting perspective rather than pure investment. The premiums commanded by this variety are based on collector demand rather than fundamental rarity, making them somewhat vulnerable to shifts in collecting trends.
Conclusion
The 1885-O Morgan Dollar “Belly Button” variety offers collectors an accessible entry point into the world of Morgan Dollar varieties. Its relative abundance in lower grades, combined with the distinctive and consistent die markers, makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced variety collectors.
Success in acquiring this variety depends on careful research, attention to detail, and working with reputable sellers. Whether you choose raw or certified examples, understanding the key markers and market dynamics will help you make informed purchasing decisions. Remember that the true value of this variety lies not just in its market price but in its connection to the rich history of American coinage and the fascinating story of the New Orleans Mint.
As with any specialized collecting area, building relationships with knowledgeable dealers and other collectors will enhance your collecting experience and improve your ability to identify quality specimens at fair prices. The “Belly Button” Morgan Dollar represents not just a coin, but a piece of numismatic history waiting to be appreciated by the next generation of collectors.
Related Resources
You might also find these related articles helpful:
- Can 1885-O Morgan VAM ‘Belly Button’ Be Made Into Jewelry? A Crafter’s Guide – Understanding the 1885-O Morgan ‘Belly Button’ Variety As a passionate coin collector and jewelry maker, I&#…
- Preserving Your 1885-O Morgan Dollar: The ‘Belly Button’ Variety and Proper Conservation – Historical Significance Few coins tell a richer story than the 1885-O Morgan Dollar. Struck at the New Orleans Mint duri…
- Grading the 1885-O Morgan ‘Belly Button’: The Difference Between $10 and $1,000 – Introduction: The Mystery of the ‘Belly Button’ Morgan Condition is everything in numismatics. When examinin…
