1928-S VAM 3 Doubled Motto Peace Dollar Value and What Collectors Are Paying Today
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The 1928-S VAM 3 Doubled Motto Peace Dollar is worth anywhere from $40 in heavily worn condition to well over $1,500 or more in high mint state grades — and certain certified examples have sold for significantly higher at auction. If you pulled one of these silver dollars out of an old collection or found it tucked away in a drawer, you may be sitting on something worth a serious look.
What Makes the 1928-S VAM 3 So Special
The 1928-S Peace Dollar is already considered a key date in the Peace Dollar series, with relatively low mintage numbers compared to other years. But the VAM 3 variety takes things a step further.
VAM stands for Van Allen-Mallis, a reference system used to catalog die varieties on U.S. coins. The VAM 3 variety is identified by a clear doubling on the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the obverse of the coin. This doubling is visible under magnification and sometimes even with the naked eye under good lighting.
This kind of variety is exactly what die-hard variety collectors seek out. The combination of a key date coin with a notable doubled motto makes the 1928-S VAM 3 a coin that commands a premium above standard 1928-S examples. If you have one and you’re not sure whether yours qualifies as a VAM 3, a coin identifier and value app can help you get a starting point before you consult a professional grader.
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How Condition Affects the 1928-S VAM 3 Value
Like all coins, condition is everything when it comes to determining what your 1928-S VAM 3 Doubled Motto Peace Dollar is worth. A coin that has been heavily circulated with significant wear on the high points will be worth far less than one that has been kept in a collection and shows its original luster.
Here’s a general value breakdown based on grade:
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| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 (Good) | Heavy wear, major features visible | $40 – $60 |
| VG-8 (Very Good) | Moderate wear, some detail remains | $65 – $100 |
| F-12 (Fine) | Even wear, clearer detail | $110 – $175 |
| VF-20 (Very Fine) | Light wear on high points | $200 – $350 |
| EF-40 (Extremely Fine) | Slight wear, sharp detail | $400 – $650 |
| MS-63 (Mint State) | Uncirculated, minor marks | $900 – $1,500+ |
| MS-65 (Gem) | Exceptional luster and surfaces | $2,500+ |
You can explore up-to-date 1928-S Peace Dollar price data by grade to see how recent auction results and dealer prices compare to these estimates. Markets shift, and having current data is always smart.
Where the 1928-S Was Minted and Why It Matters
The “S” mintmark on this coin tells us it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. In 1928, the Philadelphia Mint produced Peace Dollars in very limited quantities — just 360,649 coins — but San Francisco contributed additional production that year.
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The San Francisco coins carry the small “S” mintmark found on the reverse, just above the eagle’s tail feathers. For the VAM 3 variety specifically, look closely at the motto letters under a loupe or magnifier. The doubling is subtle but consistent across known examples of this die pairing.
Getting a coin professionally graded and attributed by PCGS or NGC as a VAM 3 can significantly boost both its marketability and its value. Many collectors will only pay a variety premium for certified and attributed examples.
Using Modern Tools to Identify and Value Your Coin
You don’t need to be a numismatist to get a solid idea of what your coin might be worth. Today’s technology makes it easier than ever for everyday collectors and finders to research their coins from home.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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CoinKnow is a popular mobile app that lets you photograph your coin and get an instant identification along with general value guidance. It’s a great first step before spending money on professional grading.
For a deeper look at 1928 silver dollar values across different conditions and varieties, dedicated numismatic resources can walk you through the full range of what these coins are selling for right now.
CoinKnow also provides variety information and helps you cross-reference your coin’s features with known VAM listings, which is incredibly useful if you suspect you have something special like the VAM 3 Doubled Motto.
Tips for Selling Your 1928-S VAM 3 Peace Dollar
If you’ve confirmed you have a 1928-S VAM 3, here are a few practical tips before you sell:
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Get it graded first. A PCGS or NGC-certified coin with the VAM 3 attribution will sell for more than a raw coin, even in the same physical condition.
Don’t clean it. Cleaning a coin destroys its surface and dramatically reduces its value. Let professionals assess it as-is.
Know your selling options. Major auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers specialize in numismatic rarities. For lower-grade examples, eBay and coin shows are also viable options.
Use CoinKnow as a quick reference to compare values before you agree to any price from a dealer or private buyer.
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Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my 1928-S Peace Dollar is a VAM 3?
A: Look for visible doubling on the letters of “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the obverse. It’s best confirmed under 5x–10x magnification. Professional attribution through PCGS or NGC is the most reliable confirmation.
Q: Is the 1928-S VAM 3 rare?
A: It is considered scarce. While the 1928-S itself is a key date with limited mintage, the VAM 3 die variety narrows the population further. Fewer certified examples exist compared to standard 1928-S coins.
Q: What is the silver melt value of a 1928-S Peace Dollar?
A: Peace Dollars contain 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver. At current silver prices (approximately $28–$30 per ounce), the melt value is roughly $21–$23. However, the numismatic value of the 1928-S VAM 3 far exceeds its silver content in most grades.
