Because the VAM 122 is valuable, it is frequently counterfeited or misidentified. Watch out for these traps:
The primary appeal of the VAM-122 is a dramatic, visible die gouge or break that creates the illusion of a "second ear."
If you own or service a retro arcade cabinet, a pinball machine, or a kiddie ride, the VAM 122 key may open the coin door or the service panel. Many arcade operators standardized on VAM locks for their ease of replacement.
In the vast and intricate world of Morgan dollar collecting, few pursuits are as rewarding—or as complex—as "VAMming." VAM (Van Allen-Mallis) numbers represent die pairings and distinct physical characteristics found on silver dollars minted from 1878 to 1921. Among the hundreds of recognized VAM varieties, some are famous for dramatic errors (like the 1888-O "Hot Lips"), while others are renowned for extreme scarcity.
One such variety that has gained a cult following among advanced collectors is the VAM 122 Key. If you have heard this term murmured at coin shows or seen it listed in auction catalogs with a significant premium, you know it represents something special. But what exactly is the VAM 122 key? Why is it so sought after? And how do you identify one in the wild?
This long-form guide will unlock every detail you need to know about the VAM 122 key, from its diagnostic markers to its market value.
