Vam 122 Creator Key Top -

Report: VAM 122 — "Creator Key, Top"

Overview

  • VAM number: 122
  • Attributed variety/description: "Creator Key, Top" — a die variety designation used by VAM (Van Allen–Mallis) cataloguers for Morgan and Peace silver dollars, referring to specific die markers where the word "Creator" (from a motto or inscription) shows a distinctive key-like or hooked element near the top of the die/lettering.

Mastering VAM: A Guide to the "Creator Key Top" Feature

For users of Virt-A-Mate (VAM), the boundary between user and creator is thin. While the software is famous for its physics-based interactions, it is also a powerful toolkit for creating cinematic scenes and animations.

Content Sharing: Promoting your work within the VAM community. vam 122 creator key top

Macro Real Estate: These keyboards provide 24 dedicated function keys (F13–F24) which are perfect for mapping complex VaM shortcuts like "Toggle Wireframe" or "Reset Scene" to a single button. Report: VAM 122 — "Creator Key, Top" Overview

Unlocking the "Top" status in the VaM ecosystem via the Creator Key provides several advantages for digital artists: Mastering VAM: A Guide to the "Creator Key

Custom Profiles: Keycaps vary in thickness (typically 1.5mm to 2mm for PBT) and profile (such as Cherry or OEM), which fundamentally change the sound and feel for writers and editors who use high-end rigs.

Best Sources:

  1. r/mechmarket – Post a “Buying” thread with [WTB] VAM 122 Creator keycaps. Be specific about which key you need (e.g., “R3, 1.25u Ctrl”).
  2. Deskthority.net Forums – The European vintage keyboard community. VAM was a Dutch brand, so German and Dutch collectors are your best bet.
  3. eBay Kleinanzeigen (Germany) – Search for “VAM Tastatur” or “VAM Creator 122.” Most listings do not ship internationally, so use a proxy service.
  4. Yahoo! Japan Auctions – Some VAM units were exported to Japan. Search 「VAM 122 キートップ」.
  5. Discord – Alps Appreciation Server – This small community has parts-swapping threads.
  • NOS (New Old Stock): eBay, specialized vending parts liquidators (e.g., Vendors Exchange, D&S Vending).
  • 3D Printing: Many hobbyists now 3D-print replacement key tops for the diagnostic buttons (STL files available on Thingiverse under “Coinco VAM button cap”).
  • Surplus Forums: The VAM Creator Key is a sought-after collector’s item for arcade restorers; expect to pay $50–$150 for a working unit.