Introduction
The Seated Liberty Dime, struck from 1837 to 1891, is one of the longest-running and most iconic designs in American coinage. Created by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht, it reflects an era when the young United States sought to symbolize strength, liberty, and progress through its coinage. Collectors prize the series for its artistry, long history, and the many key rarities that make it both challenging and rewarding to assemble.
History of the Seated Liberty Dime
The series debuted in 1837, following the passage of the Coinage Act, which standardized U.S. silver coinage. It was part of the broader Seated Liberty family that included half dimes, quarters, half dollars, and silver dollars. Over its 54-year production run, the dime underwent multiple design modifications, largely due to weight changes, minting technology, and evolving artistic preferences.
Design Features
- Obverse: Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and liberty pole topped with a cap.
- Reverse: Wreath encircling the denomination “ONE DIME.”
- Symbolism: Liberty represents freedom and vigilance; the shield shows readiness to defend.
Major Varieties & Subtypes
- No Stars on Obverse (1837–1838)
- Simplest form; Liberty surrounded by empty fields.
- Stars on Obverse (1838–1853)
- 13 stars added to represent the states.
- Arrows at Date (1853–1855)
- Small arrows flank the date, marking a reduction in silver content.
- No Arrows (1856–1860)
- Design returns to pre-1853 style but with new weight standard.
- Legend on Obverse (1860–1891)
- Motto “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” moved to obverse; cleaner reverse wreath design.
Key Dates & Rarities
| Date & Mint | Notes | Estimated Value Range* |
|---|---|---|
| 1837 No Stars | First year, type coin | $40 (G-4) – $1,000 (MS-63) |
| 1844 “Little Orphan Annie” | Scarce in all grades | $200 (G-4) – $10,000+ (MS-63) |
| 1853 With Arrows | Marked silver reduction | $25 (G-4) – $750 (MS-63) |
| 1871-CC | Rare Carson City issue | $2,000 (G-4) – $50,000+ (MS-63) |
| 1873 No Arrows | Low mintage, transitional type | $1,000 (G-4) – $25,000 (MS-63) |
| 1874-CC | Tough Carson City rarity | $1,500 (G-4) – $35,000 (MS-63) |
| 1879 | Very low mintage (14,000) | $300 (G-4) – $10,000 (MS-63) |
| 1885-S | San Francisco rarity | $500 (G-4) – $8,000 (MS-63) |
| 1891-O | Final year New Orleans issue | $150 (G-4) – $5,000 (MS-63) |
*Estimates are based on average auction results and retail price guides; exact values vary by eye appeal, grading service, and market demand.
Mint Marks & Locations
- Philadelphia: No mintmark
- New Orleans (O): South’s contribution, many scarce issues
- San Francisco (S): Mostly later years; some tough dates
- Carson City (CC): Produces some of the rarest and most desirable coins
Mintmarks are found on the reverse, below the wreath.
Composition & Specifications
- 1837–1853: 90% silver, 10% copper; 2.67 g
- 1853–1873: Weight reduced to 2.49 g
- Post-1873: Slight modifications but same silver content
- Diameter: 17.9 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Collectibility & Market Value
The silver Seated Liberty Dime is highly sought after by both type collectors and specialists. Affordable entry points are available for common dates in lower grades, often for under $30. However, Carson City issues, rare transitional varieties, and high-grade survivors can command five to six figures. Certified grading (PCGS, NGC) adds both market confidence and value.
Grading the Seated Liberty Dime
- Good (G-4): Outline of Liberty visible, but details flat.
- Fine (F-12): Some detail in shield and dress folds.
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): Stars and hair detail visible, light wear only.
- Mint State (MS-60+): No wear; luster intact; strike quality matters greatly.
Common issues include weak strikes, hairline scratches, and cleaning — all of which lower value.
How to Collect
- Type Collection: Acquire one example of each major subtype.
- Date & Mintmark Set: Full series run, a challenging but prestigious accomplishment.
- Carson City Focus: Highly desirable among advanced collectors.
Tips: Buy the best grade you can afford, prioritize eye appeal, and use trusted dealers or auction houses.
FAQs
What is a Seated Liberty Dime worth?
Common dates can start around $20–$30, while key rarities like the 1871-CC or 1873 No Arrows can sell for tens of thousands.
Where is the mintmark located?
On the reverse, just beneath the wreath.
What years are most valuable?
1844, 1871-CC, 1873 No Arrows, and other low-mintage Carson City issues.
Is the Seated Liberty Dime made of pure silver?
No, it is 90% silver and 10% copper.
Conclusion
The Seated Liberty Dime is more than just a piece of silver — it is a tangible connection to 19th-century America. With over five decades of minting, dozens of varieties, and legendary rarities, it remains a cornerstone of U.S. numismatics. Whether you’re building a type set or hunting for elusive Carson City dates, the Seated Liberty Dime offers a journey through history, artistry, and enduring collector demand.
If you’re looking to buy silver or sell silver, be sure to reach out to the shop. We also have rare coins in stock such as the Seated Liberty silver dimes. We have a wide selection of rare silver coins. Give us a call today to learn more.
