DIME 1838-1860 Liberty Seated With Stars
Description
Perhaps, more significant that the coining of this particular issue, is the coining of the phrase, "one thin dime" that occurred in 1854. Note the amount of metal used in dates beginning in 1854, was decreased by 2.8 grains. At the same time, the diameter did not change at all. The Mint appeared, at this time, to get a little less generous. Maybe a Warren Buffett ancestor had something to do with overall supply of silver during this era.
In 1838, stars were added to the obverse of the Liberty Seated motif. This style was continued through 1859, plus 1860 at the San Francisco Mint. The reverse is similar to the proceeding but the wreath on the later issues is slightly heavier. Early issues lack drapery at Miss Liberty's elbow.
The type set collector has his choice of numerous varieties within this span, including a number of New Orleans and San Francisco Mint pieces. AU pieces are slightly harder to find, and Uncirculated coins are scarcer still. Superb Uncirculated pieces are quite elusive. As is the case with half dimes, certain dimes of 1853 and all dimes of 1854 and 1855 have arrows at the date and are considered to be separate types.
Valuation
- COIN NAME
- DIME 1838-1860 Liberty Seated With Stars
- DESIGNED BY
- Christian Gobrecht
- ISSUE DATE
- 1838-1860
- COMPOSITION
- 0.900 part silver, 0.100 part Copper
- DIAMETER
- 17.9 mm
- WEIGHT
- 41.2 grains 1838 to 1853 no arrows; 38.4 grains later
- EDGE
- Reeded
- BUS MINT
- 42,962,915
- PROOF MINT
- Fewer than 1,500 pieces
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