The Liberty Seated Dime, minted from 1837 to 1891, is one of the most cherished series among numismatists. The coins are known for their elegant design, historical significance, and lasting appeal to collectors. This article provides a detailed guide to the Liberty Seated Dime with Obverse Legends from 1860 to 1891, examining its design, variations, historical context, and collectible value.
Overview of the Liberty Seated Dime Series
The Liberty Seated Dime was designed by Christian Gobrecht and features a striking image of Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a liberty pole. The reverse of the coin typically depicts an eagle surrounded by a wreath. Over the years, the design of the coin has undergone some minor changes, most notably in the obverse legends, which refer to the inscriptions around the edge of the coin.
The Obverse Legend (1860-1891)
The obverse legend refers to the inscription that appeared on the front of the coin, surrounding the depiction of Liberty. During the 1860 to 1891 period, the obverse legend consisted of several key inscriptions:
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”: This inscription encircled the image of Liberty, signifying the coin’s official status as U.S. currency. This wording remained consistent throughout the series.
- “LIBERTY”: This was a prominent feature of the obverse legend and is found across all Liberty Seated Dimes. It represents the ideals of freedom and democracy, central to the design and identity of the coin.
- “E PLURIBUS UNUM”: This Latin phrase, meaning “Out of many, one,” was included in the design of most U.S. coins of this era, symbolizing the unity of the states.
Historical Context and Design Evolution
After the Civil War, the U.S. Mint began producing higher-quality coins with improved striking techniques. The obverse legend on the Liberty Seated Dime became bolder and more defined, reflecting the nation’s recovery and growth. By the late 1870s and early 1880s, the coin was fully modernized in terms of its aesthetics and legibility.
Collectibility and Value
The Liberty Seated Dime with the obverse legend from 1860-1891 is highly collectible due to its rich history, design, and the occasional scarcity of certain dates. Some factors that impact the value of these coins include:
- Mint Mark: Dimes minted in different locations—such as Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S), or New Orleans (O)—can significantly vary in value. Some mint marks, like the New Orleans mint, are more sought after by collectors due to their relative scarcity.
- Condition: Coins in higher grades are valued significantly more than those in lower grades. The condition of the coin is one of the most important factors in determining its market price. Coins with sharp details and minimal wear are more desirable.
- Rarity: Certain years and variations of the Liberty Seated Dime are rarer than others, especially those with lower mintage figures. For example, the 1871-CC and 1873-CC issues are considered some of the most valuable due to their limited production and high demand among collectors.
Popular Variations and Rarity
While the 1860-1891 Liberty Seated Dime is widely regarded as a collectible series, there are specific years and varieties that attract particular attention from collectors. Some notable examples include:
- 1860-O: The first year that the New Orleans mint produced dimes. This coin is valuable due to its historical importance.
- 1871-CC: A key date in the series, coins from the Carson City mint are particularly sought after due to their low mintage.
- 1873-CC: Known for its rarity and high demand, this is one of the more expensive coins in the series, particularly in higher grades.
Conclusion
The Liberty Seated Dime with Obverse Legends (1860-1891) remains a cornerstone of U.S. coin collecting. The combination of historical significance, beautiful design, and occasional rarity make these coins highly desirable among collectors. Whether you are an experienced numismatist or a beginner, understanding the nuances of the obverse legends and variations of these coins is key to building a successful collection.
FAQs
What are the key features of the Liberty Seated Dime from 1860-1891?
The Liberty Seated Dime features the obverse legends “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “LIBERTY,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” surrounding a seated figure of Liberty.
Which years of the Liberty Seated Dime are most valuable?
Key dates that are particularly valuable to collectors include the 1860-O, 1871-CC, and 1873-CC dimes. These coins are prized for their low mintage and historical importance, particularly those in higher grades.
How can I determine the value of my Liberty Seated Dime?
The value of a Liberty Seated Dime depends on factors such as the year, mint mark, condition (grade), and rarity. Coins from specific years and mints, such as Carson City or New Orleans, tend to command higher prices.