Seated Liberty Dime Value
1837-1891 · 10¢ · 90% silver 10% copper
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $12.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $25.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $70.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $350.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $1,050 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $5,250 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1871-CC | First Carson City dime, extremely rare with only 20,100 struck | $5,000–$100,000 |
| 1873-CC | No Arrows variety, only one known example | $1,000,000+ |
| 1844 | Orphan Annie dime, mintage of just 72,500 | $200–$5,000 |
| 1860-O | Transitional pattern with old reverse, 40,000 struck before Civil War | $500–$3,000 |
| 1838-O | First branch mint dime, no stars obverse | $50–$800 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Christian Gobrecht
- Years
- 1837-1891
- Denomination
- 10¢
- Composition
- 90% silver 10% copper
- Diameter
- 17.9 mm
- Weight
- 2.5 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Seated Liberty Dime: History & Background
The Seated Liberty Dime features Christian Gobrecht's iconic design of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole topped with a Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom drawn from ancient Rome. The series underwent several design modifications: the original had no stars (1837-1838), stars were added around the obverse in 1838, drapery was added to Liberty's elbow in 1840, and the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA moved to the obverse in 1860. Arrows at the date in 1853-1855 and 1873-1874 indicate weight changes. This 55-year series contains numerous rarities and varieties, with Carson City issues from 1871 to 1878 particularly prized by collectors.
How to Grade a Seated Liberty Dime
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →