Price Guide for 1846 Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.60 – $29,900.00Uncirculated: $30.00 – $86,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $177.50 – $2,803.15
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $350.00 – $32,500.00Uncirculated: $36,000.00 – $67,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $480.00 – $3,120.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,959.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,462.50 – $74,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $10,000.00 – $45,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1846 Dime
The 1846 Dime was part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1891. This design, featuring Liberty seated on a rock, was a significant departure from earlier coin designs and represented a more mature artistic style in American coinage.
The year 1846 was notable as it fell during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), a period of significant territorial expansion for the United States. This historical context adds to the coin’s significance as a tangible piece of American history from a pivotal time.
| Weight | 2.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the words 'ONE DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1846 Dimes significantly impacts their value. Due to their age and circulation, finding high-grade examples is challenging. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
For Philadelphia-minted coins, even lower circulated grades can command premium prices due to the coin’s overall scarcity. New Orleans-minted coins are more common but still valuable in higher grades.
Luster, strike quality, and the presence of original toning can greatly enhance a coin’s desirability and value, particularly for uncirculated specimens.
Mintage: 31,300
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 510,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate to High, depending on condition
Several factors can influence the value of 1846 Dimes:
1. Mint mark: Philadelphia issues are generally more valuable due to lower mintage.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
3. Originality: Coins with original surfaces and natural toning are preferred over cleaned or altered pieces.
4. Historical significance: The coin’s association with the Mexican-American War era can appeal to history enthusiasts.
5. Preservation: Any 1846 Dime in high grades (XF or better) is considered rare and valuable due to the coin’s age and limited survival rate in top condition.
