Price Guide for 1849 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: $1.40 – $499.00Uncirculated: $180.00 – $39,550.00
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eBayCirculated: $25.00 – $349.00Uncirculated: $82.00 – $1,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 – $600.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.00 – $2,970.00Uncirculated: $3.80 – $14,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $24.50 – $700.00Uncirculated: $1,450.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 – $2,750.00Uncirculated: $3,000.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,300.00 – $69,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $32,500.00 – $85,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $8,225.00
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eBayCirculated: $49.05
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eBayCirculated: $96.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $129.25 – $288.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $365.43Uncirculated: $13,200.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,530.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,080.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,520.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $155.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,350.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $360.00Uncirculated: $2,040.00
Design and Specifications of the 1849 Dime
The 1849 Seated Liberty Dime was part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1891. This year is notable as it coincided with the California Gold Rush, which had a significant impact on the American economy and coinage. The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, symbolized the young nation’s stability and strength.
| 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 1849 dimes significantly impacts their value. Due to their age and circulation, finding high-grade examples is challenging. Uncirculated specimens are particularly valuable, with those grading MS65 or higher commanding substantial premiums.
For the New Orleans mint coins, even lower grades can be valuable due to their rarity. Strike quality is an important factor, as many coins from this era, especially from branch mints, often have weak strikes.
Mintage: 839,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 300,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Luster is a crucial factor for uncirculated coins, with original mint luster being highly prized. Toning can also add value, particularly if it’s attractive and natural. For circulated coins, even wear and lack of significant marks or damage are important.
The historical significance of the California Gold Rush era adds to the coin’s appeal. Collectors often seek these coins as representatives of this important period in American history, potentially increasing demand and value.
