Price Guide for 1850 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: $1.00 – $408.00Uncirculated: $3.15 – $20,700.00
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eBayCirculated: $8.50 – $450.00Uncirculated: $113.50 – $671.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $15.00 – $485.00Uncirculated: $525.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $0.60 – $1,880.00Uncirculated: $9.00 – $40,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $39.00 – $599.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $2,250.00Uncirculated: $2,750.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3,960.00Uncirculated: $19,975.00 – $80,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $55,000.00 – $87,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $42.00Uncirculated: $75.69 – $175.00
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eBayCirculated: $165.50
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eBayCirculated: $164.72
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eBayCirculated: $30.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $211.50 – $329.00
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eBayCirculated: $62.66
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $48,875.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,070.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $705.00
Design and Specifications of the 1850 Dime
The 1850 Dime, part of the Seated Liberty series, was minted during a period of significant change in American history. This year marked the height of the California Gold Rush, which had a profound impact on the nation’s economy and coinage. The Seated Liberty design, introduced in 1837, continued to be used on dimes, showcasing the enduring popularity of Christian Gobrecht’s classic artwork.
| Weight | 2.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | New Orleans (O), Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| 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 1850 Dimes significantly impacts their value. Uncirculated examples are particularly scarce and highly sought after by collectors. Coins with original mint luster and minimal contact marks command substantial premiums. The New Orleans mint coins are generally more valuable due to their lower mintage and typically poorer striking quality.
Toning can also play a role in desirability, with attractively toned specimens often commanding higher prices. The presence of full striking details, particularly on the central design elements and stars, can greatly enhance a coin’s value.
Mintage: 1,931,500
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 510,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Strike quality is a crucial factor for 1850 Dimes, especially for the New Orleans mint coins, which often suffer from weak strikes. Coins with sharp, well-defined details are highly prized. The preservation of original surfaces is also important, as many coins from this era were cleaned in the past, reducing their numismatic value.
The historical significance of the California Gold Rush era adds to the appeal of 1850 coinage for many collectors. Additionally, die varieties, while not as prominent as in some other years, can add interest and value for specialized collectors of the Seated Liberty series.
