Price Guide for 1851 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 – $600.00Uncirculated: $5.00 – $24,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $24.54 – $255.00Uncirculated: $577.00 – $2,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $30,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $0.40 – $3,290.00Uncirculated: $690.00 – $14,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $41.00 – $1,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $4,250.00Uncirculated: $5,500.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $240.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,468.75
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eBayCirculated: $207.95
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,325.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,380.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $15,275.00
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eBayCirculated: $75.00 – $150.00
Design and Specifications of the 1851 Dime
The 1851 Seated Liberty Dime is part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1891. This year saw significant historical events, including the height of the California Gold Rush and the publication of Herman Melville’s ‘Moby-Dick‘. The coin’s design reflected the classical revival style popular in American coinage of the mid-19th century.
| 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 1851 Dimes significantly impacts their value. Coins in higher grades (MS63 and above) are particularly valuable due to their scarcity. The New Orleans mint coins are especially prized in high grades due to their lower mintage and typically poorer strike quality.
Luster is a crucial factor, with coins retaining original mint luster commanding premium prices. Strike quality can vary, particularly for New Orleans coins, with well-struck examples being more desirable. Toning can also affect value, with attractive, natural toning often enhancing a coin’s appeal to collectors.
Mintage: 4,804,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 400,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Mintmark plays a significant role in the value of 1851 Dimes. The New Orleans (O) mintmark coins are generally more valuable due to their lower mintage. Die varieties, while not as prominent in this year, can still affect value for specialist collectors.
The historical significance of the California Gold Rush era adds to the coin’s appeal. Provenance, especially if the coin can be traced to a notable collection, can increase value. For high-grade specimens, certification by reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC can significantly impact value and marketability.
