Price Guide for 1852 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: $0.80 – $460.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $17,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $14.55 – $325.00Uncirculated: $78.00 – $995.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $340.00Uncirculated: $385.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.00 – $1,586.25Uncirculated: $4.25 – $7,763.00
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eBayCirculated: $65.31 – $550.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $2,000.00Uncirculated: $2,250.00 – $12,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $22.00 – $44,850.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $11,000.00 – $55,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $155.00 – $302.00Uncirculated: $199.00 – $300.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $374.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $40.00 – $246.75
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,738.00 – $4,112.50
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,640.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,080.00Uncirculated: $3,995.00 – $11,162.50
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $11,750.00 – $49,937.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $35,000.00 – $70,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9,400.00
Design and Specifications of the 1852 Dime
The 1852 Seated Liberty Dime is part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1891. This coin was minted during a period of significant change in American history, just eight years before the outbreak of the Civil War. The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, symbolized the nation’s stability and endurance during a time of westward expansion and growing sectional tensions.
| 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 1852 Dimes significantly impacts their value. Coins in higher grades (MS63 and above) are particularly desirable due to their scarcity. The New Orleans mint coins are especially valuable in high grades due to their lower mintage and typically poorer strike quality.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more valuable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant premium.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer marks and abrasions increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance desirability.
Mintage: 1,535,500
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
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: 430,000
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
Additional factors influencing the value of 1852 Dimes include:
1. Mint mark: New Orleans (O) mint coins are generally more valuable due to lower mintage.
2. Die state: Late die state coins with interesting characteristics may command a premium.
3. Historical significance: As a pre-Civil War coin, it holds appeal for history enthusiasts.
4. Overall eye appeal: Coins with attractive overall appearance often sell for more than typical examples in the same grade.
Collectors should be aware that counterfeits exist, particularly of the scarcer New Orleans mint coins. Authentication is recommended for high-value specimens.
