Price Guide for 1857 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: $14.00 – $325.00Uncirculated: $1.30 – $10,063.00
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eBayCirculated: $14.50 – $409.99Uncirculated: $122.50 – $735.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $340.00Uncirculated: $385.00 – $9,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $32.00 – $450.00Uncirculated: $1.40 – $9,350.00
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eBayCirculated: $24.83 – $510.00Uncirculated: $304.00 – $565.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $500.00Uncirculated: $550.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,013.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $14,400.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2,306.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,000.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $30,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,120.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,440.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,260.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,350.00
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eBayCirculated: $42.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $528.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,762.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,100.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $104.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $180.00 – $188.00Uncirculated: $1,200.00 – $4,465.00
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eBayCirculated: $219.00 – $309.59
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $325.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $4,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,880.00 – $8,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5,500.00 – $12,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1857 Dime
The 1857 Seated Liberty Dime was part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1891. This coin was minted during a period of economic uncertainty, just prior to the Panic of 1857, which would lead to a significant economic downturn in the United States.
The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, symbolized the stability and strength of the young nation. This year’s coinage occurred during a time of westward expansion and growing sectional tensions that would eventually lead to the Civil War.
| 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 of laurel leaves, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1857 Seated Liberty Dimes significantly impacts their value. Coins in circulated conditions are relatively common and affordable, but uncirculated examples become increasingly valuable.
Key factors affecting value include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant premium, especially for uncirculated coins.
3. Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or scratches increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal and value for some collectors.
Coins graded MS65 or higher are quite rare and command substantial premiums, particularly for the New Orleans mint.
Mintage: 5,580,000
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: 1,540,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for high-grade examples
Additional factors influencing the 1857 Seated Liberty Dime’s value include:
1. Mint mark: New Orleans (O) mint coins are generally more valuable due to lower mintage and survival rates.
2. Historical significance: The coin’s association with the pre-Civil War era and the Panic of 1857 adds to its collectible appeal.
3. Type collection demand: As a representative of the Seated Liberty design, this coin is sought after by type collectors.
4. Die varieties: While no major varieties are known, minor die variations can add interest for specialized collectors.
5. Overall eye appeal: Coins with attractive overall appearance often command premiums beyond their technical grade.
