The 1862-S Liberty Seated dime is a rare coin from the San Francisco Mint, notable for its low mintage and even smaller surviving population in any condition. A valuable collectible, it is particularly prized when found in mint state, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Minted in San Francisco in 1862, during the Civil War, the 1862-S Liberty Seated dime had a modest production run of just 180,000 coins. At the time, collectors largely focused on Philadelphia-minted coins, leaving most San Francisco branch mint issues to circulate extensively. This resulted in the scarcity of high-grade examples today, with uncirculated coins being extremely rare. The top-grade known is a PCGS MS-65, holding a record price for this dime.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Size | 17.9 millimeters |
| Denomination | 0.10 USD |
| Gross Weight | 2.49 grams |
| Actual Silver Weight | 0.0723 troy ounces of silver |
| Fineness/Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Diameter | 17.9 millimeters |
| Thickness | 1.35 millimeters |
| Specific Gravity | ~10.34 |
| Numismatic Price Range | $75 - $46500 |
The 1862-S Liberty Seated dime features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in one hand and a pole topped by a Phrygian cap in the other. The reverse shows a wreath encircling the denomination "One Dime." The coin's design is part of the broader Liberty Seated series, which was produced from 1837 to 1891. The coin has a reeded edge and contains 90% silver.
The 1862-S Liberty Seated dime is a prized item among numismatists due to its rarity, especially in mint state. It offers a window into mid-19th century coinage and commerce during the Civil War era, making it not only valuable but historically significant. Its low survival rate in high grades adds to its desirability among collectors of U.S. coinage.
As of October 2024, the coin's value varies significantly based on condition. In circulated grades, its value ranges from $75 to $3,125. However, pristine, uncirculated examples can command as much as $46,500 in the open market. Its melt value, based on current silver prices, is approximately $2.28.
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