The 1843-O Liberty Seated dime, minted at the New Orleans Mint, is part of the Liberty Seated dime series. It is recognized for its rarity and historical significance, with a low mintage of just 150,000 coins. Due to its limited production, it is highly sought after by coin collectors. Circulated examples are not common, while Mint State versions are incredibly rare, making it a prized coin in numismatic collections.
The 1843-O Liberty Seated dime was produced during a period of reduced minting at the New Orleans Mint, following years of higher output. The coin was designed by Christian Gobrecht, whose Liberty Seated design was widely used on various U.S. silver coins in the mid-19th century. The 1843-O dime holds significance due to its low mintage and the fact that few high-grade examples are known to exist, with only four Mint State examples certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Size | 17.9 millimeters |
| Denomination | 0.10 USD |
| Gross Weight | 2.67 grams |
| Actual Silver Weight | 0.0773 troy ounces of silver |
| Fineness/Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Diameter | 17.9 millimeters |
| Thickness | 1.35 millimeters |
| Specific Gravity | 9.8–10.0 |
| Numismatic Price Range | 454 - 116145 |
The obverse of the 1843-O Liberty Seated dime features the seated figure of Liberty draped in a flowing robe, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap. The reverse displays a wreath surrounding the denomination "ONE DIME." The “O” mintmark, indicating its New Orleans origin, is positioned beneath the wreath on the reverse side. This specific coin belongs to the Type 2 design, which includes stars and drapery on the obverse. Its 90% silver composition and attractive design make it a standout in the Liberty Seated series.
The 1843-O Liberty Seated dime is a symbol of U.S. Mint history and the economic developments of the mid-19th century. As the New Orleans Mint faced fluctuating production rates, this coin’s low mintage represents a period of economic shifts and the challenges faced by the mint. Numismatists value it for its rarity and condition, particularly those in uncirculated states. The Eliasberg example, graded MS-66, is the finest known, adding to the coin's mystique among collectors.
In circulated grades, the 1843-O Liberty Seated dime is affordable, with values starting around $454 for a coin in average condition. However, in uncirculated grades, its value can reach extraordinary heights, with MS-grade coins valued between $84,115 and $116,145, depending on condition and provenance. The scarcity of Mint State examples greatly enhances its value, particularly in the rarest high-grade specimens.
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