1844 Seated Liberty Dime

The 1844 Seated Liberty dime is a popular collectible due to its historical nickname, the "Little Orphan Annie dime," which was coined by collector Frank Ross in the 1930s.

While its rarity has been exaggerated, this dime is sought after in top condition and is part of the Seated Liberty series, a collection known for its artistry and symbolism.

The coin was minted in Philadelphia without a mintmark and has been a significant piece in numismatics since its release.

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Historical Context

Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the 1844 Seated Liberty dime is part of the Type 2 - Stars With Drapery design. Its mintage of 72,500 makes it relatively scarce, though not as rare as earlier collectors believed.

The coin gained prominence in the 1930s when Frank Ross promoted it as a great rarity, giving rise to its famous nickname.

While circulated examples can be found, those in Mint State condition are highly coveted by collectors. Gerry Fortin has identified two die varieties for this year, with the reverse die used again in 1845.

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Specifications:

Size: 17.9 millimeters
Denomination: 10 cents
Gross Weight: 2.67 grams
Actual Gold Weight: N/A (silver composition)
Fineness/Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 17.9 millimeters
Thickness: Not specified
Specific Gravity: Not specified

Coin Description:

The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a staff with a shield that has the word "LIBERTY" on a ribbon. Thirteen stars encircle the periphery of the coin, and the date is positioned at the bottom center.

The reverse design displays the words "ONE DIME" inside a detailed wreath tied by a ribbon, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the edge. The craftsmanship of the coin, especially in higher grades, shows excellent attention to detail, particularly in Liberty's drapery.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

Although initially overhyped by early collectors, the 1844 Seated Liberty dime holds an important place in numismatics due to its nickname and its rarity in higher grades. Collectors are particularly drawn to its scarcity in Mint State, where prices can reach into the tens of thousands. The discovery of a hoard of 612 of these dimes in 2003 allowed more collectors to obtain this piece, further cementing its place as a notable coin in American numismatic history.

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Numismatic Value:

According to the USA Coin Book, the estimated value of an 1844 Seated Liberty dime ranges from $304 in average condition to as much as $13,912 or more in uncirculated condition.

The NGC Price Guide (as of October 2024) lists values between $150 and $3,450 for circulated coins, with pristine uncirculated examples reaching up to $45,000.

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Take the first step toward selling your silver coins by getting a free appraisal today. Our process is designed to be transparent, convenient, and stress-free, giving you the confidence to sell when you’re ready.

At Coinfully, we’re committed to helping you get the most for your silver coins—all from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know I’m getting a fair price for my dimes?

At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of your dimes, including their silver content (for pre-1965 dimes) and their numismatic value. We provide a detailed breakdown of how we determine your offer so that you can be fully informed and confident in the price you receive.

Is my shipment insured when I send my dimes to Coinfully?

Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending Draped Bust dimes, Mercury dimes, or Roosevelt dimes, your coins are insured throughout the entire shipping process, ensuring that your valuable items are protected and safe.

What types of dimes does Coinfully buy?

We buy all types of U.S. dimes, including Draped Bust, Liberty Seated, Barber, Mercury, and Roosevelt dimes, and other collectible dimes. Whether your dimes are valuable for their silver content or their collectibility, we’re interested in making you a competitive offer.

What if I’m not ready to sell after receiving an appraisal?

There’s no obligation to sell your dimes after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We provide a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your coins. You can choose to sell when you’re ready, with no pressure from us.

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