1846 Seated Liberty Half Dime

The 1846 Seated Liberty half dime holds a special place in numismatic history due to its low mintage of only 27,000, making it a rare and highly coveted coin among collectors.

Its rarity is most pronounced in Mint State condition, with only a few examples known and none graded higher than MS-62.

The coin is considered the key date in the pre-Civil War Seated Liberty half dimes series and is highly sought after in all conditions.

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Historical Context

The Seated Liberty half dime series was designed by Christian Gobrecht, and the 1846 version is notable for its particularly low mintage.

This coin was produced at the Philadelphia Mint during a year of significant historical events, including the Mexican-American War and the discovery of Neptune.

Despite the turmoil and scientific achievements of the time, only 27,000 pieces of this coin were struck, contributing to its status as one of the rarest and most desirable coins in the series.

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Specifications:

Size: 15.5 millimeters
Denomination: Half dime (H10c)
Gross Weight: 1.34 grams
Actual Silver Weight: 1.206 grams
Fineness/Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 15.5 millimeters
Thickness: Not provided
Specific Gravity: Not provided

Coin Description:

The obverse of the 1846 Seated Liberty half dime features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap. The reverse design displays a wreath encircling the denomination "HALF DIME" in the center. The coin has a reeded edge and was composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. Its simple yet elegant design by Christian Gobrecht is iconic in U.S. coinage.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

The 1846 Seated Liberty half dime is a key date coin in American numismatics due to its rarity and historical context. It is a popular piece in the Seated Liberty series, and its limited mintage makes it highly desirable for collectors. The coin is a testament to U.S. minting during a transformative period in the country’s history, highlighting its westward expansion and scientific achievements.

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Numismatic Value:

As of October 2024, the value of a circulated 1846 Seated Liberty half dime ranges from $1,100 to $10,500, according to the NGC Price Guide. Uncirculated examples can command prices up to $36,000, reflecting their rarity and demand among collectors.

Free Appraisal With No Obligation To Sell

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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