1856-S Seated Liberty Dime

The 1856-S Liberty Seated dime holds special significance as the first dime minted at the San Francisco Mint.

With a mintage of only 70,000 pieces, it is one of the rarest coins in the Seated Liberty dime series, especially sought after in Mint State conditions.

The 1856-S dime is coveted among collectors, particularly due to its historical importance and scarcity.

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Historical Context

The 1856-S dime was produced during a time of great growth in the United States, especially in the Western territories following the California Gold Rush. This marked the first year that the San Francisco Mint began striking dimes.

Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the coin features the Seated Liberty design, which was used across various denominations from 1837 to 1891. Due to its low mintage and high demand, this dime is rare and highly prized, particularly in mint state.

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Specifications:

Size: 17.9 millimeters
Denomination: 10 cents (dime)
Gross Weight: 2.48 grams
Actual Silver Weight:Approximately 2.23 grams
Fineness/Composition:90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter:17.9 millimeters
Thickness:Not specified
Specific Gravity: Not specified

Coin Description:

The 1856-S Liberty Seated dime features the iconic Seated Liberty design on the obverse, created by Christian Gobrecht and refined by Robert Ball Hughes. Liberty is depicted sitting on a rock, holding a shield in her right hand and a staff with a liberty cap in her left hand.

The reverse shows an agricultural wreath encircling the denomination "ONE DIME." While most examples display well-defined central details, the outer denticles (rim details) are often weak, a known characteristic of this particular issue.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

The 1856-S dime represents not only a key moment in U.S. minting history as the first San Francisco Mint dime but also a significant artifact of the post-Gold Rush era. Its rarity in all conditions, particularly in mint state, makes it highly desirable for collectors. The legendary collector Gene Gardner rated this coin as High R7 in mint state, further underlining its exceptional status in numismatics.

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Numismatic Value:

The value of the 1856-S Liberty Seated dime varies widely based on condition. In average circulated condition, it is typically valued between $593 and $4,100. However, uncirculated (MS+) examples can fetch prices between $8,673 and $18,080, with top specimens selling for as much as $54,000. A single PCGS MS-65 example sold in 2003 for $43,700, highlighting its value to serious 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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