Price Guide for 1836 Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.00 – $2,585.00Uncirculated: $3.50 – $73,437.50
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eBayCirculated: $18.21 – $745.00Uncirculated: $865.00 – $4,150.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,100.00Uncirculated: $1,250.00 – $85,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $48.00 – $600.00Uncirculated: $1,200.00 – $5,280.00
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eBayCirculated: $180.50 – $314.12Uncirculated: $2,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,100.00Uncirculated: $1,200.00 – $80,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $6,000.00Uncirculated: $8,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $50,000.00 – $80,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $38.00 – $834.00Uncirculated: $1,860.00 – $44,063.00
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eBayCirculated: $246.05
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,100.00Uncirculated: $1,200.00 – $80,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $47.00 – $920.00Uncirculated: $1,175.00 – $35,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,100.00Uncirculated: $1,200.00 – $80,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1836 Dime
The 1836 Dime marks a significant transition in American coinage design. This year saw the introduction of the Seated Liberty design, which would remain on dimes for over 50 years. Christian Gobrecht’s new design replaced the Capped Bust type and represented a more modern, artistic approach to coin design. The 1836 issue is particularly notable as it represents the first year of this iconic design.
| Weight | 2.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the words 'ONE DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1836 Dime significantly impacts its value. As a first-year issue of the Seated Liberty design, well-preserved specimens are highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable, with premium prices for those exhibiting strong strikes and minimal contact marks.
The presence of original mint luster and absence of cleaning or other damage greatly enhances value. Toning can also play a role, with attractive, natural toning often commanding a premium among collectors.
Mintage: 1,190,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above due to age and circulation
Varieties Errors: Large Date and Small Date varieties
Market Demand: High, due to its historical significance and first-year status
Several factors can further increase the value of an 1836 Dime:
1. Variety: The Large Date and Small Date varieties are both collectible, with the Large Date being slightly scarcer.
2. Strike Quality: Well-struck examples with full details, especially on Liberty’s head and the wreath, are more desirable.
3. Die State: Early die state examples with sharp details can command a premium.
4. Historical Significance: As the first year of the Seated Liberty design, this coin holds special appeal for type set collectors and numismatic historians.
5. Preservation: Examples that have avoided cleaning or damage over their long history are particularly valuable.
