Price Guide for 1847 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: $5.00 – $2,040.00Uncirculated: $13.00 – $5,581.25
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eBayCirculated: $40.00 – $536.89
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $20.00 – $1,250.00Uncirculated: $1,750.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $89.00 – $329.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $25.00 – $56,350.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $45,000.00 – $60,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $120.02 – $270.50Uncirculated: $136.50
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $35,250.00 – $51,750.00
Design and Specifications of the 1847 Dime
The 1847 Seated Liberty Dime was part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1891. This design, featuring Liberty seated on a rock, was a significant departure from earlier coin designs and symbolized the growing nation’s stability and strength.
The year 1847 was notable as it fell during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), a period of territorial expansion for the United States. This historical context adds to the coin’s significance as a tangible piece of American history from a time of national growth and conflict.
| Weight | 2.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | New Orleans (O), 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 1847 Dime significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Coins in higher grades (MS60 and above) are particularly sought after due to their rarity.
For Philadelphia-minted coins, specimens in MS65 or better are extremely rare and command substantial premiums. New Orleans-minted coins are even more challenging to find in high grades, with MS65+ examples being exceptionally rare.
Collectors also value coins with strong strikes, full luster, and attractive toning. The presence of original mint luster and absence of significant contact marks or wear on high points (such as Liberty’s knee and breast) are crucial factors in determining grade and value.
Mintage: 245,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 2,610,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for high-grade examples
Die state and strike quality can significantly affect the value of 1847 Dimes. Well-struck coins with sharp details, especially on Liberty’s head and the wreath on the reverse, are more desirable.
Original toning can enhance a coin’s appeal and value, particularly if it exhibits attractive, multi-colored hues. However, any signs of cleaning or artificial toning can severely decrease a coin’s value.
The New Orleans mintage, despite being higher, often suffers from weaker strikes and more circulation wear, making high-grade examples particularly valuable. For both mints, coins with prooflike surfaces, while rare, can command significant premiums.
