Price Guide for 1855 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: $9.00 – $504.00Uncirculated: $1.35 – $43,125.00
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eBayCirculated: $10.50 – $399.99Uncirculated: $108.05 – $695.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $450.00Uncirculated: $475.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $26.00 – $40,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $9,000.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,450.00
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eBayCirculated: $136.50 – $1,995.00Uncirculated: $85.66 – $100.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9,400.00 – $74,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7,800.00 – $16,800.00
Design and Specifications of the 1855 Dime
The 1855 Seated Liberty Dime is part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1891. This year saw the continuation of the Arrows at Date variety, introduced in 1853 to denote a slight reduction in weight. The arrows were removed after 1855, making this the last year of this short-lived subtype.
The coin features Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a liberty pole with a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom. The reverse displays a wreath of laurel leaves, representing victory and honor.
| Weight | 2.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath of laurel leaves, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1855 Seated Liberty Dime significantly impacts its value. Coins in higher grades (MS63 and above) are considerably scarcer and more valuable due to the extensive circulation of these coins.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds to the coin’s appeal and value.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer contact marks and scratches increase desirability.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors.
Mintage: 1,750,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: Arrows at Date variety
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 1,730,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: Arrows at Date variety
Market Demand: Moderate to High, especially for high-grade examples
Additional factors influencing the 1855 Dime’s value include:
1. Arrows at Date: This variety is collectible as part of a short-lived subtype.
2. Mint mark: New Orleans (O) mint coins are often more valued due to slightly lower mintage and generally poorer preservation.
3. Die varieties: Some collectors seek specific die varieties, which can command premiums.
4. Historical significance: As the last year of the Arrows at Date subtype, this date holds special interest for type collectors.
Collectors should be aware of potential alterations, such as added mint marks or removed arrows, which can significantly affect authenticity and value.
