Seated Liberty Dime

Brief Description

The obverse of the coin features a seated figure of Liberty, holding a shield inscribed with 'LIBERTY' and a pole topped with a Phrygian cap. Thirteen stars encircle the design, representing the original states. The year '1884' is located below Liberty. The reverse, though not visible, typically features a wreath of corn, wheat, and cotton encircling the words 'ONE DIME'.

Historical Significance

The Seated Liberty design was a prominent motif on U.S. coinage for over half a century, from 1837 to 1891, and was used on dimes, quarters, half-dollars, trade dollars, and silver dollars. The 1884 Seated Liberty Dime is from the middle to late period of this series. These coins circulated during a period of significant industrial growth and westward expansion in the United States, pre-dating the widespread use of paper money for small transactions. The design itself was created by Christian Gobrecht.

Estimated Value

The estimated value of an 1884 Seated Liberty Dime varies widely based on its condition (grade), mint mark, and any potential errors. In 'Good' condition, it might be valued from $20-$40, while in 'Fine' condition it could be $50-$100+. Coins in 'Uncirculated' condition can fetch several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Given the visible wear on the coin, it likely falls into the lower to mid-range of circulated grades.

Care Instructions

To preserve the coin's condition, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in an inert, archival-safe holder (such as Mylar flips or non-PVC coin slabs) to prevent environmental damage. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can severely damage its surface and significantly reduce its value. Patina, the natural toning that develops over time, is often desirable to collectors and should not be removed.

Created At: 2025-10-06T02:12:18.984957