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Mintage: 682,500 (Both date sizes)
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
Fortin Top 100 Seated Dime Varieties #1 - F-101c
The No Stars obverse shows the Christian Gobrecht rendering of the Thomas Sully design, while the reverse has a wreath with ONE DIME, thin long leaves with long stemmed closed berries and the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. All design elements except the date were hubbed into the master die, a technological breakthrough for the time period. First coinage of this group was 30 brilliant proofs struck on June 30, 1837 at the direction of Mint Director, Robert Patterson.
Plate Coin: Fortin-101c, Bold luster highlists finest known example of shattered obverse and clashed dies variety.
Mintage: 682,500 (Both date sizes)
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
Fortin Top 100 Seated Dime Varieties #1 - F-101c
The No Stars obverse shows the Christian Gobrecht rendering of the Thomas Sully design, while the reverse has a wreath with ONE DIME, thin long leaves with long stemmed closed berries and the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. All design elements except the date were hubbed into the master die, a technological breakthrough for the time period. First coinage of this group was 30 brilliant proofs struck on June 30, 1837 at the direction of Mint Director, Robert Patterson.
Plate Coin: Fortin-101c, Bold luster highlists finest known example of shattered obverse and clashed dies variety.
Mintage: 682,500 (Both date sizes)
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
The No Stars obverse shows the Christian Gobrecht rendering of the Thomas Sully design, while the reverse has a wreath with ONE DIME, thin long leaves with long stemmed closed berries and the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. All design elements except the date were hubbed into the master die, a technological breakthrough for the time period. First coinage of this group was 30 brilliant proofs struck on June 30, 1837 at the direction of Mint Director, Robert Patterson.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Ahwash 2, Small Date, Heavily Clashed Reverse, Original Rose/Blue Toning On Pristine Surfaces. There are two different Small Date obverse dies with one having a heavier punched date than the other. Fortin 104 is the "lighter" Small Date punch. The "heavier" Small Date obverse is sometimes attributed as a Large Date by the grading services so inspection of 1837 Large Date dimes in grading service holders is recommended.
Mintage: 489,064
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
There are two known die pairings for 1838 New Orleans coinage. Both die pairings employ the same obverse die. The initial 30 specimens of 1838-O dimes were struck on May 7-8, 1838. An additional 367,434 of Ahwash 1 were struck between June and July 1838. The final group (Ahwash 2) was struck in January 1839.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Ahwash 1, Repunched O/O, Consistent Medium Golden and Bronze Toning on Obverse and Reverse, Flawless Surfaces, Originally Holdered As ICG65, CoinFacts Plate Coin for 1838-O date.
Mintage: 489,064
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
There are two known die pairings for 1838 New Orleans coinage. Both die pairings employ the same obverse die. The initial 30 specimens of 1838-O dimes were struck on May 7-8, 1838. An additional 367,434 of Ahwash 1 were struck between June and July 1838. The final group (Ahwash 2) was struck in January 1839.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Ahwash 1, Repunched O/O, Consistent Medium Golden and Bronze Toning on Obverse and Reverse, Flawless Surfaces, Originally Holdered As ICG65, CoinFacts Plate Coin for 1838-O date.
Mintage: 1,992,500
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
Working dies of 1838 through 1840 were created from the No Stars hub of 1837. Each working die had 13 individual stars hand punched resulting in variations in star placement and size. One obverse in 1838 features smaller stars from a punch intended for half dimes and is known as the Small Stars Obverse. The Stars Obverse type was struck at the Philadelphia during 1838 through 1840 and at the New Orleans mint during 1839 and 1840. For the 1838 Philadelphia date, eight different obverse dies have been identified. Many of the obverse dies are found today with important late die states where the die shows large die cracks that tranverse the obverse. The plate coin is the final die state of Obverse 2. This obverse has been paired with three different reverse dies namely, doubled reverse paired with Small Stars Obverse, vertically cracked reverse (Ahwash 3) and the present pairing. During its late die, Obverse 2 exhibits a die crack starting from the rim to the left of the date and progressing through the base and rock and finally ending at LI(B)ERTY. Dealers often refer to this obverse die state as the "unlisted" cracked obverse due to other more significantly cracked obverse dies for this date. The only reverse diagnostic is die roughness between the letters ME in DIME.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Even Light Green and Gold Tone, Late Die State But Well Struck
Mintage: 1,992,500
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
Working dies of 1838 through 1840 were created from the No Stars hub of 1837. Each working die had 13 individual stars hand punched resulting in variations in star placement and size. One obverse in 1838 features smaller stars from a punch intended for half dimes and is known as the Small Stars Obverse. The Stars Obverse type was struck at the Philadelphia during 1838 through 1840 and at the New Orleans mint during 1839 and 1840. For the 1838 Philadelphia date, eight different obverse dies have been identified. Many of the obverse dies are found today with important late die states where the die shows large die cracks that tranverse the obverse. The plate coin is the final die state of Obverse 2. This obverse has been paired with three different reverse dies namely, doubled reverse paired with Small Stars Obverse, vertically cracked reverse (Ahwash 3) and the present pairing. During its late die, Obverse 2 exhibits a die crack starting from the rim to the left of the date and progressing through the base and rock and finally ending at LI(B)ERTY. Dealers often refer to this obverse die state as the "unlisted" cracked obverse due to other more significantly cracked obverse dies for this date. The only reverse diagnostic is die roughness between the letters ME in DIME.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Even Light Green and Gold Tone, Late Die State But Well Struck
Mintage: 1,992,500
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
Working dies of 1838 through 1840 were created from the No Stars hub of 1837. Each working die had 13 individual stars hand punched resulting in variations in star placement and size. One obverse in 1838 features smaller stars from a punch intended for half dimes and is known as the Small Stars Obverse. The Stars Obverse type was struck at the Philadelphia during 1838 through 1840 and at the New Orleans mint during 1839 and 1840. For the 1838 Philadelphia date, eight different obverse dies have been identified. Many of the obverse dies are found today with important late die states where the die shows large die cracks that tranverse the obverse.
Plate Coin: Condition Census Gem
Mintage: 1,992,500
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
Working dies of 1838 through 1840 were created from the No Stars hub of 1837. Each working die had 13 individual stars hand punched resulting in variations in star placement and size. One obverse in 1838 features smaller stars from a punch intended for half dimes and is known as the Small Stars Obverse. The Stars Obverse type was struck at the Philadelphia during 1838 through 1840 and at the New Orleans mint during 1839 and 1840. For the 1838 Philadelphia date, eight different obverse dies have been identified. Many of the obverse dies are found today with important late die states where the die shows large die cracks that tranverse the obverse.
Plate Coin: Condition Census Gem
Mintage: Unknown
A single 1838 obverse die was clashed during its life resulting in the transfer of reverse wreath details to the area below Libertys right arm. This die clash was first attributed as partial drapery and the designation has remained popular with date and variety collectors.
Plate Coin: Fortin-108a, A Near-Gem That Boasts Copper-Gray and Light Green Patina.
Mintage: 1,053,115
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
The plate coin is the earliest die state seen for Obverse 1. The 3 and 9 digits in the date show repunching. The 3 digit shows repunching below the lower loop while the 9 digit shows repunching within the upper and lower loops. Stars 5 and 6 are repunched while Star 11 shows repunching outside its star point facing Liberty. Obverse 1 is paired with Reverse A, which shows considerable wear around UNITED and AMERICA. There is a faint die crack from the wreath to AME(R)ICA. Evidence of die erosion can also be seen behind O(NE). Reverse A is rotated left 18 degrees.
Plate Coin: Fortin-101, Repunched 39 Digits, Fully Struck Gem with Original Blue, Gold and Rose Toning Throughout
Mintage: 1,053,115
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
The plate coin is the earliest die state seen for Obverse 1. The 3 and 9 digits in the date show repunching. The 3 digit shows repunching below the lower loop while the 9 digit shows repunching within the upper and lower loops. Stars 5 and 6 are repunched while Star 11 shows repunching outside its star point facing Liberty. Obverse 1 is paired with Reverse A, which shows considerable wear around UNITED and AMERICA. There is a faint die crack from the wreath to AME(R)ICA. Evidence of die erosion can also be seen behind O(NE). Reverse A is rotated left 18 degrees.
Plate Coin: Fortin-101, Repunched 39 Digits, Fully Struck Gem with Original Blue, Gold and Rose Toning Throughout
Mintage: 1,323,000
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
A total of five different obverse dies and six reverse dies have been identified for 1839 New Orleans coinage.
I have found the plate coin obverse and reverse die pair to be the most available example of all 1839-O dimes seen to date. Star 1 on Obverse 3 was punched below the crease in the rock and can be used as the primary diagnostic point. Early die state examples of Obverse 3 are typically seen with either a rim cud at 5:00 or the combination of rim cuds at 1:00 through 4:00 and at 5:00 The Large O mintmark of Reverse D is positioned sharply right and high.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Ahwash 4, Large O, Early Die State, Lustrous Silver Example, Super Strike
Mintage: 1,323,000
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
A total of five different obverse dies and six reverse dies have been identified for 1839 New Orleans coinage. 1839-O dimes with a Small O mintmark are extremely rare in mint state. The plate coin was puchased at the Heritage pre ANA auction for an amount well above price guide values and is most likely the finest Small O 1839-O dime extant.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Small O, The Strike is Needle-Sharp, Every Aspect of Libertys Head, Stars, and all the Obverse Devices are Crisp and Pronounced. On the Reverse, Every Leaf, Letter, and Berry is Bold. Both Obverse and Reverse are Toned a Sunset-Gold at the Periphery, Lighter at the Centers.
Mintage: 1,323,000
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
A total of five different obverse dies and six reverse dies have been identified for 1839 New Orleans coinage. 1839-O dimes with a Small O mintmark are extremely rare in mint state. The plate coin was puchased at the Heritage pre ANA auction for an amount well above price guide values and is most likely the finest Small O 1839-O dime extant.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Small O, The Strike is Needle-Sharp, Every Aspect of Libertys Head, Stars, and all the Obverse Devices are Crisp and Pronounced. On the Reverse, Every Leaf, Letter, and Berry is Bold. Both Obverse and Reverse are Toned a Sunset-Gold at the Periphery, Lighter at the Centers.
Mintage: 981,500
Obverse Dies: 7 Known
Seven different obverse dies are known for 1840 No Drapery coinage, including the Chin Whisker variety. For Obverse 6, date position is the only diagnostic for die identification. Look for a date that has a slight downward slope. Reverse F shows considerable weakness within the denomination letters ON of ONE.
Plate Coin: Fortin 106, Obverse 6, Lustrous White Coin, Bold Strike
Mintage: 981,500
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
Eight different obverse dies are known for 1840 No Drapery coinage, including the Chin Whisker variety. Specialist know that Obverse 7 is atypical from other 1840 No Drapery dies due to weaker device and date details. Was Obverse 7 lapped more aggressively than other working dies before employed for coinage production? Reverse G also shows considerable weakness within the devices and could support the explanation of lapping prior to usage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 107, Obverse 7, Previously NGC MS66, Superior Luster with Peripheral Ranges of Rose/Blue Toning, the Reverse Being More Accentuated
Mintage: 1,175,500
Obverse Dies: 7 Known
Obverse 4 is one of 7 different 1840 New Orleans obverse dies. This obverse comes fairly well struck but is already showing signs of die erosion around the stars. Use the repunching on Stars 9 through 11 to identify this obverse die. The reverse is also well struck with a nicely centered Small O mintmark. To date, 5 Small O reverse dies have been identified. This reverse die has begun to show die erosion. Die cracks from the rim to ERIC in AMERICA are evident.
Plate Coin: Fortin-103, Ex. Lovejoy, Small O of 1839, Even Light Gold Toning, Very Rare Mintmark Variety
Mintage: 377,500
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A modified Hughes effigy of Liberty occurred in late 1840 and is presently known as the With Drapery and Stars design group. This new portrait presents Liberty with an upright shield and broader body covered by flowing drapery. Additional fabric was added beneath Liberty's exposed right arm. The addition of the bulla to weigh down the drapery presents an important sighting point for variety attribution. Reverse modifications, though subtle, include larger denomination letters and open buds in the wreath.
Plate Coin: Fortin-101, Single Die Pair, Nice Luster Over Essentially Untoned Surfaces, A Duplicate to an NGC62 1840 WD Dime, Rare This Nice and in Grades of AU or Better
Mintage: 1,622,500
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
A total of eight different obverse dies have been identified for 1841 Philadelphia coinage.
The plate coin is an Obverse 3, repunched 184 example which is paired with a second reverse die that is rotated 18 degrees right. Reverse D is perfect during this early die state. I have found rust free reverse die examples to be difficult to locate. Most later die state examples exhibit progressive levels of damage as Reverse D is rusting. The ME in DIME and the UN in UNITED are the prime areas of inspection for determining the level of damage to Reverse D.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Repunched 184, Wonderful Rose, Green, Blue and Golden Toning
Mintage: 2,007,500
Obverse Dies: 10 Known
For 1841 New Orleans coinage, a total of ten different obverse dies and twelve reverses dies have been identified with multiple die pairings. The most significant varieties for 1841 New Orleans coinage are the Large O and Small O transitional Closed Bud reverses. Both Closed Bud reverse dies were left over reverse dies from 1840 and were paired with the same 1841 obverse die for production in early 1841 before additional reverse dies arrived from the mother mint in Philadelphia.
Plate Coin: Fortin 115, Small O, Well Struck With Light to Medium Rose, Gold and Orange Toning Throughout, Very Original
Mintage: 1,887,500
Obverse Dies: 7 Known
Seven different obverse dies have been identified for 1842 Philadelphia coinage, including the proof die. Segragating 1842 obverse dies is difficult due to minor differences in date position placement.
The 1842 plate coin variety (Ahwash 3) is always seen with a bold rim cud from Star 3 to Star 5. The date digits are heavily punched with the 84 digits touching. A faint die crack joins Stars 7 and 8 with Liberty's head. The reverse die features an abundance of die lines between the right rim and wreath. A large series of parallel die lines originate from the right rim into the letters ERICA of AMERICA. Another significant die line passes through the first S of STATES.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103a, Ahwash 3, Rim Cud at 10:00, Even White and Lustrous Example, Finding an Acceptable Upgrade has been Quite Difficult
Mintage: 2,020,000
Obverse Dies: 4 Known
Four obverse dies and potentially five reverse dies have been identified for 1842 New Orleans coinage. The key diagnostic point for Obverse 4 is the die gouge to the left of Liberty's index finger. Tim Cook pointed out the possibility of using this die gouge as an attribution point around 1998. The date placement on Obverse 4 is very similar to Obverse 3, so the die gouge marker is very useful and recommended given the additional die states of this obverse die. Obverse 4 also exhibits a large die blob defect in the right field between Liberty's knee and Star 12. Reverse E features a Medium O mintmark that is positioned right and high. Faint die cracks are just beginning to emerge on the plate coin. I have seen another earlier die state example with no reverse cracks. Both the obverse and reverse are well struck during this die state, unfortunately this does not last long as the dies are polished and subsequently degrade.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Medium O, Even Silver Gray Obverse With Light Rose Reverse Toning, Second Finest Graded at PCGS, Well Struck for 1842 O Mint
Mintage: 1,370,000
Obverse Dies: 4 Known
Obverse 4, one of four obverse dies identified to date, exhibits several key diagnostics. The 3 digit in the date is repunched north, look under the top crossbar for this evidence. Obvious die scratches are also seen from Liberty's foot to the rim, with others between Stars 12, 13 and rim. Ahwash listed this obverse as both A-3 and A-5, however I am convinced that the same die is responsible for his two separate observations. Reverse E exhibits noticeable die scratches from the rim to U(NIT)ED.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Awhash Plate Coin, Ahwash 5, Repunched 3, Untoned and Well Struck
Mintage: 1,370,000
Obverse Dies: 4 Known
Obverse 3, one of four obverse dies identified to date, exhibits a die crack through base of date digits in later die states. I believe the 1843 obverse die used to strike proof coinage was reused to strike the F-104 die pairing
Plate Coin: F-104, A new gem that is fully brilliant with lively satin-white luster shimmering across both sides.
Mintage: 150,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A single die pair was employed for 1843 New Orleans coinage. A very scarce date to obtain in problem free VF or better grade with well struck and original 1843-O examples in EF or better proving to be rare. The 1843-O is a key date in AU or better and is extremely rare in Mint State grade.
The reverse die will show progressive die cracks at the 2nd T in STATES and the M in AMERICA to rim. Die rust is evident within the central portion of the wreath leaves and around the bow knot. 1843-O dimes have a Medium O mintmark which is positioned left and high.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Strictly Original Surfaces, Gun Metal Toning, Condition Rarity and Grade For 1843 New Orleans Dime
Mintage: 72,500
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
A historically scarce date but rare during the past 15 years is a result of excessive hoarding. The recent dispersion of the CA hoard has increased availability in grades up through EF45. 1844 dimes are scarce in grades of AU or better with few Mint State examples known. This date, nicknamed the "Little Orphan Annie" dime, has been a favorite target of hoarders throughout its existence.
A single die pair was employed for business strikes while a second die pair was used for proof coinage. On the business strike obverse, die lines are seen on both the lower left and right sides of the reverse. The most significant are located between the rim and UNITED on the left side of the reverse die with additional die lines between rim and the letters ERIC in AMERICA.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Even light gray toning over original and problem free surfaces; residual luster is evident throughout. Though graded AU58, this dime is in the condition census for the date.
Mintage: 1,755,000
Obverse Dies: 6 Known
Six obverse dies and eight reverse dies are known for the 1845 date. Obverse 5, the 1845/1845 repunched date obverse die, is paired with a second reverse die. During the initial pairing, the dies appear to clash based on the diagnostics from the plate coin. Obverse die clash marks are visible to the left of Liberty's left hand and immediately right of Liberty's right elbow. On the reverse, die clashing is easily seen behind the letters ME in DIME.
Plate Coin: Fortin 108, Repunched 1845/1845, Bold Strike, Light Gold Toning Over Problem Free Surfaces
Mintage: 230,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
1845-O dimes are extremely rare in Mint State, with the Eliasberg 1845-O dime being the finest known. Several well struck AU coins have been offered at conventions and Internet auctions in the past several years. The current CoinValues pricing in AU50 through MS63 grades remains understated.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Pittman Pedigree, Well Struck Example in a Condition Census Grade, Beautiful Rose, Green and Blue Toning
Mintage: 31,300
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Only one obverse die (Obverse 1) was used for business strikes while a second obverse is seen on proof coinage. On business strikes, the 6 digit in the date has a defect between the upper loop's ball and the upper section of the lower loop. The space between the crossbar of the 4 digit and the bottom feet is partially filled. Liberty's fingers, on the right hand grasping the pole, are poorly defined. The die area between the toe and adjacent denticle appears to be defective. Die chips are found around all stars with Stars 3, 4, 5, 6 and 13 exhibiting the boldest die chips. The date on business strikes is level while on proofs (Obverse 2), the date slopes downward. Ahwash indicates that Reverse A has repunching in the legend with die cracks from the rim to the tops of (A)ME(R)I(CA). A close inspection of the plate coin revealed the presence of die lines from the tops of (A)ME(R)ICA to the rim.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Condition Census Example, Proof Like Surfaces and Well Struck, A Choice Example of the Elusive 1846 Date In High Grade
Mintage: 245,000
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
High grade 1847 examples are typically well struck with nearly full heads. The three 1847 varieties are popular due to their inclusion in the Ahwash encyclopedia.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Ahwash 2, All Digits Touch Base, Light Gray and Brown Obverse Toning, Increased Rose Toning On Reverse, Very Well Struck
Mintage: 839,000
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
Four obverse and reverse dies have been identified for 1849 business strike coinage while a separate obverse die is known for proof coinage.
In Mint State, this date is very scarce and will prove to be difficult to locate.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Ahwash 4, A Well Struck White Coin With Lustrous Surfaces
F-103b, Late Die State Rusted Obverse, Small O, Medium Gray and Light Gold Toning Over Lustrous Surfaces, Bold Strike and One of the Finest 1849-O Examples Seen to Date
Mintage: 300,000
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
In problem free EF or better, 1849-O dimes are difficult to locate. Mint State specimens are available but at a significant premium to later New Orleans Mint State dimes from 1850 through 1852. Large O examples are nearly always weakly struck on obverse and reverse. Finding a fully struck Large O dime will be very challenging and could take many years. Small O Varieties 102 and 104 are the most likely to be found well struck. Three obverse dies and two reverse dies were used to produce the 1849 New Orleans coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101b, Large O Reverse With Die Cracks, Incredible Toning Throughout and a Bold Strike for Large O Coinage, Simply One of the Finest 1849-O Examples Seen
Mintage: 1,931,500
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
For the 1850 Philapelphia date, eight obverse and nine reverse dies have been identified. Obverse 2, on the registry coin, is easy to attribute through its very high date and the 185 digits touching the base. Reverse C has heavy die flash around bow loops and knot.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103, Pittman Collection, Ahwash 3, Golden and Blue Toning Over Prooflike Surfaces, A Fine PQ Example
Mintage: 510,000
Obverse Dies: 4 Known
1850 New Orleans dimes are found with three mintmark sizes: Small, Medium and Large. Four obverse dies are paired with three Large O and one each Medium and Small O reverse dies. Mint State 1850-O dimes are considered R7 rarity regardless of mintmark size.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Fully struck and near continuous luster with few marks, a filler in PCGS registry set as primary example remains as NGC MS67 Star example.
Mintage: 1,026,500
Obverse Dies: 6 Known
A total of six obverse and seven reverse dies have been cataloged for 1851 Philadelphia coinage. This is a difficult date to research for varieties due to limited movement in the date placement. Most examples are well struck and do not show significant die cracks. Three different repunched obverse dies are known.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Repunched 851, Lustrous Golden Gray With Mint Luster in the Fields
Mintage: 1,026,500
Obverse Dies: 6 Known
A total of six obverse and seven reverse dies have been cataloged for 1851 Philadelphia coinage. This is a difficult date to research for varieties due to limited movement in the date placement. Most examples are well struck and do not show significant die cracks. Three different repunched obverse dies are known.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Repunched First 1 Digit, Outstanding Silver Gray with Iridescent Toning Accents on the Obverse and Reverse. Sharply Struck with Full Stars, Strong Head Details, and Bold Branches.
Mintage: 400,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A single die pair was employed to strike 1851 New Orleans coinage, though the obverse die appears to be polished down during its production life. In EF through AU grades, this date becomes very scarce. Only
a few example are known in Mint State. The obverse on all examples has weak drapery details between Liberty's body and right arm. This area has been polished down to a smooth appearance on the obverse die.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Well Struck From Single Die Pair In 1851, Even Light Gray Tone, the Obverse Die is Obviously Polished
Mintage: 1,535,500
Obverse Dies: 12 Known
1852 dimes are easier to locate than the tougher 1851 date. Twelve obverse and fourteen reverse dies have been cataloged at Fortin''''s variety web-book at www.seateddimevarieties.com.
Plate Coin: Fortin 116, Repunched 52 Obverse Paired With Unlisted Reverse Die, Still Under Study, Incredible Toning and Strike For MS64 Graded Seated Dime
Mintage: 430,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A single 1852 obverse die is paired with two Large O reverse dies for New Orleans coinage. The two reverse dies are easy to distinguish. The first has a Large O mintmark that is well centered and high with no tilt. Examples for the second reverse die are much more difficult to locate. It has a Large O mint mark that is positioned right and tilts sharply left. 1852-O dimes are rare in Mint State grade.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Untoned White Specimen With Reflective Fields
Mintage: 430,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A single 1852 obverse die is paired with two Large O reverse dies for New Orleans coinage. The two reverse dies are easy to distinguish. The first has a Large O mintmark that is well centered and high with no tilt. Examples for the second reverse die are much more difficult to locate. It has a Large O mint mark that is positioned right and tilts sharply left. 1852-O dimes are rare in Mint State grade.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Impressive Strike with Rose and Violet Toning Throughout
Mintage: 95,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
1853 No Arrows dimes are scarce in circulated grades but much more available in Mint State grades than their low mintage would suggest. Two obverse dies and a single reverse die are currently known. Ahwash indicates that 55,000 pieces were delivered on February 17 while the remaining 40,000 pieces when issued on February 19, 1853 before conversion to the lower silver weight planchets.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Ahwash 1, Even Light Bronze Tone on Both Obverse and Reverse, Strike Consistent With Grade
Mintage: 1,100,000
Obverse Dies: 4 Known
The 1853 New Orleans date is rarely found with full head detail and a strong strike. Of the four known obverse dies, dimes from Obverse 2 typically show full heads and strong dates even though this die does shatter with usage. Dimes from Obverse 1 are almost always seen with little or no head detail and haloing around the left stars. Obverses 3 and 4 exhibit weak dates.
The date and arrows placement on 1853 New Orleans dimes is consistent across all obverse dies as seen with the hubbed subset of 1853 With Arrows Philadelphia dies. At this point in time, it can be concluded that the date and arrows were placed into the hub die for New Orleans obverse dies. Interestingly, both reverse dies from 1852 are again used by the New Orleans mint to strike 1853 coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Reverse of 1852, Even Gun Metal Gray Tone
Mintage: 1,100,000
Obverse Dies: 4 Known
The 1853 New Orleans date is rarely found with full head detail and a strong strike. Of the four known obverse dies, dimes from Obverse 2 typically show full heads and strong dates even though this die does shatter with usage. Dimes from Obverse 1 are almost always seen with little or no head detail and haloing around the left stars. Obverses 3 and 4 exhibit weak dates.
The date and arrows placement on 1853 New Orleans dimes is consistent across all obverse dies as seen with the hubbed subset of 1853 With Arrows Philadelphia dies. At this point in time, it can be concluded that the date and arrows were placed into the hub die for New Orleans obverse dies. Interestingly, both reverse dies from 1852 are again used by the New Orleans mint to strike 1853 coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103, Eliasberg Pedigree in OGH. Both Obverse and Reverse are Fully Struck for F-103 Variety Which is Extremely Difficult to Locate. Original Rose/Gold Toning Over Lustrous Surfaces. Many Years of Searching for a Fully Struck Mint State 1853-O Dime has Come to an End.
Mintage: 4,470,000
Obverse Dies: 11 Known
Both the date and arrows were placed on the master hub for 1854 dimes resulting in a consistent positioning of these devices on the obverse die. Variations in date hubbing strength on the working dies produced strong and weak date transfers.
Plate Coin: Lightly Gold Toned Gem Example
Mintage: 1,770,000
Obverse Dies: 10 Known
As with 1854 Philadelphia, on 1854 New Orleans coinage the date and arrows were placed on the master hub dimes resulting in a consistent placement of these devices on the obverse die. Variations in the strength of the date hubbing of the working dies produced strong and weak dates.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Die Crack Through 8 Digit In The Date, Very Well Struck With Even Luster Throughout, Light Gold/Brown Toning On Reverse
Mintage: 2,075,000
Obverse Dies; 8 Known
Both the date and arrows were placed on the master hub for 1855 dimes resulting in a consistent positioning of these devices on the obverse die. Variations in date hubbing strength on the working dies produced strong and weak date transfers. The working die preparation process produced at least three 1855 obverse dies with doubling in the date or shield. 1855 dimes are much more difficult to find sharply struck than their 1853 or 1854 With Arrows counterparts.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101a, Obverse Die Used For Proof Strikes, Satiny Luster on Both the Obverse and Reverse of This Near-Gem. The Strike is Sharp and the Surfaces are Problem Free. Lightly Patinated in Golden-Gray Hues
Mintage: 5,780,000 (Including Large Dates)
Small Date Obverse Dies: 22 Known
During 1856, both Large Date and Small Date dimes were struck. Large Date dimes are rare in Mint State and the recent upward adjustment in Coin World Values pricing is more reflective of their scarcity. Small Date examples are much more common than Large Dates in both circulated and Mint State grades.
Four 1856 Large Date obverse dies and twenty two Small Date obverse dies have been identified to date.
Plate Coin: Small Date, Fortin 103, High Level Date, Evenly Toned Medium Gray and Strictly Original
Mintage: 5,780,000 (Including Large Dates)
Large Date Obverse Dies: 4 Known
During 1856, both Large Date and Small Date dimes were struck. Large Date dimes are rare in Mint State and the recent upward adjustment in Coin World Values pricing is more reflective of their scarcity. Small Date examples are much more common than Large Dates in both circulated and Mint State grades.
Four 1856 Large Date obverse dies and twenty two Small Date obverse dies have been identified to date.
Plate Coin: Large Date, Fortin 102, Greer Plate Coin, Low Population, Light Rose and Gray Toning Throughout, A Choice PQ AU58 Coin That I Find Hard to Upgrade
Mintage: 5,780,000 (Including Large Dates)
Large Date Obverse Dies: 4 Known
During 1856, both Large Date and Small Date dimes were struck. Large Date dimes are rare in Mint State and the recent upward adjustment in Coin World Values pricing is more reflective of their scarcity. Small Date examples are much more common than Large Dates in both circulated and Mint State grades.
Four 1856 Large Date obverse dies and twenty two Small Date obverse dies have been identified to date.
Plate Coin: F-104, Very High Large Date, Low Mint State Population, Light Mottled Rose and Gray Toning Throughout Over Problem Free Surfaces
Mintage: 1,180,000
Obverse Dies: 6 Known
A better date in the Seated Dime series and challenging to locate in grades of EF or higher. The Large O has historically been more available than the Medium O, which is rare in EF or better. However a significant number of Medium O dimes have surfaced recently.
Six different obverse and reverse dies have been identified for 1856 New Orleans coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Large O, Difficult Variety in Mint State, Incredible Original Toning, Satiny Luster, Predominantly Blue, Green Obverse Tone, Reddish Orange on the Reverse
Mintage: 70,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
1856-S dimes are very challenging to locate in general and become rare above VF and extremely rare in Mint State. A single set of obverse and reverse dies were used for 1856 San Francisco coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101a, Graded MS62 In Old PCGS Green Label Holder, Sharply Struck, Lustrous and Brilliant Surfaces With Gentle Splashes Of Warm Rose And Pale Iridescence, Formerly in Frog Run Collection
Mintage: 5,580,000
Obverse Dies: 16 Known
A common date in all grades, sixteen separate obverse dies being documented, though more obverse dies will be identified in the future.
Plate Coin: Fortin 116, A Well Struck and Lustrous Antebellum Gem that Exhibits Russet and Tan Patina at the Periphery.
Mintage: 1,540,000
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
1857 New Orleans coinage is found with Large and Medium reverses. The Medium O is moderately scarcer than the Large O in circulated grades and is very scarce in Mint State. The Large O is more available in Mint State.
Five obverse dies and six reverse dies have been identified for 1857 New Orleans coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Later Die State of Doubled Die Obverse Paired With 2nd Large O Reverse, Peripheral Rose and Blue Toning on Obverse While Reverse is Untoned and Lustrous
Mintage: 1,540,000
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
1857 New Orleans coinage is found with Large and Medium reverses. The Medium O is moderately scarcer than the Large O in circulated grades and is very scarce in Mint State. The Large O is more available in Mint State.
Five obverse dies and six reverse dies have been identified for 1857 New Orleans coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101a, A Sharp and Gorgeous Gem with Rich Underlying Lustre Supporting a Wealth of Peach, Gold, and Pale Rose Iridescence Tone.
Mintage: 1,540,000
Obverse Dies: 10 Known
Variety collectors will be limited to date position variations for 1858 dimes. Most dates slope downward, making the task of obverse die attribution difficult. 1858 dimes with die cracks are scarce since the limited mintage of 1,540,000 pieces appears to have been evenly produced across the nine business strike obverse dies.
Plate Coin: Fortin 110, An Incredible Dime With Superior Eye Appeal Beyond Its MS63 Assigned Grade
Mintage: 60,000
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
1858 San Francisco dimes are very scarce in any grade. In grades of VF or better, 1858-S dimes are more difficult to locate than either the 1856 or 1859 San Francisco dates. Extremely rare in Mint State as few examples are known.
Three obverse dies were paired with two reverses dies.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Choice About Uncirculated Example With Medium Gold/Brown Toning, Original and Problem Free, Formerly in Tim Cook Collection
Mintage: 480,000
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
A fairly common date in the With Stars series, however 1859 New Orleans dimes become very scarce in EF or better. The Medium and Large O mintmarks are equally available with a slight edge to the Medium O in difficulty. This date is available in Mint State with some searching.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Large O, Light Gold Toning, Well Struck
Mintage: 60,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
The second rarest San Francisco mint Seated dime above VF grade after the 1858-S date. Extremely rare in Mint State with few certified by the top grading services. A single die pair is known for the 1859 San Francisco coinage.
In the past three years, several certified AU examples have appeared at auction bringing strong monies well above Coin World's CoinValues. A lone example is known in PCGS MS65 grade and sold in excess of $50,000 at auction.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, White and Lustrous With Faint Gray Toning Near the Rims, Bold Strike With No Signs of Reverse Roughness as is Typical for This Date
Mintage: 140,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
The last With Stars San Francisco date before the transition to the With Legend obverse and the Cereal Wreath reverse design. A difficult date in circulated grades becoming rare in Mint State. Two pairs of obverse and reverse dies were employed for 1860 San Francisco coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Well Struck, Pleasing Silver-Gray With Subtle Powder-Blue and Peach Accents, and Satiny Surfaces
Mintage: 607,000
Obverse Dies: 9 Known
For 1860 Philadelphia coinage, the obverse stars of the Hughes design were replaced by the statutory legend of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA by Longacre. The initial Type I obverse exhibited 5 vertical lines above LIBERTY in shield. All Type I obverse With-Legend Seated dimes come with a very "delicate" relief that wears down quickly. Very few examples are seen with poor strikes or die cracks. The mintage to die ratio is low (67,444 per die), which could explain the quality of surviving examples.
Plate Coin: Fortin 109, Repunched Date, Well Struck and Fully Lustrous Example
Mintage: 607,000
Obverse Dies: 10 Known
For 1860 Philadelphia coinage, the obverse stars of the Hughes design were replaced by the statutory legend of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA by Longacre. The initial Type I obverse exhibited 5 vertical lines above LIBERTY in shield. All Type I obverse With-Legend Seated dimes come with a very "delicate" relief that wears down quickly. Very few examples are seen with poor strikes or die cracks. The mintage to die ratio is low (67,444 per die), which could explain the quality of surviving examples.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Fully Struck Gem with Bold Luster, CAC
Mintage: 40,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
The 1860 New Orleans date is scarce in the lower circulated grades and often comes porous due to examples being dug out of
the ground. Rare in problem free EF-AU and becomes extremely rare in Mint State. One of the key dates to the Liberty Seated Dime series.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Original brown and golden toning throughout with mark free field. Light wear and fully deserving of AU50 designation. A specimen that will not be upgraded in my lifetime.
Mintage: 40,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
The 1860 New Orleans date is scarce in the lower circulated grades and often comes porous due to examples being dug out of
the ground. Rare in problem free EF-AU and becomes extremely rare in Mint State. One of the key dates to the Liberty Seated Dime series.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Original brown and golden toning throughout with mark free field. Light wear and fully deserving of AU50 designation. A specimen that will not be upgraded in my lifetime.
Mintage: 1,884,000 (Both obverse types)
Obverse Dies Type I: 7 Known
Obverse Dies Type II: 11 Known
In 1861, Longacre changed the obverse hub to improve striking quality. During that year, obverse dies were produced from both the Type I and Type II obverse hubs. The old hub (Type I) of 1861 has 5 vertical lines in the upper part of the shield above the banner. Liberty's index finger also fell on the outside of the left shield edge. On the new hub (Type II) of 1861, there are 6 vertical lines above the banner. Liberty's
index finger points straight down along the left edge of the shield. The letters on the Type I hub are thinner than the letters on the Type II hub.
Die variety research has revealed that the mint used eleven Type II obverse dies vs. six Type I obverse dies or about a 2:1 ratio. This observation supports the fact that Type II 1861 dimes are easier to locate than their Type I counterparts.
Plate Coin: Fortin 106, Type II Obverse, Wonderfully original and richly toned, both sides are veiled in a blend of copper-rose, cobalt-blue and olive-gold colors that are a bit more vivid on the reverse. Highly lustrous with a well-frosted texture
Mintage: 172,500
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
The 1861 dimes from San Francisco were struck from two Type I obverse dies and a single reverse die. This date is scarce in circulated grades and become very scarce in VF or better. Very rare in Mint State. This is the toughest San Francisco branch mint date in the 1860's to locate.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Condition Census Example With Lustrous, Satiny Surfaces, Well Struck With Hints of Delicate Golden-Russet Toning at the Base of the Reverse
Mintage: 847,550
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
Nearly all 1862 dimes come well struck. Many examples are found with prooflike surfaces. To date, eight different obverse dies have been identified for Philadelphia coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102a, Business Strike From Proof Dies, Strictly Original As Expected With MS66 Grade, Medium Gray/Rose/Lavender Toning Over Soft Luster
Mintage: 180,750
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
1862 San Francisco dimes are very similar in scarcity to 1861 San Francisco examples and are considered very rare (R7+) in Mint State.
Infrequently, 1862-S dime can be found with a rotated reverse. Three examples have surfaced over the past ten years or so.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Even Gold Toning With Peripheral Deeper Gray, Strictly Original With Bold Strike, Formerly in the Richmond, Waldo Bolen and Norweb Collections
Mintage: 14,460
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A difficult and rare date for business strike. Proof examples are more available than business strikes. A single pair of Philadelphia dies were used to strike both the proof and business strike coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin F-101a, Peripheral Toning in Mottled Cobalt-Blue Shades, Well Struck Obverse. Single Die Pair for Year.
Mintage: 157,500
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
Strike weakness is common for 1863 San Francisco coinage. Examples are often seen with a flat head and weakness in the letters (OF AME)RICA. Reverse weakness will be found on the bow knot and lower wreath. Only one die pair is known.
Scarce in all circulated grades and becomes difficult in problem free EF-AU. Another San Francisco mint date that is rare in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, A Silky, Satiny Specimen With Intense Cartwheel Luster. Faint Sky Blue, Gold and Rose Toning, Well Struck Throughout. Formerly in the Frog Run, Lovejoy and Reed Hawn Collections
Mintage: 11,470
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
1864 Philadelphia dimes are found well struck and will exhibit surfaces that are typically prooflike or semi prooflike.
Two obverse and reverse dies are known for the 1864 date. Ahwash believed that both busines and proofs were struck from each set of dies. However I have only been able to locate business strikes from one of the die pairs.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102a, Gem Example of Ahwash 2, Fully Struck With Surfaces That Are Exceptionally Clean. Satin-Like Mint Luster and Lightly Die Clashed as Many of This Variety Are.
Mintage: 10,500
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two sets of dies were used to strike 1865 Philadelphia coinage. This date comes well struck when it can be located. Business strikes are currently in strong demand and are difficult to locate.
The two 1865 die pairs will be found in progressive die states and have produced interesting varieties. The first pair (Obverse 1/Reverse A) was thought to have been used for both proof and business strike coinage by Ahwash, however I have only seen business strikes from these dies. The die pair becomes heavily clashed during its end of life for business strikes. The second die pair (Obverse 2/Reverse B) was though to have also produced both proofs and business strikes by Ahwash. However, I have only seen proofs from this die pair, with a spectacular 180 degree rotated reverse variety being known for the die pair.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101a, Repunched Date, Condition Census, Wonderful Luster and Cameo Effect
Mintage: 175,000
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
For 1865 San Francisco coinage, three obverse and reverse dies were used, one of the reverse dies being "left over" from 1861. These die produced five different obverse/reverse pairings.
In general, 1865-S dimes are typically seen with flat heads and a weak mintmark. This observation can be explained by the higher availability of Variety 101. Locating an example of Variety 101 with a full head could take years.
Finding AU or better 1865-S dimes in choice original condition could take years of searching. Most examples seen have been cleaned, though the grading services still certify some examples in this state of preservation.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, White and Well Struck, Extremely Rare Full Head Example in a Condition Census Grade, Formerly Eliasberg Collection
Mintage: 8,725
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two pairs of dies used for 1866 Philadelphia coinage. Both pairs of dies produced proof strikes while only one pair was employed for business strikes. Rare as a business strike in circulated grades and Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102a, Well Struck, Attractive Light Gray Patina, With Blue, Violet and Gold Highlights
Mintage: 135,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two obverse and reverse dies used in 1866 by the San Francisco mint to produce three die pairing varieties.
The two reverse dies can be easily distinguished by the appearance of the mintmark. There is a weak mintmark reverse (Small Weak S) and a bold mintmark reverse (Small Thin S). Most 1866 San Francisco dimes will come from the reverse with a weak mintmark as Varieties 101 and 103 are more common than 102.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Downward Sloping Date, Weak Mintmark, Light Mottled Rose and Gold Toning Throughout, Finest Certified By PCGS
Mintage: 6,625
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
Three sets of dies were employed for 1867 Philadelphia coinage. Only one die pairing is known for business strikes (Variety 102). Business strikes are rare in all circulated grades. Mint State examples are considered to be very scarce and can be located with patience.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Ahwash 2, Light Brownish Gold Toning, Well Struck, Clashed Dies
Mintage: 140,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two obverse dies and one reverse die are known for 1867 San Francisco coinage. All 1867 San Francisco dime come with a strong mintmark, even in the lower circulated grades. Variety 101 is typically found with weakness at Liberty's head and on the bow knot. Well struck examples of Variety 102 can be located.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Ahwash 2, Fully Struck With Wonderful Subtle Luster and Light Gold Toning, A Strictly Original Example
Mintage: 464,600
Obverse Dies: 12 Known
The 1868 Philadelphia date has been full of surprises. The twelve known obverse dies are extremely high given a moderate mintage of 464,600 pieces. It could be speculated that the Philadelphia mint planned to significantly increase Seated dime production in 1868 after the low mintage years of 1863 through 1867. Many die pairs were produced but saw limited usage as evidenced by the striking quality of 1868 dimes and the complete lack of late die state or cracked dies.
Plate Coin: Fortin 112, Wonderful Gem Example, Hints of Obverse Toning, Reverse Untoned
Mintage: 260,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A single die pair was used for 1868 San Francisco coinage. This date is scarce in the lower circulated grade and becomes very scarce in EF-AU, rare in Mint State and presently underrated in CoinValues.
For years a separate doubled reverse die was listed by Breen and Greer. In 2005, research revealed that the doubled reverse die was caused by strike doubling and not die doubling via a shifted second hubbing of the reverse die.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Fully Struck and Lustrous, High End PQ Is Best Way To Describe This Rare Date In Mint State. Purchased in an ICG MS65 Holder.
Mintage: 256,600
Obverse Dies: 6 Known
Two different date punches were used for the 1869 Philadelphia dies resulting in Short and Long Flag 1 date varieties. The Short Flag 1 varieties are difficult to locate in higher grades and are extremely challenging to find with a full head.
The 1869 date is difficult to locate in the lower circulated grades and scarcer than its mintage would imply. This date is very scarce in EF-AU and becomes extremely scarce in Mint State. Mint State examples still remain undervalued at current pricing levels.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105a, Long Flag 1, Prooflike Fields, Essentially Untoned
Mintage: 450,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two sets of dies were used for 1869 San Francisco coinage. The reverse dies can be identified by a Small Thin S and and a Small Weak S mintmark. The Small Thin S is much more common than the Small Weak S.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, Bold Strike and Luster With Faint Traces Of Gold Patina, Weak S Mintmark, Reverse of 1870-S and 1871-S
Mintage: 471,500
Obverse Dies: 7 Known
Seven obverse dies have been identified for 1870 Philadelphia coinage. This date is very scarce in Mint State but more available than the 1869 Philadelphia date.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Lustrous with Golden Hue
Mintage: 50,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
The 1870 San Francisco date is very scarce in all grades and becomes rare in EF or better. In Mint State, the release of a small hoard allows some availability, though the date is still considered rare.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Well Struck, Bold Luster with Light Golden Toning
Mintage: 907,710
Obverse Dies: 13 Known
To date, thirteen obverse dies have been documented for 1871 Philadelphia coinage. A relatively common date in lower grades that becomes scarce in EF or better. This date is very scarce in Mint State and has proven to be elusive during the past few years.
Plate Coin: Fortin 109, Well Struck, White and Lustrous
Mintage: 20,100
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
All Carson City dimes from 1871 through 1874 are found with wider reeding than coinage from the Philadelphia or San Francisco mints. Additionally, only one reverse die was used to strike the Carson City mintage for those four years. Both of these characteristics can be used as a diagnostic to verify genuine Carson City dimes from 1871 through 1874. Carson City dimes are typically found with surface porosity as many have been recovered from the ground. Larry Briggs also notes in his Comprehensive Encyclopedia of United States Liberty Seated Quarters that "The Carson City mint was known to shortcut their annealing process and instead of using 90% silver, 10% copper mixture, used pure Comstock silver."
Without copper in the alloy to harden the silver, Carson City dimes would be highly susceptible to environmental factors.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Original Gunmetal Gray Toning with Problem Free Surfaces For An 1871 Carson City Dime, One of the Highlights of the Fortin PCGS Registry Set
Mintage: 320,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two sets of obverse and reverse dies for 1871 San Francisco coinage producing three separate die pairing varieties. A scarce date that is more difficult to locate than its mintage would suggest. Rare and underrated in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Repunched 18, Well Struck For 1871-S, Silver Centers with Radial Brown Toning
Mintage: 35,480
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
In the lower circulated grades, the 1872 Carson City dime is more available than its 1871, 1873 With Arrows and 1874 counterparts. However in grades of EF or better, the 1872 Carson City dime becomes extremely rare. This date is excessively rare in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Conditionally Rare, Moderate Layer Of Original Gray Toning on Both Obverse and Reverse
Mintage: 190,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
A single die pair was employed for 1872 San Francisco coinge. This is a difficult date to locate in all circulated grades and consistent in scarcity with the 1871 San Francisco date. 1872 San Francisco Seated dimes are rare in Mint State condition as demonstrated by the low NGC and PCGS populations.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Hints of Lilac and Gold Patina Over Problem Free Surfaces, Bold Strike, Obverse Die Cracks
Mintage: 1,508,000 (Closed 3) and 60,000 (Open 3)
Obverse Dies: 8 Known (Closed 3) and 3 Known (Open 3)
1873 Philadelphia dimes without arrows are found with an Open 3 and Closed 3 digit. For years the Open 3 variety has been afforded a premium over the Closed 3 variety due to the low reported Open 3 mintage. In circulated grades, I would question if the premium is warranted and secondly, question if the reported Open 3 mintage of 60,000 was properly recorded or estimated. In Mint State, Open 3 dimes are much rarer than their Closed 3 counterparts.
Plate Coin: Closed 3, Fortin 105, Very Sharp Strike
Mintage: 1,508,000 (Closed 3) and 60,000 (Open 3)
Obverse Dies: 8 Known (Closed 3) and 3 Known (Open 3)
1873 Philadelphia dimes without arrows are found with an Open 3 and Closed 3 digit. For years the Open 3 variety has been afforded a premium over the Closed 3 variety due to the low reported Open 3 mintage. In circulated grades, I would question if the premium is warranted and secondly, question if the reported Open 3 mintage of 60,000 was properly recorded or estimated. In Mint State, Open 3 dimes are much rarer than their Closed 3 counterparts.
Plate Coin: Open 3, Fortin 101, Well Struck, White Coin, Cracked Reverse
Mintage: 2,378,500
Obverse Dies: 23 Known
A common date in all grades except Mint State. 1873 With Arrows Mint State examples are more difficult to locate than their 1874 With Arrows counterpart. To date, twenty-three obverse dies have been identified after years of diligent searching.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Repunched 1, Traces of Repunching Are Visible Above the Left and Right Bases of the 1 Digit. Soft Light Gray Tone Throughout, Well Struck
Mintage: 18,791
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
Genuine 1873 With Arrows Carson City dimes will always come with wide reeding and a die crack through the mintmark. This die crack should be visible on all circulated grade examples.
In circulated grades from G through VF, the 1873 With Arrows Carson City date is very scarce and becomes rare in EF. In Mint State, this date is excessively rare with few examples known to exist.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Medium Gray and Brown Toning, Problem Free and Quality Surfaces For 1873 Carson City Dime
Mintage: 455,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two obverse and reverse die pairs were employed for 1873 With Arrows San Francisco coinage. The reverse dies have been labeled as Small Block S and Small Thin S due to their mintmark shapes.
Mint State examples are available with the Small Block S variety being slightly more difficult than the Small Thin S.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Repunched 1, Ahwash 1, Small Thin S Mintmark, Well Struck Example With Light Gold/Gray Toning
Mintage: 2,940,000
Obverse Dies: 13 Known
The 1874 With Arrows Philadelphia date is common in all grades. More available in AU Mint State grades than the 1873 With Arrows date. To date, thirteen different obverse dies have been identified.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103, Repunched 74, White With Hint Of Light Gray Toning
Mintage: 10,817
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
The key date to the Liberty Seated Dime series. 1874 Carson City dimes are rare in all grades and are almost always encountered with surface problems. Extremely rare in Mint State.
Always under strong collector demand with problem free examples bringing in excess of trend sheet prices. During 2003 and 2004, there was a rapid escalation of pricing for problem free 1874 Carson City dimes. During 2005, it appears that those pricing gains had stabilized but auction results in 2006 have shown another round of pricing increases.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Problem Free Surfaces With Old Light Brown/Gray Toning, Well Struck for 1874 Carson City Issue
Mintage: 240,000
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
Two sets of obverse and reverse dies were employed for 1874 San Francisco coinage. The reverse dies are identified as Small Thin S and Micro S due to the mintmark shape and sizes.
The strike quality of the 1874 San Francisco dimes is much poorer than Philadelphia examples. Both the Small Thin S and Micro S varieties (when it can be located) are often seen with uneven strikes and weakness in Liberty's head. Strike weakness can be acute on Small Thin S reverses.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Micro S, A Gem Example with Even Bronze Toning Highlighting a Full Struck Throughout, CAC Certified
Mintage: 10,350,700
Obverse Dies: 19 Known
1875 Philadelphia dimes are common in all grades including Mint State. It is expected that additional date position varieties will continue to surface.
Plated Coin: Fortin 107, Untoned and Very Choice Example of Extra 1 Digit In Denticles Variety, One of the Finest Examples of the Key MPD Variety for Liberty Seated Dimes.
Mintage: 10,350,700
Obverse Dies: 21 Known
1875 Philadelphia dimes are common in all grades including Mint State. It is expected that additional date position varieties will continue to surface as I have not made a priority of researching 1875 die varieties.
Plate Coin: F-124, Well struck gem example with golden obverse and reverse centers that transition to peripheral rose, blues and green tones.
Mintage: 4,645,000 (both In and Below Wreath Varieties)
Obverse Dies: 10 In Wreath and 7 Below Wreath Known
1875 Carson City dimes will be found with the CC mintmark "In the Wreath" and "Below the Wreath". A common date and variety in all grades. The In Wreath variety is much more available than the Below Wreath variety though the Below Wreath is still fairly common in the lower circulated grades.
Plate Coin: Fortin 106, CC Mintmark In Wreath, Light Blue and Rose Toning Over Magnificent Surfaces, Wonderful Gem in Second Generation PCGS Holder
Mintage: 4,645,000 (both In and Below Wreath Varieties)
Obverse Dies: 10 In Wreath and 7 Below Wreath Known
1875 Carson City dimes will be found with the CC mintmark "In the Wreath" and "Below the Wreath". A common date and variety in all grades. The In Wreath variety is much more available than the Below Wreath variety though the Below Wreath is still fairly common in the lower circulated grades.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, CC Mintmark Below Wreath, White Coin With Subtle Gold Highlights, Nice Luster, Third Generation Holder
Mintage: 4,645,000 (both In and Below Wreath Varieties)
Obverse Dies: 10 In Wreath and 7 Below Wreath Known
1875 Carson City dimes will be found with the CC mintmark "In the Wreath" and "Below the Wreath". A common date and variety in all grades. The In Wreath variety is much more available than the Below Wreath variety though the Below Wreath is still fairly common in the lower circulated grades.
Plate Coin: Fortin 106, CC Mintmark Below Wreath, a Lovely Dime that Exhibits Heavy Satin Luster Beneath Variable Antique Silver Color and a Sharp Strike.
Mintage: 9,070,000 (both In and Below Wreath Varieties)
Obverse Dies: 2 In Wreath and 13 Below Wreath Known
1875 San Francisco dimes will be found with the S mintmark "In the Wreath" and "Below the Wreath". A common date and variety in all grades. The Below Wreath variety is very common and more available than the In Wreath variety. Some Below Wreath dimes will be found with a Micro S mintmark. Additional variety research is necessary for 1875-S Below Wreath dimes.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Micro S Variety, White and Lustrous, One of the Finest Micro S Examples Graded
Mintage: 9,070,000 (both In and Below Wreath Varieties)
Obverse Dies: 2 In Wreath and 13 Below Wreath Known
1875 San Francisco dimes will be found with the S mintmark "In the Wreath" and "Below the Wreath". A common date and variety in all grades. The Below Wreath variety is very common and more available than the In Wreath variety. Some Below Wreath dimes will be found with a Micro S mintmark. Additional variety research is necessary for 1875-S Below Wreath dimes.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103a, S In Wreath, Shattered Reverse, Rare Population Example, Gem With Brilliant Silver Luster and Satiny Surfaces
Mintage: 11,461,150
Obverse Dies: 16 Known With Type I Reverse and 5 Known With Type II Reverse
Starting in 1876, two different reverse hub styles appeared and were entitled Type I and Type II by Kam Ahwash. The different reverse hubs were used by all mints from 1876 through 1878, except for the 1877 coinage produced at the San Francisco mint.
1876 Philadelphia coinage is common in all grades. The Type I reverse is very common while the Type II reverse is considered
scarce.
Plate Coin: Fortin 116, Type I Reverse, White Luster With Hints Of Gold At The Rims, Significant Obverse Die Scratch On Liberty, Doubled Die Reverse and Clashed Dies
Mintage: 10,420,000
Obverse Dies: 17 Known With Type I Reverse and 3 Known With Type II Reverse
Starting in 1876, two different reverse hub styles appeared. The two different hub reverse styles were entitled Type I and Type II by Kam Ahwash. The different reverse hubs were used by all mints from 1876 through 1878, except for the 1877 coinage produced at the San Francisco mint. Only the Type II reverse hub has been found to date for 1877-S dimes.
1876 San Francisco coinage is common in all grades. The Type I reverse is very common, while the Type II reverse is considered to be very scarce.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Soft Rose Tone
Mintage: 7,310,510
Obverse Dies: 7 Known With Type I Reverse and 13 Known With Type II Reverse
1877 Philadelphia dimes are common in all grades except Mint State. The Type I Reverse is more difficult to locate than the Type II Reverse, however examples of the Type I reverse can be located with some searching.
Plate Coin: Fortin 106, Type I Reverse. A Gem Example With Satiny Luster and Faint Brown Toning on the Obverse and Reverse. Sharply Struck.
Mintage: 7,700,000
Obverse Dies: 7 Known With Type I Reverse and 14 Known With Type II Reverse
1877 Carson City dimes are common in all grades including Mint State. The Type I Reverse is slightly scarcer than Type II Reverse examples, however the Type I reverse is still fairly common and straightforward to locate. The number of known obverse dies paired with Type II reverse dies will continue to increase as more research occurs.
Plate Coin: Early Die State of Ahwash 7 Obverse Paired With an Unlisted Cracked Reverse Die, Subtle Light Rose/Lavendar Tone Over Problem Free Surfaces, A Really Nice PQ Coin for the Variety
Mintage: 7,700,000
Obverse Dies: 7 Known With Type I Reverse and 14 Known With Type II Reverse
1877 Carson City dimes are common in all grades including Mint State. The Type I Reverse is slightly scarcer than Type II Reverse examples, however the Type I reverse is still fairly common and straightforward to locate. The number of known obverse dies paired with Type II reverse dies will continue to increase as more research occurs.
Plate Coin: Type II Reverse, Fortin 109, The 77 digit in the date are lightly repunched. A wonderful Carson City Seated dime that has vibrant luster and a bold strike. The tan-gold and cream-gray fields and devices are framed by rich peripheral sea-green patina. What a lovely additional to the PCGS registry set after years of waiting for a beautifully toned example.
Mintage: 2,340,500
Obverse Dies: 10 Known Only With Type II Reverse
The 1877 San Francisco date is difficult to locate in nice EF-AU condition. Greer considers the 1877-S date as "One of the most challenging common dates to locate". It has been speculated that significant melting of this coinage took place to supply silver for minting of Morgan silver dollars in 1878.
All 1877 San Francisco examples will be found with a Type II reverse.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Light Gold Toning Throughout, Very Well Struck, Conservative Grading
Mintage: 2,340,500
Obverse Dies: 10 Known Only With Type II Reverse
The 1877 San Francisco date is difficult to locate in nice EF-AU condition. Greer considers the 1877-S date as "One of the most challenging common dates to locate". It has been speculated that significant melting of this coinage took place to supply silver for minting of Morgan silver dollars in 1878.
All 1877 San Francisco examples will be found with a Type II reverse.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Repunched 18 Digits, A Top 100 Variety, Light Rose/Gold Toning Throughout, Well Struck Gem
Mintage: 1,678,000
Obverse Dies: 4 Known With Type I Reverse and 10 Known With Type II Reverse
1878 Philadelphia dimes are considered a tougher "common" date to locate. The Type I reverse variety is very scarce in all grades including a R6 designation in Mint State. Examples of 1878 dimes with a Type I reverse should command a premium. In general, nice higher grade 1878 dimes are currently underrated when valued at common date pricing.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103, Type I Reverse, Well Struck Even Light Gold Toning Throughout
Mintage: 200,000
Obverse Dies: 1 Each Known With Type I and Type II Reverses
1878 Carson City dimes are found with well struck obverses, including Liberty's head. There are four known reverse dies; one being a Type I, the balance are Type II reverse dies. The three different Type II reverse dies all exhibit weakness in the left wreath due to polishing. The polishing or lapping of these reverse dies is most evident on Variety 104, the shattered reverse die from 1877.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Polished Reverse Die, Type II Reverse, Lustrous and Well Struck
Mintage: 15,100
Obverse Dies: 5 Known
Despite its low mintage, 1879 Philadelphia dimes are readily available in Mint State and scarce in circulated grades. Surprisingly, five obverse dies were used to strike a very limited amount of coinage. One of the five obverse dies was discovered in 2005.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, Die Pair Variety Identified In 2005, A Mauve-Golden Specimen that Offers Satin Reflection and Bold Definition of Design Elements, Ex. Lemus Collection
Mintage: 37,355
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
1880 Philadelphia dimes are scarce in all grades, but are more available than the 1879 and 1881 dates. Mint State examples can located without difficulty.
Three obverse dies are paired with two reverse dies to produce business strike and proof coinage.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103, Low Date, Pearl White Gem Coin
Mintage: 24,975
Obverse Dies: 2 Known
1881 Philadelphia dimes are more difficult to locate than the 1879 and 1880 dates in all grades. In Mint State, I've found the 1881 date to be very challenging to find. PCGS and NGC population reports confirm this observation.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101a, Pure White Gem
Mintage: 7,615,712
Obverse Dies: 20 Known
1883 Philadelphia dimes are common in all grades. With a mintage in excess of 7.6 million, the task of identifying the obverse dies is considerable and will take additional time.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Broken 3, Lustrous and Satiny Surfaces, Well Struck
Mintage: 3,366,380
Obverse Dies: 11 Known
1884 San Francisco dimes are common date in all grades, finding well struck examples in higher grades could be challenging. Most reverse dies are seen with die cracks. Weakness in the reverse denomination is common. Another common Seated Dime date that needs incremental study to complete the task of identifying the obverse dies.
Plate Coin: Simply a Gem! Incredible Original Patina With Lavendar, Rose, Blue Toning On Obverse and Light Sunset Gold and Blues on Reverse, a Remarkable Dime That Should be in a MS67 Holder
Mintage: 564,969
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
Three obverse and reverse dies were used to strike 1884 San Francisco dimes. This date is scarce across all circulated grades, becoming very scarce in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 104, Well Struck, Light Gray/Lavender Toning Over Pristine Surfaces
Mintage: 564,969
Obverse Dies: 3 Known
Three obverse and reverse dies were used to strike 1884 San Francisco dimes. This date is scarce across all circulated grades, becoming very scarce in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 105, New variety die pairing between Obverse 1 and Reverse C. Specimen exhibits even luster and traces of obverse toning.
Mintage: 2,533,427
Obverse Dies: 10 Known
1885 Philadelphia dimes are considered a common date in all grades, but finding well struck examples in higher grades may be challenging. Possibly one of the tougher common dates in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 102, White and Extremely Well Struck
Mintage: 2,533,427
Obverse Dies: 11 Known
1885 Philadelphia dimes are considered a common date in all grades, but finding well struck examples in higher grades may be challenging. Possibly one of the tougher common dates in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 111, Deep Rose and Green Obverse Toning with the Reverse in Lighter Shades near the Periphery
Mintage: 43,690
Obverse Dies: 1 Known
1885 San Francisco dimes are rare in any grade, and become very rare in Mint State. This limited mintage was produced from a single die pair. Beware of potential 1885 Philadelphia dimes with an added S mintmark.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Deep Gray Blue Toning on Obverse, Lighter Golden Tone on Reverse
Mintage: 6,377,570
Obverse Dies: 18 Known
The 1886 Philadelphia date offers a significant number of repunched date varieties. None of the repunched varieties are considered rare. Once again, this is a common date that needs further research given its sizable mintage.
Plate Coin: Fortin-119, Minor misplaced 8 digit in gown, 100% toned and wholly original with a superb strike, nice frost and excellent eye-appeal. Both obverse and reverse are toned in shades of green, plum and pale blue-green and are exceptionally clean.
Mintage: 11,283,939
Obverse Dies: 14 Known
This date is very common and currently plentiful in MS63 through MS65 grades due to a recent hoard. However, it becomes more difficult in MS66 and rare In MS67 grades.
The task of researching and cataloguing the obverse dies is overwelming for the 1887 date due to the very high mintage. At least 60 obverse dies are possible.
Plate Coin: Light to Moderator Rose and Gold Toning On Both Obverse And Reverse.
Mintage: 4,454,450
Obverse Dies: 16 Known
A common date in all grades including Mint State.
For 1887 San Francisco dimes, attributing obverse dies can be a difficult task for several reasons. First there are only minor differences in the date position due to the size of the digits in the date. For reverse dies, both the position and tilt of the Medium S mintmark plays an important role in reverse die identification.
Plate Coin: Fortin 114, Doubled UNITED on Obverse, Lustrous with Peripheral Gold Toning
Mintage: 4,454,450
Obverse Dies: 16 Known
A common date in all grades including Mint State through MS64 but becomes difficult in MS65 and rare in MS66.
For 1887 San Francisco dimes, attributing obverse dies can be a difficult task for several reasons. First there are only minor differences in the date position due to the size of the digits in the date. For reverse dies, both the position and tilt of the Medium S mintmark plays an important role in reverse die identification.
Plate Coin: F-108, Prooflike with multi color toning.
Mintage: 5,496,487
Obverse Dies: 19 Known
The 1888 Philadelphia coinage presents a host of varieties for the Seated Dime specialist. Three proof dies have been identified along with four significant misplaced dates. In addition, two repunched date varieties and a polished reverse die with multiple die pairings are available.
Plate Coin: Fortin 116, Consistant Vibrant Luster Beneath Bold Blue-green, Peach, and Lemon-gold Patina on both Obverse and Reverse. A Simply Amazing Seated Dime...
Mintage: 1,720,000
Obverse Dies: 8 Known
I believe 1888 San Francisco dimes to be common in the lower circulated grades but becoming scarce in EF or better. Fairly underrated in AU and Mint State grades.
Eight obverse and reverse dies have been documented at www.seateddimevarieties.com.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103, Ahwash 2, Doubled Die Reverse, Rose Toning Throughout
Mintage: 7,380,711
Obverse Dies: 21 Known
Reverse die doubling was undoubtedly not a primary concern by mint workers during the hubbing of the 1889 reverse dies. As a result, at least five reverse dies have been identified with Class 1 rotated hub doubling.
Additional research remains for this date as many obverse and reverse dies are still not catalogued.
Plate Coin: Peripheral Sea-Green and Deep Reddish-Gold Toning On Obverse, Reverse Toned a Turquoise-Blue With Gold and Crimson
Mintage: 972,678
Obverse Dies: 7 Known
1889 San Francisco dimes are tough to locate in the lower circulated grades and become scarce in EF-AU. Mint State examples are infrequently seen. The Small S mintmarked examples are more available than the Medium S mintmark size.
Plate Coin: Fortin 108, Small S, Lustrous With Gold Toning Near Rims
Mintage; 9,911,541
Obverse Dies: 21 Known
A common date in all grades including Mint State. Much incremental research is required to determine the full extent of repunched dates and misplaced date varieties.
Plate Coin: Fortin 121, Lustrous Silver Centers Turning to Golden Rose and then Aquamarine Bullseye Toning
Mintage: 1,423,076
Obverse Dies: 12 Known
For a relatively small mintage of 1,423,076 pieces, the 1890-S date presents a host of obverse and reverse dies and die pairings. To date, Twelve obverse dies and fifteen reverse dies have been identified. This research effort was facilitated by a large circulated hoard belonging to Larry Briggs.
1890 San Francisco dimes are fairly available in the lower circulated grades, but becomes very scarce in EF or better. The Small S is scarce overall, being rare in EF-AU and very rare in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 111, Level Date, Medium S, Even Medium Gray With Blue Highlights, Well Struck
Mintage: 1,423,076
Obverse Dies: 12 Known
For a relatively small mintage of 1,423,076 pieces, the 1890-S date presents a host of obverse and reverse dies and die pairings. To date, Twelve obverse dies and fifteen reverse dies have been identified. This research effort was facilitated by a large circulated hoard belonging to Larry Briggs. 1890 San Francisco dimes are fairly available in the lower circulated grades, but becomes very scarce in EF or better. The Small S is scarce overall, being rare in EF-AU and very rare in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Unattributed, Downward Sloping Date, Medium S, Even Light Gold Toning over Bold Luster
Mintage: 1,423,076
Obverse Dies: 12 Known
For a relatively small mintage of 1,423,076 pieces, the 1890-S date presents a host of obverse and reverse dies and die pairings. To date, Twelve obverse dies and fifteen reverse dies have been identified. This research effort was facilitated by a large circulated hoard belonging to Larry Briggs. 1890 San Francisco dimes are fairly available in the lower circulated grades, but becomes very scarce in EF or better. The Small S is scarce overall, being rare in EF-AU and very rare in Mint State.
Plate Coin: Fortin 103, Double Die Obverse, Clear Medium S, Even Light Golden Rose Toning over Problem Free Surfaces, A Gem Example Consistent with Registry Set Quality Requirements
Mintage: 3,196,116
Obverse Dies: 12 Known
1891 San Francisco dimes are common in all circulated grades and a slightly better date in Mint State. The Medium S mintmark
appears more often than the Small S mintmark.
Research has identified twelve obverse dies and thirteen reverse dies. Multiple die pairing are available and present a collecting challenge if one wishes to assemble a complete set of date and mintmark position varieties.
Plate Coin: Fortin 116, A Bold Strike Throughout With Magnificent Luster, So Close to MS67
A single 1841 obverse die was used to strike both Large and Small O transitional Closed Bud dimes in early 1841, probably January. The obverse is found well struck on the few high grade Closed Bud examples that exist. Reverse A is the left over 1840-O Reverse (A) which was previously shown in a late die state during its usage in 1840. In this final die state, Reverse A is badly cracked with numerous die cracks from the rim to the letters in the legend. Cherrypicking either an example of the Large or Small O Closed Bud can also be accomplished by studying either the obverse or the reverse die. Since the same obverse die was only used with the transitional reverses, its date, which is farther left than on any other 1841 obverse, can be an important diagnostic. The differences between an Open and Closed Bud Reverse is obvious in higher grades. In lower grades, one must examine the position of the lower left wreath leaf with respect to (U)NITED. See the photos above as a guide. I consider both the Large and Small O transitional Closed Bud dimes to be key coins in the Top 100 LIberty Seated Dime Variety set. The plate coin is currently the second finest known example of the 1841-O Large O Closed Bud transitional variety.
All four date digits of the 1843 Repunched Date variety are strongly repunched downward. The reverse is perfect on this PCGS registry coin (the Brian Greer plate coin) but will soon exhibit die cracks as incremental coinage is produced.
Additional macro images and descriptions can be found at the www.seateddimevarieties.com website at the following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/preview/1843_102page.htm
The 1853 Repunched Date obverse/reverse die pair comes in various die states. Early die state examples will show strong repunching on the 85 digits which will slowly diminish with die wear. On the reverse, die cracks are found from rim to top of letters STA(TES) and A(MERICA).
John McCloskey first published the 1853WA Repunched Date obverse in the March 1980 issue of the Gobrecht Journal.
Detailed macro images of the 1853 Repunched Date variety can be found at the www.seateddimevarieties.com website at following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/preview/1853wa_107page.htm
A significantly doubled obverse die with the entire shield and gown lines above the pendant doubled EAST. Doubling is also clearly visible on Liberty's pole. The 185 digits are repunched. Repunching can be seen above the flag of the 1 digit, on the upper loop of the 8 digit and above the flag of the 5 digit. This doubled obverse die will be subsequently polished with complete loss of the date repunching. For additional details about the 1856 Small Date Doubled Die Obverse variety, see www.seateddimevarieties.com and the following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/preview/1856sd_108page.htm
On the 1856-O Repunched Date Down variety, the final date punch has been repunched in a clockwise downward direction over the previous date punch. Significant traces of the previous date digits are visible below the 1 digit and above and within the 56 digits. Die chips are visible around Stars 3 through 6. The obverse die is rusted and generally found weakly struck. This PCGS registry coin is the finest known example of the Repunched Date Down variety known to me.
The date on 1873 No Arrows with Repunched Date appears to slope upward, however the tops of the digits are even with the base. The digits in the date exhibit obvious repunching. Repunching is seen at the bottom left of each digit. There is a diagonal die line in the lower right gown. Examples of the Repunched Date variety are typically seen with strong strikes including full heads. For more information and macro images, please visit www.seateddimevarieties.com website and the following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/preview/1873nac3_103page.htm
The 1873 With Arrows Doubled Die Obverse variety was discovered by Kam Ahwash, but not published in his 1981 encyclopedia. This variety, with its spectacular die doubling within and to the right of the shield, is considered R-6 in problem free VF or better and is infrequently encountered, bringing a significant premium when located.
Locating a choice and original 1873 With Arrows DDO example will take patience and considerable effort. Presently, I am aware of three coins in AU or higher grade with fully original surfaces; one sits in the collection of a major dealer, and two others including this example. The registry set dime was purchased in December 2008 after years of searching for a high grade fully original specimen (that someone would sell!). My example has mint state details with lovely original grey, brown, green and even rose toning. The original toning may be the result of a small mark below (D)IME that kept the coin from being dipped and sent to TPGs for a mint state slabbing attempt even though PCGS recently gave the dime a certified grade of AU55. I believed the original toning to be more important than the reverse mark and wholeheartedly welcomed this rare doubled die obverse example into my reference collection. Additional information and macro images are available at www.seateddimevarieties.com website at the following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/date_mintmark/1873wa_103page.htm
The 1873 With Arrows Doubled Die Obverse variety was discovered by Kam Ahwash, but not published in his 1981 encyclopedia. This variety, with its spectacular die doubling within and to the right of the shield, is considered R-6 in problem free VF or better and is infrequently encountered, bringing a significant premium when located.
Locating a choice and original 1873 With Arrows DDO example will take patience and considerable effort. Presently, I am aware of three coins in AU or higher grade with fully original surfaces; one sits in the collection of a major dealer, and two others including this example. The registry set dime was purchased in December 2008 after years of searching for a high grade fully original specimen (that someone would sell!). My example has mint state details with lovely original grey, brown, green and even rose toning. The original toning may be the result of a small mark below (D)IME that kept the coin from being dipped and sent to TPGs for a mint state slabbing attempt even though PCGS recently gave the dime a certified grade of AU55. I believed the original toning to be more important than the reverse mark and wholeheartedly welcomed this rare doubled die obverse example into my reference collection. Additional information and macro images are available at www.seateddimevarieties.com website at the following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/date_mintmark/1873wa_103page.htm
All the letters in OF AMERICA are strongly doubled as this is the first die pairing for the Double Die Obverse. Additional doubling can be found in the lower gown lines and at the bottom of the base, directly above the date digits. Greer states that "This is the scarcest of the 3 doubled die obverse die pairings overall, however this die pair is more often available than Reverse A (Fortin Reverse E) in grades of XF to Mint State. Rare in any grade."
Mintage: 8,270,000
Obverse Dies: 23 Known With Type I Reverse and 1 Known With Type II Reverse
The research by various authors has revealed twenty three different obverse dies paired with Type I reverse dies. There is a significant variability in die quality for Type I Carson City coinage. The Carson City mint's die storage techniques, or lack thereof, leads to many dies showing rust damage. Sharp strikes, even from rusted dies, are easy to find.
1876 Carson City Type II Reverse examples are limited to a single die pair. This variety is scarce in all grades. High grade AU and Mint State examples will be found with prooflike surfaces and strong strikes.
Plate Coin: Fortin 101, Type II Reverse, Very Well Struck And Outstanding Example Of Single and Rare Usage Of Type II Reverse for 1876 Carson City Dimes
On 1890 MPD FS-302, the top loops of four digits are visible in the lower gown. The left and right outer digits appear to be the top loops of an 8 and 0 digits. These two outer digits are positioned directly above the final date punch. The two inner misplaced digits appear to be the top loops of a 9 and 0 punch. Chris Pilliod first published this spectacular misplaced date in the Gobrecht Journal. I consider this 1890 misplaced date to be one of the key varieties within the Seated Dime misplaced date series.
On 1890-S RPM FS-502 variety, the Medium S mintmark is repunched left. The right outline of the earlier Medium S is very visible to the right of the final S. The upper loop of the first S mintmark is also clearly visible within the upper loop of the final S. Brian Greer indicates this variety was discovered by Todd Stickel and is very scarce. For more information and macro images, please see the www.seateddimevarieties.com website and the following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/date_mintmark/1890s_107page.htm
The Medium S mintmark on 1890-S FS-501 exhibits a strong right tilt. There is an artifact in the upper loop of the Medium S; this artifact has been designated as the remnants of a Small S mintmark in the Cherrypicker's Guide by Bill Fivaz and J.T. Stanton. After close examination of the Medium S mintmark on several examples of FS-501, I am not completely convinced that this variety is a Medium S over Small S mintmark. The lower loop of the Medium S does not show any evidence or remnants of a Small S mintmark. During earlier years, Seated dimes from the San Francisco mint have exhibited Medium S mintmarks with a punch defect in the upper loop. Until I see an example of FS-501 with both the upper and lower loops of the Small S mintmark visible under the Medium S, there will be uncertainty in my mind as to the accuracy of the Medium S over Small S mintmark designation. For more information and macro images, please see the www.seateddimevarieties.com website and the following link; http://www.seateddimevarieties.com/date_mintmark/1890s_111page.htm