1838 Dime Value Guide: No Stars, Large Stars & Small Stars
1838 Seated Liberty Dime values range from $25 (common Large Stars) to $161,000 (proof). The 1838-O No Stars is the key date, valued at $85-$47,500 depending on condition.
The 1838 Seated Liberty Dime is worth $25 to $161,000, depending on design type, mint, and condition.
- 1838-O No Stars (Key Date): $85 (G-4) to $47,500 (MS-65+)
- 1838 Large Stars (Common): $25 (G-4) to $40,000 (MS-67)
- 1838 Small Stars (Scarce): $30 (G-4) to $34,000 (MS-68)
- 1838 Proof (Extremely Rare): $161,000 (possibly unique)
The 1838-O "No Stars" commands premium prices as the first dime ever struck at a U.S. branch mint and a one-year-only design type.
What's Your 1838 Dime Worth?
Select your coin's mint mark and condition to get a value estimate.
Focus on choosing the right sales channel to maximize your return.
Expected: ()
1838 Dime Overview: A Transitional Year
The 1838 Seated Liberty Dime represents a pivotal moment in U.S. coinage history. Rather than a single issue, 1838 produced three distinct business-strike varieties spanning two mints and two major design types. The 1838-O "No Stars" is the key coin—the first dime ever struck at the New Orleans Mint and a one-year-only design type. Philadelphia struck two varieties: the common "Large Stars" and the scarce "Small Stars," estimated at just 30,000 pieces. Values range from $25 for circulated common varieties to over $47,000 for gem examples of the 1838-O.
This guide provides comprehensive pricing for all 1838 dime issues, explains how to identify design types and die varieties, and covers authentication, grading, and preservation. Whether you're building a type set or pursuing die varieties, understanding the unique characteristics of each 1838 issue is essential to accurate valuation.
Identifying 1838 Dime Design Types and Varieties
The 1838 dime exists in two fundamentally different design types, plus important die varieties within the Philadelphia issues.
Type 1: "No Stars" (1838-O Only)
The Type 1 "No Stars" design was used exclusively at the New Orleans Mint in 1838. The obverse features Miss Liberty seated on a rock with the date "1838" below and no stars in the field—creating an uncluttered appearance. The reverse displays an open wreath enclosing "ONE DIME," surrounded by "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA."
Mintmark Location: The "O" mintmark is located inside the wreath, directly above the bow. This placement is consistent across all New Orleans dimes of this era. Any mintmark outside the wreath indicates a counterfeit.
Type 2: "With Stars, No Drapery" (1838 Philadelphia)
The Type 2 design added a semicircle of 13 stars surrounding the seated Liberty motif. This design was struck at Philadelphia from 1838 to 1840. A key diagnostic is the absence of drapery covering Liberty's left arm at the elbow—drapery was added to the series beginning in 1840.
As a Philadelphia Mint product, these coins bear no mintmark. The 1,992,500 dimes struck represent two distinct die varieties.
Philadelphia Die Varieties: Large Stars vs. Small Stars
1838 Small Stars (Scarce Variety): Created when obverse dies were punched using star punches intended for the smaller Half Dime denomination. The stars appear visibly smaller, more delicate, and more widely spaced compared to the standard variety. NGC estimates only 30,000 pieces were struck with this variety—roughly seven times rarer than the Large Stars. A secondary diagnostic is a prominent die crack frequently found connecting the stars on the left side of the obverse, as this die "began to fail fairly quickly."
1838 Large Stars (Common Variety): This is the normal configuration using standard star punches for the dime denomination. The 13 stars are visibly larger, more robust, and more closely spaced, appropriately filling the obverse field. This is the most frequently encountered 1838 Philadelphia dime.
1838 Dime Values: Complete Price Guide
The following tables synthesize retail values from PCGS and NGC price guides (October-November 2025), supplemented by recent auction data. All values represent problem-free, numerically graded coins.
1838-O "No Stars" Seated Liberty Dime
The 1838-O is the premier issue of the year. Despite a mintage of 406,034, it commands exceptionally high prices due to three powerful demand drivers: (1) it's a one-year-only design type, (2) it holds immense historical significance as the first dime struck at a U.S. branch mint, and (3) virtually the entire mintage was released into heavy circulation, creating extreme rarity in high grades.
| Grade | PCGS Value | NGC Value | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $90 | $85 | Widely available but in high demand |
| F-12 | $275 | $275 | — |
| VF-20 | $450 | $455 | NGC VF sold for $552 (NGC, March 2024) |
| EF-40 | $1,000 | $875 | Value discrepancy: PCGS 14% higher |
| AU-50 | $1,500 | $1,000 | PCGS AU-50 sold for $840 (Dec 2021) |
| MS-60 | $3,500 | $3,375 | Uncirculated pieces considerably scarcer |
| MS-63 | $9,500 | $8,850 | — |
| MS-65 | $30,000 | $23,250 | Auction volatility: $25,850 (2015), $17,625 (2017), $14,400 (2018), $8,400 (2020) |
| MS-65+ | $47,500 | — | Record: $37,600 for PCGS MS-65+ (CAC) (Heritage, April 2023) |
1838 (P) "Large Stars" Seated Liberty Dime
This is the common "base" variety for Philadelphia. Mint State examples are the most available of the three 1838 business strikes due to contemporary "souvenir" saving when the new stars design was introduced.
| Grade | PCGS Value | NGC Value | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $45 | $35 | Most accessible 1838 dime |
| F-12 | $85 | $85 | — |
| VF-20 | $150 | $125 | NGC VF sold for $129 (June 2023) |
| EF-40 | $275 | $275 | — |
| AU-50 | $375-$400 | $400 | — |
| MS-60 | $825 | $750 | — |
| MS-63 | $1,250-$1,400 | $1,300 | PCGS MS-63 sold for $720 (Dec 2020) |
| MS-65 | $3,000-$4,750 | $3,000 | Recent sales: $2,160 (June 2021), $2,160 (May 2025) |
| MS-67 | $35,000-$40,000 | $40,000 | Record: $43,125 for MS-67 (PCGS, July 2008) |
1838 (P) "Small Stars" Seated Liberty Dime
This is the rarest 1838 business strike by mintage (est. 30,000 pieces), yet its value is tempered by being a specialist's die variety rather than a major type coin. Significant pricing variance exists between PCGS and NGC guides.
| Grade | PCGS Value | NGC Value | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $50 | $40 | — |
| F-12 | $125 | $75 | PCGS value 67% higher than NGC |
| VF-20 | $225 | $175 | — |
| EF-40 | $425 | $275 | PCGS value over 50% higher |
| AU-50 | $600-$625 | $375 | PCGS value ~60% higher |
| MS-60 | $1,050 | $735 | PCGS value ~40% higher |
| MS-63 | $1,350 | $950 | PCGS value ~40% higher |
| MS-65 | $3,250 | $4,250 | PCGS MS-65 sold for $5,160 (Feb 2023) |
| MS-68 | $13,000-$18,500 | $34,000 | Record: $25,850 for MS-68 (PCGS, Oct 2014) |
1838 (P) Proof "With Stars" (Extremely Rare)
True 1838 proofs were struck only at Philadelphia with the "With Stars" design. The mintage is estimated at just 5 pieces, with one specimen known and certified.
| Description | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PR67 Cameo (NGC) | $161,000 | Possibly unique specimen (Heritage Auctions) |
Grading 1838 Seated Liberty Dimes
Grading 1838 dimes requires understanding design-specific strike characteristics. The 1837-1860 Seated Dimes are notorious for characteristic strike weaknesses that graders do not penalize unless exceptionally severe.
Common Weak Strike Areas (Expected on Most Examples):
- Liberty's Head: Often flat, lacking full detail—even on uncirculated examples
- Liberty's Feet & Shield: The lower shield and Liberty's feet frequently show weakness due to metal displacement during the strike
- Reverse Wreath: The top of the wreath is commonly weakly struck
⚠️ 1838-O Strike Issue
The 1838-O issue is specifically notorious for being "softly struck," particularly on Liberty's head. A sharply struck 1838-O is a major rarity and commands substantial premiums above standard price guide values. The $37,600 record-price 1838-O was noted for having a "stronger-than-typical strike" and CAC approval.
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-50):
- Good-4: Rims fully outlined. Date and major design elements visible but heavily worn. Liberty's figure identifiable but details completely flattened.
- Fine-12: Moderate wear across all high points. Liberty's shield shows partial lines. Wreath details beginning to emerge on reverse.
- Very Fine-20: Light-to-moderate wear on high points. Liberty shows decent definition with shield partially visible. Drapery folds visible. Wreath shows clear separation between leaves.
- Extremely Fine-40: Slight wear on highest points only. Liberty's knee, breast, and hair show light wear. Nearly full shield visible. Reverse shows strong wreath detail.
- About Uncirculated-50: Traces of wear on highest points: Liberty's knee, breast, hair. Light wear on reverse wreath high points. Mint luster beginning to appear in protected areas.
Mint State Grades (MS-60 through MS-68):
- MS-60 to MS-62: Full mint luster but may show numerous bag marks, light hairlines, or contact marks. Strike may be weak but no actual wear from circulation.
- MS-63 to MS-64: Above-average luster with fewer and less distracting marks. Eye appeal improving. Strike quality becomes more important at this level.
- MS-65 to MS-66: Strong luster with minimal marks visible to naked eye. Few scattered marks under magnification. Sharp strike highly desirable and adds significant premium.
- MS-67 to MS-68: Outstanding luster, virtually mark-free surfaces, exceptional strike quality. These grades are major rarities for 1838 dimes, particularly the 1838-O.
Die Varieties and Attribution
The definitive attribution guide for Seated Liberty Dimes is the Fortin system, developed by Gerry Fortin. Varieties are cataloged by Fortin (F-#) numbers, with major varieties also receiving FS- numbers (Fivaz-Stanton) for the Cherrypickers' Guide.
1838-O Repunched Mintmark (F-101)
The 1838-O mintage was struck using one obverse die and two reverse dies. The F-101 reverse features a clear Repunched Mintmark (RPM) with an underlying "O" visible with low magnification. The F-102 reverse is the "Normal Mintmark," diagnostically "high and left above the bow ribbon" and "slightly canted to the right."
Rarity and Value: The F-101 RPM is actually the more common of the two die marriages; the F-102 Normal is scarcer. In circulated and AU grades, the RPM carries no significant premium over base 1838-O values. However, at gem levels, coin quality supersedes variety designation. The $37,600 auction record for a PCGS MS-65+ (CAC) was an F-101 RPM, confirming that strike quality, toning, and eye appeal are the primary value drivers at the highest grades.
1838 (P) Small Stars Doubled Die Reverse (F-101a / FS-801)
This is the most significant Philadelphia variety, combining the scarce Small Stars obverse die with a reverse die exhibiting strong doubling. Recognized as a "Top 100" Seated Dime variety, the doubling is most prominent on the "D" in "DIME" and on adjacent wreath leaves. Later die states (F-101a) also show significant obverse die cracks.
Value Premium: This variety carries a clear premium over the base Small Stars coin:
- Circulated Grades: A PCGS XF-40 (F-101a) was offered for $719.98, representing approximately a 70% premium over the PCGS guide value of $425 for a base Small Stars XF-40.
- Mint State: Very rare in gem condition. An MS-63 (PCGS) appeared in an April 2025 auction. Based on the circulated premium, an MS-63 is estimated at $1,500-$2,000, with an MS-65 likely commanding $5,000-$7,000.
1838 (P) "Partial Drapery" (F-108)
This "variety" is not a design modification but rather a prominent die clash artifact located under Liberty's right elbow, creating an impression resembling drapery. This is a popular, collectible variety among specialists.
Value: An AU-58 (NGC) example (F-108a) was listed at $795, representing a modest premium over the base Large Stars AU-58 value of $675-$750, indicating solid collector interest.
1838-O Normal Mintmark (F-102)
The F-102 is the scarcer of the two 1838-O reverse dies, with the mintmark positioned "high and left above the bow ribbon" and "slightly canted to the right." Despite being scarcer than F-101, it does not typically command a significant premium in the marketplace, as most collectors focus on the 1838-O as a type coin rather than by die marriage.
Mint Errors on 1838 Dimes
The market for mint errors is highly specialized. Minor errors may add little to no premium and can sometimes be viewed as "problem" coins. Major, visually dramatic errors (significant off-center strikes, large cuds, broadstrikes) command substantial premiums.
Lamination Errors
A lamination error occurs when a planchet flaw causes a piece of the coin's metal to peel or flake off the surface, either before or after striking. An 1838-O Seated Dime graded PCGS XF-40 with an obverse lamination was offered for $775. This price is notably below the problem-free XF-40 value of $875-$1,000, confirming that minor lamination errors are not always desirable and may be viewed as damage by non-error specialists.
Die Breaks and Die Cracks
Die breaks occur when the die fails, resulting in raised, unstruck areas on the coin (a "cud" if at the rim) or raised lines from cracks in the die. An 1838-P Seated Dime with a reverse die break was offered for $101.78, suggesting a circulated coin (G-VF grade) with a minor-to-moderate die break. The premium over a base-grade coin in similar condition appears modest, likely $50-$75.
ℹ️ Small Stars Die Crack
The obverse die crack frequently seen on the 1838 Small Stars variety is a key diagnostic feature of that variety, not typically valued as a separate error. It's an integral part of the variety's identification.
Off-Center Strikes and Major Errors
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly seated in the coining press, resulting in part of the design being missing. Extensive searches of major auction archives did not reveal any public sales of major errors (off-center, broadstrike, wrong planchet) for any 1838 dime.
General Market Estimates: Based on the market for other Seated Dimes of the era:
- A modest (10-15%) off-center 1838-P Large Stars might command $100-$200
- A dramatic (40-60%) off-center strike would likely be $300-$500+
- An off-center 1838-O or 1838-P Small Stars would be significantly more valuable due to the rarity of the host coin
Authentication and Counterfeit Detection
Contemporary counterfeits (fakes made during the 1830s-1840s) are a known threat for 1838 dimes. The Liberty Seated Collectors Club (LSCC) maintains an archive of known counterfeits, including documented 1838-O "No Stars" contemporary counterfeits and even a fantasy "1838-O With Stars" counterfeit—a coin never officially produced by the U.S. Mint.
Primary Authentication Points: The most critical authentication diagnostic for an 1838-O is the mintmark location. On a genuine coin, the "O" mintmark is located inside the wreath, directly above the bow. Any mintmark outside the wreath is definitively counterfeit. Verify the coin's weight (2.67 grams) and diameter (17.90 mm) using a precision scale and calipers.
Detecting Cleaned Coins: A coin that has been cleaned, polished, or chemically dipped is considered devalued and will not receive a numerical grade from PCGS or NGC. It will be returned in a "Genuine—Cleaned" or "Details" holder. Under 5× or 10× magnification, look for:
- Hairlines: Fine, parallel scratches in a "wiping" or "swirl" pattern caused by abrasive cleaning
- Pitting: Minor surface pitting resulting from harsh chemical dipping or environmental damage
- Unnatural Color: A "bright" coin lacking original, frosty mint luster (on uncirculated coins) or natural, subdued toning (on circulated coins) is suspect
Value Impact of Cleaning: The value of a "Details" coin is subjective and unpredictable but typically trades for a fraction of its problem-free counterpart. An "EF Details—Cleaned" 1838-O sold at auction for $504, which is 40-50% less than a problem-free EF-40 valued at $875+. An "XF Details" coin often trades at a Fine or even lower-grade price point.
⚠️ Professional Certification Recommended
For any 1838 dime valued over $200, professional certification by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended. The authentication and grading services protect against counterfeits and provide market-accepted documentation of grade and originality. The certification cost is minimal compared to the value of authentic 1838 dimes.
Preservation and Storage
All problem-free 1838 dimes are scarce and valuable. Proper preservation is essential to maintaining their numismatic value.
Storage: Use only inert, archival-quality holders. For uncertified ("raw") coins, Mylar flips or acid-free paper envelopes are safe options. Avoid all holders containing PVC (soft, flexible plastics), which leach acid and cause irreversible green, sticky "PVC damage." Certified coins in PCGS or NGC holders are already safely encapsulated but should be stored in a climate-controlled environment away from extreme heat or humidity.
Handling: All coins should be held by their edges between the thumb and forefinger. Never touch the obverse or reverse, as oils from skin cause permanent fingerprints and corrosion over time. When viewing coins, hold them over a soft surface to prevent damage if accidentally dropped.
Cleaning: Never Clean Your Coins. Any cleaning, dipping, or "whizzing" destroys a coin's natural surface and dramatically reduces its numismatic value. A cleaned coin will be designated "Details—Cleaned" by grading services and will trade at a significant discount. If a coin has developed environmental toning or appears dull, do not attempt to improve its appearance. Consult a professional conservator affiliated with the American Numismatic Association (ANA) if conservation is truly necessary.
💡 Silver Toning
Natural toning on silver coins is not damage—it's often desirable. Original "album toning" or "rainbow toning" can actually enhance a coin's value. Only remove a coin from its holder if absolutely necessary, and never attempt to clean off toning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1838 dime worth?
Value depends on three factors: mint (1838-O vs. 1838-P), design variety (No Stars, Large Stars, or Small Stars), and condition. A common 1838-P Large Stars in Good condition is worth $25-$45, while a 1838-O in the same grade is worth $85-$90. High-grade examples can exceed $40,000. Have your coin professionally graded by PCGS or NGC to determine its exact value.
How do I identify the mint mark on an 1838 dime?
The "O" mintmark for New Orleans appears inside the wreath on the reverse, directly above the bow. Philadelphia Mint coins have no mintmark. Any mintmark outside the wreath indicates a counterfeit. Use a magnifying glass or loupe to examine the mintmark location carefully.
What are the different 1838 dime designs?
Three major varieties exist: (1) 1838-O "No Stars"—New Orleans issue with no stars on obverse, (2) 1838 "Large Stars"—common Philadelphia issue with 13 large stars, (3) 1838 "Small Stars"—scarce Philadelphia variety with smaller, widely-spaced stars. The Small Stars variety is roughly seven times rarer than Large Stars.
Why is the 1838-O worth so much more than the rarer Small Stars variety?
Despite the Small Stars having an estimated mintage of only 30,000 (versus 406,034 for the 1838-O), the 1838-O commands higher prices due to three factors: (1) it's a one-year-only design type essential for type sets, (2) it's the first dime struck at a U.S. branch mint, and (3) nearly all were released into heavy circulation, making high-grade examples extremely rare. Broad collector demand for major types outweighs the statistical rarity sought by die variety specialists.
Should I get my 1838 dime professionally graded?
Yes, for any 1838 dime worth more than $200 (essentially all problem-free examples). Professional certification by PCGS or NGC authenticates the coin, establishes its grade, and provides market-accepted documentation. The cost ($30-$50 for standard service) is minimal compared to the value of authentic 1838 dimes and protects against counterfeits.
What is the Fortin number system?
The Fortin attribution system, developed by Gerry Fortin, is the definitive guide for identifying die varieties of Seated Liberty Dimes. Each variety receives an "F-#" designation (e.g., F-101, F-102). Major varieties also receive "FS-" numbers for the Cherrypickers' Guide. Key 1838 varieties include F-101 (1838-O RPM) and F-101a (Small Stars DDR).
How can I tell if my 1838 dime has been cleaned?
Examine the coin under magnification for hairline scratches in a wiping pattern, unnatural bright luster, or pitting from chemical dipping. Cleaned coins lack the natural, subdued surfaces of original pieces. A cleaned coin will receive a "Details—Cleaned" designation from grading services and trade at a significant discount, often 40-50% below problem-free values.
Are 1838 dimes ever found in circulation today?
No. All 1838 dimes are over 185 years old and are valuable silver coins. They disappeared from circulation decades ago. Any 1838 dime found today would be from an old collection, estate, or accumulated hoard. Check coin shows, reputable dealers, and online auction platforms rather than pocket change.
What is the melt value of an 1838 dime?
The intrinsic silver melt value is approximately $3.73 based on the coin's 0.0773 troy ounces of silver at recent spot prices around $48.30/oz. However, this is irrelevant for collectible purposes—even the lowest-value 1838 dime in problem-free condition has a numismatic value of $25-$45, far exceeding melt value. Never sell an 1838 dime for its silver content alone.
What does "No Drapery" mean on the 1838 dime?
"No Drapery" refers to the absence of an extra fold of fabric covering Liberty's left arm at the elbow on 1838-1840 dimes. Beginning in 1840, the design was modified to add drapery at this location. The "With Stars, No Drapery" designation distinguishes the 1838-1840 type from both earlier "No Stars" coins and later "With Drapery" issues (1840-1891).
Recent Auction Results
The following auction records demonstrate actual market performance for 1838 dimes in recent years. These results provide valuable context for price guide values and market trends.
1838-O "No Stars" Notable Sales:
- $37,600 — MS-65+ (PCGS, CAC), F-101 RPM, stronger-than-typical strike (Heritage, April 2023)
- $25,850 — MS-65, volatility series beginning 2015
- $17,625 — MS-65 (2017)
- $14,400 — MS-65 (2018)
- $8,400 — MS-65 (2020)
- $840 — AU-50 (PCGS) (December 2021)
- $552 — VF (NGC) (March 2024)
- $504 — EF Details—Cleaned (PCGS), demonstrating value loss from cleaning
1838 "Large Stars" Notable Sales:
- $43,125 — MS-67 (PCGS), variety record (July 2008)
- $2,160 — MS-65 (PCGS) (May 2025)
- $2,160 — MS-65 (PCGS) (June 2021)
- $720 — MS-63 (PCGS) (December 2020)
- $129 — VF (NGC) (June 2023)
1838 "Small Stars" Notable Sales:
- $25,850 — MS-68 (PCGS), variety record (October 2014)
- $5,160 — MS-65 (PCGS) (February 2023)
1838 Proof:
- $161,000 — PR67 Cameo (NGC), possibly unique (Heritage Auctions)
Price Guide Methodology
This guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative sources to provide comprehensive, current market values for 1838 Seated Liberty Dimes. Primary sources include the PCGS Price Guide (November 2025) and the NGC Price Guide (October-November 2025), representing retail values for problem-free, certified coins. Supplementary data includes verified auction records from Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers, and other major numismatic auction houses.
Die variety attributions follow the Fortin system, the definitive reference for Seated Liberty Dime varieties. Market values reflect actual transaction data where available, with estimates noted for varieties lacking recent sales. All values are subject to market fluctuations based on metal prices, collector demand, and individual coin characteristics including strike quality, surface preservation, and eye appeal.
ℹ️ Price Fluctuations
Coin values fluctuate based on precious metal spot prices, market demand, and economic conditions. This guide represents values current as of November 2025. For real-time pricing on specific coins, consult current auction results or contact reputable dealers specializing in early U.S. silver coinage.
