Price Guide for 1861 Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1861 Dime variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
1861 Dime (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $14.00 - $305.00Uncirculated: $1.00 - $7,931.25
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eBayCirculated: $15.83 - $270.00Uncirculated: $122.50 - $1,499.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $12.00 - $315.00Uncirculated: $340.00 - $9,500.00
1861-S Dime (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.20 - $3,220.00Uncirculated: $489.00 - $49,937.50
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eBayCirculated: $149.00 - $875.00Uncirculated: $9,999.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 - $4,250.00Uncirculated: $6,250.00 - $75,000.00
1861 Dime, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $675.63 - $7,050.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,701.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 - $7,750.00
1861 Dime F-101, Type 1 Obv (Regular Strike)
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eBayCirculated: $43.99Uncirculated: $461.00
1861 Dime F-102, Type 2 Obv (Regular Strike)
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eBayCirculated: $204.37Uncirculated: $587.70
1861-S Dime F-101 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $312.00 - $660.00Uncirculated: $8,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $349.00
1861-S Dime F-102 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $51,700.00
1861 Dime F-101 (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,233.75 - $4,080.00
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eBayCirculated: $86.09 - $159.50Uncirculated: $50.00 - $139.99
1861 Dime (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $517.00Uncirculated: $8.00 - $3,639.60
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eBayCirculated: $330.00Uncirculated: $420.00 - $1,961.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $600.00 - $6,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1861 Dime
The 1861 Dime, part of the Seated Liberty series, was minted during a pivotal year in American history. It was produced at the onset of the Civil War, which began in April 1861. This coin represents a significant period of transition and turmoil in the United States, as the nation was divided between Union and Confederate states.
The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1837, continued to be minted throughout the Civil War, providing a sense of continuity during uncertain times. The coin's silver content made it valuable for commerce and savings during this tumultuous period.
| Weight | 2.49 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath of cereals surrounding the words 'ONE DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1861 Dime significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Coins in higher mint state grades (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable due to their scarcity. The New Orleans and San Francisco issues are especially prized in high grades due to their lower mintages and historical significance.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details on Liberty and the wreath are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant value, especially for uncirculated specimens.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer contact marks and abrasions increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance a coin's appeal and value.
Mintage: 1,884,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, due to Civil War historical significance
Mintage: 1,180,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 172,500
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS60 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, particularly for higher grade examples
Historical context plays a crucial role in the value of 1861 Dimes. As Civil War year coins, they are sought after by both coin collectors and Civil War enthusiasts. The New Orleans mint coins are particularly interesting, as the mint was briefly operated by the Confederacy before being captured by Union forces.
Provenance can also significantly impact value. Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or inclusion in famous collections can command premium prices.
Finally, the overall rarity of high-grade specimens, especially for the San Francisco and New Orleans issues, makes these coins particularly valuable to collectors attempting to complete high-grade sets of Seated Liberty Dimes or Civil War era coinage.
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