1870 Seated Liberty Dime Value Guide (P, S, Proof)
1870 Seated Liberty Dime values range from $15 (worn Philadelphia) to $24,500 (MS-66 San Francisco). Proof specimens with Cameo designation reach $9,000.
The 1870 Seated Liberty Dime is worth $15 to $24,500 depending on mint, condition, and strike type.
- Philadelphia (no mint mark) circulated: $15 – $165
- Philadelphia uncirculated: $300 – $7,500
- San Francisco (S) all grades: $400 – $24,500
- Proof specimens: $500 – $9,000 (Cameo examples command premiums)
The 1870-S is a semi-scarce key date with only 50,000 struck, while the Philadelphia issue is common in circulated grades but scarce in high Mint State.
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1870 Seated Liberty Dime: Three Distinct Coins, Three Value Stories
The 1870 Seated Liberty Dime features the Type 5 Legend Obverse design
The 1870 Seated Liberty Dime presents a stark divergence in rarity and value based on its mint of origin and strike type. The Philadelphia Mint produced 470,500 business strikes—a common date whose value is driven primarily by condition. The San Francisco Mint struck just 50,000 examples, creating a semi-scarce key date that commands premiums in all grades. Additionally, Philadelphia produced 1,000 Proof specimens for collectors, with Cameo-designated examples representing the pinnacle of the series. Understanding which coin you possess is the critical first step to determining its true market value.
Identifying Your 1870 Seated Dime
The mint mark appears on the reverse below the bow of the wreath
The 1870 dime belongs to the "Type 5, Legend Obverse" design subtype, produced from 1860 to 1891 (excluding the "With Arrows" years of 1873-1874). The obverse features a seated figure of Liberty on a rock, holding a pole with a Phrygian cap. The legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" appears around the periphery, replacing the stars of earlier types. The date "1870" is below Liberty. The reverse displays a large "cereal" wreath of corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco surrounding the denomination "ONE DIME."
Mint Mark Location
For branch mint coins of this type, the mint mark is located on the reverse below the bow of the wreath. Philadelphia issues from this period carry no mint mark. The presence or absence of an "S" mint mark fundamentally transforms the coin's rarity and value.
Proof vs. Business Strike Identification
Proof coins are distinguished by their method of manufacture. They receive at least two strikes from specially prepared dies at high pressure, resulting in exceptionally sharp, full details. The flat backgrounds (fields) of the coin are highly polished on the die, creating a deeply mirrored, reflective surface. The raised elements (devices), such as Liberty and the wreath, typically have a frosted texture, creating strong contrast with the mirrored fields. Proof rims are typically sharp and squared-off, often described as having a "wire rim."
Business strikes have satiny luster rather than mirrored fields, and their rims are typically more rounded. These circulation strikes may show varying degrees of strike quality depending on die condition and striking pressure.
1870 Seated Liberty Dime Price Guide
The value of your 1870 Seated Dime varies dramatically based on which mint produced it and its state of preservation. The following price data reflects October 2025 market values from NGC and PCGS price guides, along with representative auction results.
1870 Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) Business Strike
The Philadelphia issue is the most frequently encountered 1870 dime, with a mintage of 470,500. It is considered a common date in circulated grades but becomes a condition rarity in high Mint State, with values escalating dramatically for Gem examples (MS-65 and higher).
| Grade | Value | NGC Census |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $15 | 1 |
| VF-20 | $30 | 2 |
| EF-40 | $85 | 4 |
| AU-50 | $165 | 3 |
| MS-60 | $300 | 1 |
| MS-63 | $550 | 16 |
| MS-65 | $2,000 | 9 |
| MS-66 | $7,500 | 4 |
Recent Auction Results:
- PCGS MS-66 sold for $5,160(Heritage, Jan 2022)
- PCGS MS-65 sold for $1,320(Heritage, Apr 2023)
- PCGS MS-63 sold for $408(Heritage, Mar 2019)
- NGC MS-61 sold for $288(Heritage, Aug 2020)
- PCGS AU-50 sold for $114(Stack's Bowers, Aug 2021)
1870-S San Francisco Business Strike
The 1870-S Seated Liberty Dime is the key business strike of the year and a significant semi-scarce issue within the series. With a low mintage of just 50,000 pieces intended primarily for regional commerce, the vast majority entered circulation. PCGS estimates only 400 examples survive in all grades, with a mere 35 in Mint State (MS-60 or better) and just 10 at the Gem level (MS-65 or better). Even heavily worn examples command prices in the hundreds of dollars.
💡 Strike Quality Note
A common diagnostic for the 1870-S is weakness of strike in the center of the reverse, particularly on the letters "N" in "ONE" and "IM" in "DIME". Well-struck examples are particularly prized and may command a premium.
| Grade | Value | NGC Census |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $400 | 2 |
| VF-20 | $785 | 12 |
| EF-40 | $1,025 | 2 |
| AU-50 | $1,275 | 3 |
| MS-60 | $2,300 | 0 |
| MS-63 | $3,750 | 2 |
| MS-65 | $9,500 | 6 |
| MS-66 | $24,500 | 0 |
Recent Auction Results:
- PCGS MS-66 CAC sold for $25,300(Heritage, Sep 2010)
- PCGS MS-65 sold for $6,325(Stack's Bowers, Oct 2012)
- PCGS MS-63 sold for $2,760(Heritage, Aug 2011)
- PCGS XF-40 sold for $1,080(Heritage, Apr 2023)
- NGC AU-50 Details sold for $500(Heritage, Feb 2023)
- PCGS VF sold for $505(Stack's Bowers, Nov 2014)
- NGC G-4 sold for $384(Heritage, Jan 2023)
1870 Proof Strike (Philadelphia)
The Philadelphia Mint produced a limited run of 1,000 Proof Seated Liberty Dimes in 1870 for sale to collectors. The level of contrast between the frosted devices and mirrored fields determines whether a Proof receives a special designation. Coins with exceptional contrast are designated Cameo (CAM), and those with profound, deep contrast on both sides are designated Deep Cameo (DCAM). These designations carry significant market premiums.
Cameo designation requires strong contrast between frosted devices and deeply mirrored fields
| Grade | Standard Proof | Cameo (CAM) |
|---|---|---|
| PR-62 | $500-$600 | $700 |
| PR-63 | $650-$750 | $850 |
| PR-64 | $800-$900 | $1,100 |
| PR-65 | $1,300-$1,500 | $2,000 |
| PR-66 | $3,500-$4,100 | $5,000 |
| PR-67 | $6,000+ | $9,000 |
Recent Auction Results:
- NGC PR-67 CAM sold for $6,600(Heritage, Apr 2020)
- NGC PR-67 sold for $6,900(Heritage, Mar 2006)
- PR-66 CAM sold for $4,320(Heritage, Jan 2020)
- PR-66 sold for $4,080(Heritage, Apr 2021)
- PR-65 CAM sold for $1,572(Heritage, May 2022)
- PR-64 CAM sold for $738(SC, Jul 2022)
- PR-63 CAM sold for $780(Heritage, Nov 2021)
- PR-62 CAM sold for $420(Heritage, Apr 2020)
ℹ️ Melt Value Context
The intrinsic silver melt value of an 1870 Seated Dime (0.0723 troy ounces of silver) is approximately $3.52 based on late October 2025 silver prices. This represents only a small fraction of the coin's numismatic value, confirming that 1870 dimes are valued entirely as collectible artifacts rather than for their precious metal content.
Grading the 1870 Seated Liberty Dime
Grading Seated Liberty Dimes requires knowledge of the series' specific characteristics and typical wear patterns. The coin's value is heavily dependent on accurate grade assessment, making this skill essential for collectors and sellers.
Understanding grade differences is crucial for accurate valuation
Key Wear Points
The first areas to show wear are the high points of the design:
Primary wear appears first on Liberty's knee, breast, and hair; reverse shows wear on bow knot and wreath edges
Obverse: Liberty's knee, breast, and the details of her hair and head are the first areas to show wear. As circulation continues, the folds of Liberty's gown begin to flatten, and fine details in the shield disappear.
Reverse: Wear first appears on the bow knot and the edges of the wreath leaves. Progressive wear flattens the leaf veins and eventually smooths the ribbon details.
Circulated Grades
Good (G-4): Heavy wear with Liberty's design barely outlined. Date readable but may be weak. Major elements distinguishable but most fine details worn smooth. The reverse wreath shows only basic outline.
Very Fine (VF-20): Moderate wear with all major details visible. Liberty's gown shows about 50% of its original lines. Hair details are partially visible. On the reverse, the bow shows definition and leaf veins are visible but worn.
Extremely Fine (EF-40): Light wear on high points only. Liberty's gown retains 75% or more of its original detail. Hair shows good definition. The reverse bow is sharp with only slight flatness on the highest points.
About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): Slight traces of wear on the very highest points. Liberty's knee and breast may show minor friction. Original luster is present in protected areas, with 50% or more remaining on AU-58 examples.
Mint State Grades
MS-60 to MS-62: No wear, but may have numerous contact marks, bag marks, or surface imperfections. Luster may be somewhat subdued or interrupted. Strike quality varies.
MS-63: Moderate number of contact marks, mostly in less conspicuous areas. Good luster and eye appeal. Strike typically average for the issue.
MS-65: Gem quality with minimal contact marks visible only under magnification. Excellent luster and strong eye appeal. May have minor strike weakness if typical for the issue, but overall presentation is choice.
MS-66 and Higher: Premium Gem quality with virtually no imperfections. Outstanding luster, strike, and eye appeal. These represent the finest surviving examples and are genuinely rare for the 1870 date.
Strike quality is a manufacturing characteristic, not a grade factor, but affects eye appeal and value
Strike Quality Considerations
Seated Dimes are notoriously difficult to find with a full, sharp strike. Weakness is common on Liberty's head, her left foot, and the top of the wreath opposite her base. This is a factor of manufacturing, not wear, and is accounted for by experienced graders. A coin can be Mint State but still have a weak strike. However, a particularly well-struck example for the issue will often command a premium beyond its technical grade, especially in high grades where collectors are more selective.
Proof Grades
Proof coins are graded on the same 1-70 scale but with "PR" (or "PF") prefix instead of "MS". The grading focuses on the preservation of the mirrored fields and frosted devices:
PR-60 to PR-63: Full proof characteristics present but with noticeable hairlines, contact marks, or other imperfections that reduce eye appeal.
PR-64 to PR-65: Choice to Gem proof quality with minimal imperfections. Fields retain strong mirror finish with only minor disturbances.
PR-66 and Higher: Premium quality with virtually flawless mirrors and outstanding device frosting. Deep Cameo examples at these levels are particularly prized.
Proof strikes show dramatically different surface characteristics than business strikes
Die Varieties of the 1870 Seated Dime
The study of Seated Liberty Dimes has been significantly advanced by numismatic researcher Gerry Fortin, whose comprehensive catalog assigns each known die marriage a unique "Fortin" or "F" number. This system is now the standard used by major grading services like PCGS and NGC to attribute specific die varieties. For the year 1870, several die marriages have been identified for both business strike and Proof issues.
ℹ️ Collecting Strategy
While most die marriages trade at values close to the base coin for the date and grade, certain varieties with dramatic or historically significant features can command premiums. Serious variety collectors seek examples of each F number for completeness.
Philadelphia Business Strike Varieties
F-104, Repunched Date: This notable variety shows evidence of one or more digits of the date being punched more than once into the die, leaving visible remnants of the initial impression. Repunched dates are a common type of variety for this era and typically carry a modest premium, especially in higher grades where the details are clearer. No reliable public pricing is available for this specific variety, but similar repunched date varieties in the series typically add 10-25% to base coin value in MS-63 and higher grades.
F-101a, F-102, F-105, F-106, F-107: These designations represent distinct die pairings used to strike the 1870(P) dimes. Attribution requires careful comparison of die markers (such as die cracks, clash marks, and date position) against the detailed photographs and descriptions in Fortin's reference work. Unless a variety is part of the "Top 100" list or has a particularly dramatic feature, these generally do not carry a significant premium over the standard type coin.
Philadelphia Proof Varieties
F-101: One of at least two different die pairings known for the 1870 Proof dimes. No specific diagnostics or premium information is available in the source material.
F-103: This variety is notable for being used as the plate coin on PCGS CoinFacts. A key diagnostic is an incomplete first "S" in "STATES" on the reverse, a result of excessive die polishing before the die was put into service. This provides a clear attribution point for specialists. A PR-66 CAM example of this variety was offered for sale at $3,350, though this represents a specific specimen rather than a standard premium over the base variety.
💡 Attribution Resources
For collectors interested in die variety attribution, Gerry Fortin's comprehensive online reference at SeateddimeVarieties.com provides detailed photographs and diagnostic information for each known variety. Major auction houses and certification services also reference this system in their descriptions.
Mint Errors on 1870 Seated Dimes
Minting errors are distinct from die varieties. While varieties are intentional or recurring features on a die that are passed on to many coins, errors are typically one-off mistakes that occur during the striking process. The value of error coins is not standardized and depends heavily on the type of error, its severity, and its visual appeal.
Off-Center Strikes
This error occurs when the planchet is not properly seated between the dies, resulting in a strike that is off-center. The design will be incomplete on one side, with a corresponding blank area on the other. Value is determined by the percentage the strike is off-center and whether key details like the date and mint mark are present.
Value Range: A minor off-center strike (5-10%) might add $50 to $150 to the coin's value, while a dramatic 40-50% off-center strike with a full date could be worth $500 to over $1,000.
Die Cracks, Breaks, and Cuds
As dies age, they can develop cracks. These cracks transfer to the coin as raised lines. Minor die cracks add little to no value. However, if a piece of the die breaks off entirely (a die break), it creates a void that fills with metal, resulting in a raised, unstruck area on the coin known as a "cud."
Value Range: Cuds are more desirable than simple cracks, with values ranging from $50 to $200 or more, depending on their size, shape, and location. Major cuds affecting significant portions of the design command higher premiums.
Lamination Flaws
These are planchet defects that occur when impurities or gas in the metal cause a piece of the coin's surface to flake or peel away, either before or after the strike. The appearance can range from small blisters to dramatic "peeling" where layers of metal have separated.
Value Range: Minor lamination flaws are common and may add $20 to $50 in value, while large, dramatic "peels" can be worth over $100.
Clashed Dies
When the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet in between, they can transfer part of their design to one another. Subsequent coins struck from these dies will show faint traces of the reverse design on the obverse and vice-versa.
Value Impact: This error is common and typically adds only a small premium unless the clash is exceptionally strong and clear. Most collectors consider minor clash marks an interesting curiosity rather than a significant value factor.
⚠️ Market Reality
The market for error coins is highly specialized, and values are less predictable than for standard-issue coins or recognized die varieties. Error coins typically sell best through specialized error coin dealers or auctions that cater to error collectors. General coin dealers may not recognize the premium value of error coins.
Authenticating 1870 Seated Liberty Dimes
Authenticating any 19th-century silver coin requires careful examination. For the 1870 dime, several key areas demand attention to distinguish genuine coins from counterfeits and altered pieces.
Critical authentication checkpoints: weight, mint mark integrity, and overall sharpness
The coin should conform to the standard weight of 2.48-2.49 grams and a diameter of 17.9 millimeters. Significant deviations are a major red flag indicating either a counterfeit or environmental damage. A precision scale is an essential tool for serious collectors. The edge should be reeded (vertical grooves around the circumference). Smooth or incorrectly reeded edges suggest problems.
The high value of the 1870-S makes it a prime target for alteration. Counterfeiters may add an "S" mint mark to a more common 1870 Philadelphia coin. Examiners should use high magnification (10x or greater) to check for tooling marks around the mint mark or a seam indicating it was applied separately. The style of the "S" should match known genuine examples from the San Francisco mint of that period. Comparing your coin's mint mark to certified examples in online databases is highly recommended.
Counterfeits are often produced from inferior dies and may exhibit a general softness, lack of fine detail, or rounded features, particularly on the date and lettering. A genuine coin, even when worn, will show a characteristic pattern of wear on its high points rather than overall mushiness. The lettering should be sharp and well-defined, with proper spacing and proportions. While not practical for most collectors, advanced analysis can reveal incorrect metallic composition. For example, one documented 1866 Seated Dime counterfeit was found to be made of a copper-zinc-nickel alloy instead of silver, which would be immediately apparent through specific gravity testing or X-ray fluorescence analysis.
Harshly cleaned coins often exhibit a network of fine parallel scratches, known as "hairlines," visible under magnification. They may also have an unnaturally bright, lifeless appearance or, conversely, a dull, hazy surface with residue in the protected areas. Look for rim dings, deep scratches, graffiti, or evidence of having been used in jewelry (solder marks, holes, or smoothing). Coins with these issues are typically graded as "Details" by NGC or "Genuine" by PCGS with a description of the problem. Auction results consistently show that such coins sell for 30-60% of the price of their problem-free counterparts of the same numeric grade.
For coins of significant value—particularly the 1870-S in any grade or high-grade examples of any mint—professional certification by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended. The cost of grading is minimal compared to the peace of mind and market acceptance that comes with a certified coin in a tamper-evident holder.
Preserving Your 1870 Seated Dime
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintaining the condition and value of your 1870 Seated Liberty Dime. Silver coins are susceptible to toning, tarnish, and environmental damage, making preservation strategies critical for long-term value retention.
To protect their condition and value, Seated Dimes should be stored in inert, archival-quality holders. Professional grading service slabs (PCGS and NGC holders) provide excellent protection and are the preferred storage method for valuable examples. For ungraded coins, use holders made from inert plastics specifically designed for coin storage. Avoid PVC-containing flips or holders, as PVC can cause green residue and permanent damage to silver surfaces. Store coins in a stable environment with low humidity (ideally 30-50% relative humidity) and moderate, consistent temperature. Avoid attics, basements, and locations with temperature fluctuations. A safe deposit box provides security and a stable environment.
Never handle coins with bare hands. Skin oils, moisture, and contaminants can cause toning, spotting, or corrosion. Always use cotton gloves or hold coins by their edges only. When examining a coin, work over a soft surface to prevent damage if the coin is dropped. Never slide coins across hard surfaces. Keep coins away from rubber bands, paper clips, staples, and acidic materials like cardboard or newspaper, which can cause chemical reactions with the silver.
Never attempt to clean your coins. Cleaning virtually always reduces value, often dramatically. Even gentle cleaning creates microscopic scratches (hairlines) that are immediately apparent to experienced collectors and graders. Natural toning is generally accepted and can even add value if attractive. If a coin requires conservation, consult a professional conservation service affiliated with a major grading company. The market strongly prefers original, unmolested surfaces over cleaned coins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1870 Seated Liberty Dime worth?
The value depends entirely on which mint produced it and its condition. Philadelphia (no mint mark) examples range from $15 in Good condition to $7,500 in MS-66. The scarcer San Francisco (S mint mark) issue ranges from $400 in Good to $24,500 in MS-66. Proof specimens range from $500 to $9,000 depending on grade and whether they carry a Cameo designation.
How do I identify the mint mark on my 1870 dime?
Look on the reverse (back) of the coin below the bow of the wreath. If there's a small "S," it was minted in San Francisco. If there's no mint mark, it was minted in Philadelphia. Use magnification and good lighting to check carefully, as the mint mark can be small and sometimes weakly struck.
What makes the 1870-S dime so valuable?
The 1870-S had a very low mintage of only 50,000 pieces compared to 470,500 for Philadelphia. Most entered circulation and were worn or lost. PCGS estimates only 400 examples survive in all grades, with just 35 in Mint State. This extreme scarcity drives strong collector demand at all grade levels.
Should I get my 1870 dime professionally graded?
For any 1870-S dime in any condition, or for Philadelphia and Proof examples in AU or better, professional grading by PCGS or NGC is highly recommended. The cost ($30-50 for standard service) is minimal compared to the authentication and marketability benefits. Certified coins sell for significantly more than raw coins of equal quality due to buyer confidence.
How can I tell if my 1870-S has an added mint mark?
Use strong magnification (10x minimum) to examine the mint mark area. Look for tooling marks, scratches, or disturbance of the field around the mint mark. Compare the style and size of the "S" to certified genuine examples in online databases. An altered coin will often show a seam or depression where the mint mark was punched in, and the metal may appear displaced or disturbed. When in doubt, have the coin examined by a professional grading service.
What is a Cameo Proof and why does it cost more?
A Cameo (CAM) Proof has exceptional contrast between the frosted devices (Liberty and the wreath) and the deeply mirrored background fields. This strong contrast is visually striking and was achieved through special die preparation. Deep Cameo (DCAM) examples have even more profound contrast. These designations are rarer than standard Proofs because the contrast diminishes as dies are used. Cameo examples can command 30-50% premiums over non-Cameo Proofs of the same grade.
How should I store my silver dimes?
Store in inert, archival-quality holders (PCGS/NGC slabs are ideal) in a stable, low-humidity environment. Avoid PVC-containing materials, which can cause green residue and permanent damage. Keep away from temperature fluctuations, direct sunlight, and acidic materials. Never store silver coins in direct contact with cardboard, newspaper, or rubber bands.
What are die varieties and should I look for them?
Die varieties are distinct differences in coins caused by different die pairings or die characteristics. For 1870 dimes, Gerry Fortin's research has cataloged several varieties designated by "F" numbers (such as F-104 repunched date or F-103 proof with incomplete "S"). Most varieties trade close to base values, but certain dramatic examples can command premiums. Variety collecting adds depth and challenge to the series for advanced numismatists.
Is it worth collecting Seated Liberty Dimes by die variety?
Die variety collecting represents an advanced level of specialization in the Seated Liberty series. It requires significant research, reference materials, and often magnification equipment to properly attribute varieties. However, it can be highly rewarding for collectors who enjoy the detective work of attribution and the challenge of assembling complete die marriage collections. Most beginners should focus on acquiring one example of each date and mint before pursuing varieties.
Can I clean my tarnished 1870 dime?
No. Never clean your coins under any circumstances. Cleaning almost always reduces value, often dramatically, by creating hairlines and removing original surface character. Even "gentle" cleaning with silver dip or cloth creates microscopic scratches visible under magnification. Collectors and dealers strongly prefer original, untouched surfaces. Natural toning is generally acceptable and can even enhance value if attractive. If you believe a coin needs conservation, consult a professional conservation service affiliated with PCGS or NGC.
Research Methodology and Sources
The value data presented in this guide is compiled from multiple authoritative numismatic sources as of October-November 2025. Price ranges reflect the NGC Coin Explorer and Price Guide and the PCGS CoinFacts Price Guide, which represent consensus market values based on dealer inventories, auction results, and private transactions. Auction records cited include sales from Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers Galleries, and other major numismatic auction houses. Population data is sourced from the NGC Census, which tracks the number of coins certified at each grade level.
Technical specifications and historical information are drawn from PCGS CoinFacts, NGC's educational resources, and Gerry Fortin's comprehensive research on Seated Liberty Dime die varieties available at SeateddimeVarieties.com. Authentication and grading guidance incorporates NGC's published grading standards and counterfeit detection resources.
Coin values fluctuate based on market conditions, precious metal prices, and collector demand. The values presented represent typical retail prices for problem-free, properly graded examples. Actual transaction prices may vary based on specific coin characteristics, buyer and seller motivation, and market conditions at the time of sale. This guide is intended for educational purposes and should not be considered a formal appraisal or guarantee of value. For significant coins, professional certification and appraisal are recommended.
