The 1874-CC Liberty Seated Dime from the Carson City Mint is a highly sought-after coin among collectors. Known for its rarity and historical significance, this coin stands out due to its limited mintage and the high-quality examples that have survived over the years.
History of 1874 Liberty Seated Dime
The Carson City Mint, located in Nevada, produced the 1874-CC dime. This coin is notable not only for its low production run of just 10,817 pieces but also for its historical context. During this period, the Mint faced multiple leadership changes and increased production pressures due to the booming silver output from the Comstock Lode.
The mint saw three superintendents in its first few years, with James Crawford stepping in as the third in 1874. Under his leadership, the mint continued to grow, and the 1874-CC dime was one of the many coins produced during this transformative time.
Specification
- Designer: James Barton Longacre
- Edge: Reeded
- Diameter: 17.90 millimeters
- Weight: 2.50 grams
- Mintage: 10,817 coins
- Mint: Carson City
- Metal Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Basic Design
The 1874-CC Liberty Seated Dime features the classic design by James Barton Longacre.
Obverse:
The obverse depicts Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in one hand and a pole with a liberty cap in the other.
Reverse:
The reverse shows a wreath encircling the denomination. Notably, the same reverse die was used for all Carson City dimes from 1871 to 1874, identifiable by a die crack on certain issues.
Value of 1874 Liberty Seated Dime
The value of an 1874-CC Liberty Seated Dime varies greatly based on its condition. Mint State examples are exceedingly rare and can fetch high prices at auctions. For instance, one example, known as the “Finest Known 1874-CC Dime,” sold for $216,000 in 2022. Even coins in lower grades are highly prized due to their rarity, with estimates suggesting only 35 to 50 pieces remain today.
Also Read – 1860 Liberty Seated Dime: A Collector’s Guide
The Bottom Line
The 1874-CC Liberty Seated Dime is a gem in the world of numismatics, valued for its rarity, historical context, and quality of surviving examples. Whether in lower grades or Mint State, these dimes are prized possessions for collectors. Knowing the history and facts of this coin enhances its appreciation and highlights the importance of each piece in the broader tapestry of American coinage.
FaQ
Q.1 What is a Seated Liberty dime?
All Seated Liberty dimes are 17.9 millimeters (0.705 inches) in diameter and contain 90% silver and 10% copper. This size and composition were used until 1965 when silver was removed from circulating dimes.
Q.2 In which year were Seated Liberty dimes made?
Seated Liberty dimes were made from 1837 to 1891.
Q.3 How do you identify a dime coin?
The obverse (heads) of modern dimes features Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president, who has been on the dime since 1946. The reverse (tails) shows a torch flanked by an olive branch on the left and an oak branch on the right.