The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is one of the rarest and most valuable coins from the 19th century. Minted in Carson City (hence the “CC” mintmark), this coin is highly sought after by collectors because of its limited production and historical significance. In this article, we will explore the design, history, rarity, and value of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime, making it easy for everyone to understand its importance.
History of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The Seated Liberty design was used on many U.S. coins throughout the mid-19th century, including dimes, quarters, and dollars. The 1873-CC dime was minted in Carson City, Nevada, which was established to serve the nearby Comstock Lode, one of the richest silver deposits in the world at the time. What makes this particular dime so special is the low mintage and the fact that many were melted down or lost over time, making it incredibly rare today.
The Minting Process
The Carson City Mint was a smaller facility compared to other U.S. mints. In 1873, the U.S. government decided to change the weight of the dimes, leading to the production of both “closed 3” and “open 3” varieties. Only a few 1873-CC dimes were made before the mint stopped production, which adds to their rarity.
Design of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The design of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime features Lady Liberty sitting on a rock, holding a shield in one hand and a pole with a liberty cap in the other. This design symbolizes freedom and strength. The reverse of the coin features the words “ONE DIME” surrounded by a wreath. Below is a breakdown of the coin’s design and specifications:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty with shield and pole |
| Reverse Design | “ONE DIME” surrounded by wreath |
| Mint Mark | “CC” for Carson City |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
| Edge | Reeded |
Rarity and Value of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is extremely rare due to its low mintage and the melting of many coins. In fact, fewer than 10 confirmed examples are known to exist today, making this coin one of the most desirable dimes for collectors. Prices can vary based on the condition of the coin, but even heavily worn examples can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Why Is It So Rare?
Most 1873-CC dimes were either melted down due to the weight standard changes or simply lost over time. The few that survived are cherished by numismatists (coin collectors), making them a key piece of American history.
Collecting the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
Because of its rarity, owning an 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a dream for most coin collectors. These coins are rarely available for sale, and when they are, they fetch incredibly high prices at auctions. Collectors interested in obtaining one should be prepared for high costs and should always ensure they are purchasing from a reputable source.
Conclusion
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a true treasure in American coin history. Its scarcity, combined with its connection to the Carson City Mint and the silver mining era, makes it one of the most coveted coins in the numismatic world. For collectors, owning this coin is not just about its value but about holding a rare piece of the nation’s past. With fewer than 10 known to exist, it stands as one of the rarest dimes ever produced.
FAQ’s
1. Why is the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime so rare?
The coin is rare because of its low mintage and the fact that many were melted down due to changes in the weight standards.
2. What is the value of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime?
The value can range from hundreds of thousands to over a million dollars depending on the condition.
3. Where was the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime minted?
The coin was minted at the Carson City Mint, as indicated by the “CC” mint mark.
4. How many 1873-CC dimes still exist today?
Fewer than 10 examples are confirmed to exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. dimes.
5. What is the composition of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime?
The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.