The 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a rare and historically significant coin produced at the Carson City Mint, a U.S. facility known for its limited coin production during the 19th century. This particular dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which features Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a pole with a liberty cap. Its rarity and the history tied to the Carson City Mint make this dime highly valuable to collectors. In this article, we’ll explore the features, value, and historical significance of the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime.
History of the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The Seated Liberty Dime was first introduced in 1837 and remained in circulation until 1891. Coins minted at the Carson City Mint, which operated from 1870 to 1893, are especially valuable due to their low mintages. The 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime, produced in Nevada during the silver boom, is one of these rare coins. It holds significant historical value, as it represents the era when Carson City was a vital minting location for the United States.
Key Features of the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1874 |
| Mint Location | Carson City Mint (CC) |
| Design | Lady Liberty seated on the front, wreath on the back |
| Mint Mark | CC (Carson City) |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Weight | 2.49 grams |
| Value Range | $5,000 to over $100,000, depending on condition |
What Makes the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime Special?
The 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime is special for several reasons:
- Low Mintage: Only 10,817 dimes were minted in Carson City that year, making it extremely rare.
- Carson City Mint: Coins minted in Carson City are highly prized because the mint produced fewer coins than other U.S. mints.
- Condition: Well-preserved dimes from this year and mint are particularly valuable since most circulated heavily, resulting in wear and tear.
How to Identify the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime
To identify this dime, there are key features to look for:
- Mintmark: The “CC” mintmark on the reverse of the coin below the wreath indicates it was minted in Carson City.
- Design: Lady Liberty is seated on the front of the coin, and the reverse features a wreath encircling the denomination.
- Composition: The coin is made of 90% silver and 10% copper, giving it a distinct weight and appearance.
Value of the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The value of the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime varies greatly depending on its condition. Coins in better condition (with less wear) are worth more. Below is an estimated range of values based on the condition of the coin:
| Coin Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $100,000+ |
Factors That Affect Value
- Condition: The less wear the coin has, the more valuable it will be.
- Rarity: With a mintage of just over 10,000, the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime is considered very rare.
- Historical Significance: Coins from the Carson City Mint are highly desirable due to the mint’s role in U.S. history.
Why Are Carson City Coins So Valuable?
Carson City coins, like the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime, are highly valuable because they were minted in small quantities. The Carson City Mint had a shorter operating period compared to other U.S. mints, and the coins it produced were often circulated heavily in the western United States, where they saw significant use in trade. This means that finding coins in good condition is rare, which drives up their value.
Conclusion
The 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a rare and valuable piece of American history, especially because it was minted in Carson City, a location known for producing some of the most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics. With its low mintage and historical significance, this dime is a prized possession for collectors. If you happen to come across one, you could be looking at a coin worth tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on its condition.
FAQ’s
Q1: Why is the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime so valuable?
A1: Its value comes from its low mintage, historical significance, and the fact that it was produced at the Carson City Mint.
Q2: How can I identify an 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime?
A2: Look for the “CC” mintmark on the reverse of the coin below the wreath and examine the design of Lady Liberty seated on the front.
Q3: What is the composition of the 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime?
A3: The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.
Q4: How much is an 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime worth?
A4: Depending on its condition, the coin can be worth anywhere from $5,000 to over $100,000.
Q5: Are Carson City Mint coins always valuable?
A5: Yes, Carson City coins are highly collectible due to their historical significance and generally low mintages.