Seated dimes are one of the longest running series of U.S. coins. Issued from 1837 to 1891 the series saw several minor design changes. For the first two years the obverse (front) design was just a seated liberty figure, later in 1838 stars were added around liberty. In 1853 arrows were added at the date (to make the coins heavier!) These were removed in 1856. In 1859 the stars were replaced with "United States Of America" around liberty (which was previously on the reverse). The wreath on the reverse (back) was also enlarged and enhanced at that time. The design remained unchanged until production ceased in 1891. Four mints were used to strike these, they were Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco and Carson City. The same basic design was also used on Half Dimes, Twenty Cent pieces, Quarters, Half Dollars and Dollars. While there are many easily collectible dates of seated dimes, rarities do exist (unfortunately none are included in the group offered here). The 1871-CC and 1873-CC are quite rare.
The seated dimes offered here are in full fine condition. The main standard for grading these (and most other seated coinage) in circulated condition is the word liberty on the shield located on the obverse. To be considered fine the word liberty must be complete, though not necessarily sharp. For more information on grading we suggest the reference books below.
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