The 1861 dime is a silver coin issued by the United States Mint during the 19th century. Here are some key details about this coin:
1. Design:
- Obverse: The obverse of the 1861 dime features a portrait of Seated Liberty, facing right, with the words "LIBERTY" and the date "1861" inscribed around the design.
- Reverse: The reverse displays a wreath encircling the denomination "ONE DIME" with the motto "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" along the rim.
2. Composition and Weight:
- The 1861 dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a weight of 2.49 grams (0.0875 troy ounces).
3. Mintage:
- The 1861 dime was minted in Philadelphia, with a total mintage of 20,555,000 pieces.
4. Rarity:
- The 1861 dime is considered a common date in most grades, making it relatively easy to obtain compared to some rarer dates of dimes.
5. Value:
- The value of an 1861 dime can vary depending on its condition, grade, and market fluctuations. In general, here's an approximate range of values for this coin:
- Well-worn/Poor condition: $1 - $5
- Good condition: $5 - $10
- Fine condition: $10 - $20
- Very Fine condition: $20 - $40
- Extremely Fine condition: $40 - $80
- Uncirculated condition (Mint State): $80 - $300
*Please note that these values are approximations and can change over time based on market conditions.*
Factors that Affect Value:
The value of an 1861 dime can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Condition and Grade: The overall condition and grade of the coin play a significant role in its value. Coins with better preservation, less wear, and higher grades tend to command higher prices.
- Rarity: The rarity of a particular date or variety of the 1861 dime can also impact its value. Some varieties may have lower mintage numbers, making them more sought-after and valuable.
- Numismatic Demand: The demand from collectors and numismatists for specific coins can also affect their market value.
- Silver Price: Since the coin contains silver, its intrinsic value is tied to the prevailing spot price of silver. Fluctuations in the silver market can impact the value of the 1861 dime.
It's always a good idea to refer to reputable coin pricing guides or consult with professional numismatists to determine the accurate value of an 1861 dime based on its specific characteristics.