The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a highly coveted piece in U.S. coin collecting, valued for its rarity, historical significance, and unique design. Minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada during an era when the Western U.S. was booming with growth, this coin is a symbol of a unique time and place in American history. Limited production and distinctive features have helped it achieve an exceptional level of value among numismatic collectors.
A Historical Treasure from Carson City
In the early 1870s, the U.S. government expanded its minting operations to meet demand, establishing the Carson City Mint, which is closely tied to the famous Comstock Lode silver discovery in Nevada. This facility produced limited runs of coins, including the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime. Its scarcity and Western origins give this coin added historical significance, as it represents the U.S. West’s economic expansion and development.
The Unique “Arrows” Design
One of the features that makes the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime especially valuable is its “Arrows” design around the date. This detail, which indicates a shift in the weight standards for U.S. silver coins, is a hallmark of the 1873-CC variety. Only a limited number of these coins were produced, and those with the arrows are particularly rare and desirable.
Rarity Enhanced by Minting Errors and Variations
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is also known for its minting variations. The Carson City Mint halted production partway through the year due to a change in silver standards, which resulted in only a small number of these coins entering circulation. Coins bearing the “CC” mint mark with the “Arrows” design are extremely rare, adding to their allure for collectors.
Condition and Grading Significance
As with any valuable coin, the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime’s condition greatly affects its worth. Coins with minimal wear, such as those graded MS-65 or higher, are exceptionally valuable, often fetching prices upwards of $250,000. Professional grading by services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) helps determine the coin’s quality and market value. Below is an overview of the estimated values for different conditions and variations of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime.
| Coin | Year | Mint Mark | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seated Liberty Dime (Arrows) | 1873 | CC | MS-65+ | $250,000+ |
| Seated Liberty Dime (No Arrows) | 1873 | CC | AU-50+ | Up to $100,000 |
| Seated Liberty Dime (Arrows) | 1873 | CC | XF-40 | $50,000+ |
| Seated Liberty Dime (Arrows) | 1873 | None | Circulated | $1,000+ |
| Seated Liberty Dime | 1873 | CC | Proof | Rare |
These values emphasize the immense worth of high-grade examples, especially those with the “Arrows” design, which are highly sought after by numismatic investors.
Why Collectors Prize the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is treasured by collectors for multiple reasons: it represents a period in American history marked by Western expansion, was produced in limited quantities due to minting changes, and has unique design elements that set it apart from other coins. Its rarity and historical value make it one of the most coveted dimes, a true prize for collectors who manage to acquire it.
FAQs:
Why is the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime so valuable?
The value comes from its limited production, minting errors, unique “Arrows” design, and connection to Western history, all of which make it a rare collector’s piece.
What does the “Arrows” design signify?
The “Arrows” design around the date indicates a change in the weight standard for U.S. silver coins, a detail that makes the 1873-CC variety especially rare and valuable.
How much is a high-grade 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime worth?
Coins graded MS-65 or higher can fetch prices over $250,000, depending on market demand and condition.