I have been expanding my early dime collection lately by adding some seated dimes and focusing on the early dates. The Seated Dime Type which succeeded the Capped Busts was first introduced in 1837. Two distinct varieties were minted at Philadelphia that year: small dates and large dates. The large date variety is slightly more plentiful than the small date. The Red Book states that 1837 being the first year, many were saved and consequently many can be found today in higher grades. I recently added the Large Date type to my collection. The coin is lightly toned, possibly dipped and some marks present, but it shows quite a bit of lustre as well. The 1837 small date which I have had for a while is colourfully toned, specially the reverse. For once I was able to capture the colours in this new set of pictures. Let me hear what you guys think, thanks!
Two nice examples of one of my favorite series. Is that a die crack on the large date obverse or a trick of the light? Agree the LD has probably been dipped.
Yes, it’s a beauty!!! Eduard, where do you find such coins raw...? Leave some of them for me please :-D
Thanks everyone for the comments. Much appreciated. Seems like lots of early type collectors like the seated dimes without the stars. Something special about them with the open fields I guess. My focus will be next on an upgrade to my current 1838-O, not a difficult coin, they are around, and also an 1845-O. This one is likely to be a bit more difficult in appealing grade.
Nice. Both better dates. Agreed the 45 o is tough to find decent and appealing. I’m always looking for better date seated coins as I have a ready market. But they’re tough to find nice especially branch mint stuff. Very underrated coins
I agree, Bill. The branch mint issues are interesting. Specially the early dates. My aim is to complete a full "O" and "S" mint set, at least into the mid. 1850"s. Way to go yet.....
Finding the late 50s s mints that aren’t just plain ugly is a real challenge. And of course the worn out New Orleans dies and bad strikes. It’s a lot harder than most realize good luck. You picked a worthy challenge