Seated Liberty Dime

The Seated Liberty Dime – this dime was introduced in 1837. Looking at its appearance, one can easily conclude that its design is very identical to its half dime counterpart. The Seated Liberty Dime’s first design showcases Liberty sitting on a rock while balancing the Union Shield with her right hand and the long pole on her left hand.

A ribbon with the word LIBERTY printed on it is draped across the front of the Union Shield. The Lady Liberty’s mobcap, on the other hand, tops the long pole. On the coin’s reverse side, one can see the words ONE DIME which is circled by a wreath tied off by a bow at its base. Along with that, the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is arced along the top. Just like its half dime counterpart, the Seated Liberty Dime has the same designer – no other than Christian Gobrecht.

When its half dime counterpart underwent some changes, the Seated Liberty Dime followed suit…having the same modifications after the first year it was minted and circulated. What are these modifications? There are 13 stars sprinkled on the obverse of the Seated Liberty Dime – there are 6 stars on the right and 7 stars on the left.

This modified look of the coin lasted all the way until 1853…after that, more changes to the coin were made. There are arrowheads added to both of the mint year’s side. When 1860 steps in, the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA was moved – from the reverse to the obverse. Along with that, the wreath located on the reverse of the coin was revamped. As for the arrows, they were eliminated from around the date and year of minting. However, these arrows were restored when 1873 came.

You can say that the Seated Liberty Dime is one of the coins in US coinage history that faced most changes. It lasted a year later…until its minting and circulation was discontinued in 1874.