The 1856 Seated Liberty dimes have value as numismatic coins. Keep reading to learn more about these silver coins.
Specifications
Type: Seated Liberty Dime
Year: 1856
Face Value: $0.10
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Silver Weight: .0723 oz.
Total Weight: 2.49 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $2.02
The US minted the 1856 dime with no mint mark and also the 1856 O dime and 1856 S dime. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin.
There are two different varieties for 1856 dime with no mint mark. There is the variety with the small date, and the variety with the large date. See the image below for reference.
| Series | Location | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| 1856 | Philadelphia | 5,780,000 |
| 1856 O | New Orleans | 1,180,000 |
| 1856 S | San Francisco | 70,000 |
Value
This coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $2.02. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $27.94 per ounce.
The 1856 dime with no mint mark and the small date is worth around $18 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $30. In extremely fine condition the value is around $60. In uncirculated condition the price is around $325 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $550.
The 1856 dime with no mint mark and the large date is worth around $40 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $135. In extremely fine condition the value is around $185. In uncirculated condition the price is around $650 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $2,250.
The 1856 O dime is worth around $30 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $109. In extremely fine condition the value is around $155. In uncirculated condition the price is around $850 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $1,350.
The 1856 S dime is worth around $350 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $1,250. In extremely fine condition the value is around $1,800. In uncirculated condition the price is around $7,250 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $15,000.
A small number of proof coins with no mint mark were minted and they are each valued at around $3,500 in PR 63 condition.
Grading System
Good- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is not readable. The letters and the date are readable.
Very fine- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is readable, but certain letters are faint.
Extremely fine- Both the word "LIBERTY" and the edges on the scroll are distint.
MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
PR 63 proof- This coin has reflective surfaces and only a few blemishes away from the major focal points. There are no major flaws.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also: