1838 Seated Liberty Dime

Base

About This Coin

The 1838 Seated Liberty Dime is a United States dime from the Seated Liberty Dimes 1837-1891 series — the second year of the series. In 1838, the Philadelphia and New Orleans Mints struck 2,398,534 dimes for circulation; proofs were also struck, in numbers not recorded. The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole surmounted by a Phrygian liberty cap in her left hand and a shield inscribed LIBERTY in her right and the reverse displays a laurel wreath enclosing the denomination, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around it. Stars added to the obverse, a modification that would persist through multiple subtypes. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.67 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Designed by Thomas Sully/Christian Gobrecht.

Value Estimates

$42 - $7,135

Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.

Specifications

Year

1838

Denomination

Dime

Series

Seated Liberty Dimes 1837-1891

Weight

2.67g

Diameter

17.9mm

Designer

Thomas Sully/Christian Gobrecht

Edge

Reeded

Strike Types & Varieties(6)

Strike TypeVerified