1859 Proof Dime Pattern - J-233, Transitional

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1859

Denomination

Patterns

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Proof

Series

Early Republic Patterns (1792-1859)

Designer

Christian Gobrecht and Robert B. Hughes (obverse)

Composition

Silver

Weight

2.49g

Diameter

17.9mm

Edge

Reeded

Value Estimates

Up to $41,400

Values 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.

Auction Record

Price realized: $41,400
Sold: 7 April 2005
Grade: PR66
Auction house: Bowers & Merena

Description

Cataloged as Judd-233, this transitional 1859 dime was created when the Mint paired the existing Seated Liberty obverse with a new cereal wreath reverse before the obverse dies had been updated to match. The result is a coin that bears the stars-on-obverse design of 1838-1859 on one side and the cereal wreath reverse of 1860-1891 on the other, notably omitting the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA entirely, since it was being moved from the reverse to the obverse as part of the design change. Mint Director James Ross Snowden championed James B. Longacre's cereal wreath reverse motif, which was ultimately adopted for both dimes and half dimes beginning in 1860. The new reverse dies were completed and placed into use before the corresponding obverse dies were modified to carry the national identity in place of the thirteen peripheral stars, giving rise to this transitional pattern. USPatterns estimates about two dozen exist; the half dime was given the same treatment (Judd-232). Reference data: struck in silver with a reeded edge, rated R-6. Catalogued as Judd-233, Pollock-280, A/W 308.