Semi-Numismatic

1845 Liberty Seated Dime Good

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The year 1845 saw the production of a ten-cent silver piece that captures the artistic spirit of pre-Civil War America. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this Liberty Seated dime is composed of 90 percent silver, containing approximately 0.0715 troy ounces of the precious metal. Even in a circulated, well-worn condition, the fundamental elegance of its mid-nineteenth-century design remains clearly visible. Created by Christian Gobrecht, the obverse of the coin depicts Lady Liberty resting upon a rock. In her hands, she holds a staff topped with a Phrygian cap, while her other hand rests upon a shield, representing both freedom and defense. The year 1845 is inscribed directly beneath this central figure. On the reverse, the coin features a delicate wreath that encircles the face value, which is written as ONE DIME. Surrounding this central wreath is the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, framing the denomination in a traditional, dignified layout that was a staple of American pocket change during this era.