1858 H10C Over Inverted Date Seated Liberty Half Dime
The 1858 H10C Over Inverted Date (Regular Strike) is a fascinating variety within the United States Seated Liberty half dime series. Minted in Philadelphia, this coin is a captivating piece for numismatists and collectors due to its unusual overdate variety. The "1858 over inverted date" attribute signifies a mint error where the digits in the date were punched over an inverted impression of the same digits.
History and Numismatic Context
The Seated Liberty half dime was struck from 1837 to 1873, a period that included significant changes in design and minting techniques. The 1858 half dime is part of the "No Stars" variety, first introduced in the Seated Liberty series in 1853, which featured a bold liberty design with legends in place of stars. During this period, adjustments and mistakes in the date stamping were not uncommon, leading to varieties such as the "Over Inverted Date."
Mintage and Rarity
The total mintage for the standard 1858 H10C issue was 3,501,000 pieces, although the number of coins featuring the over inverted date is considerably smaller. Exact figures for the variety are unknown, as mint records did not separately account for such errors. This scarcity contributes to its desirability and value among collectors. While not among the rarest coins in the Seated Liberty series, the error enhances its appeal, and the variety itself may be considered scarce.
Value and Recent Sales
The market value of the 1858 H10C Over Inverted Date depends on the coin's condition, rarity, and demand at auctions. Coins in higher grades, such as MS65 or higher, can fetch substantial prices, whereas those in circulated conditions might sell for significantly less. Price records indicate varying results based on condition and market demand. According to auction data, prices for this coin have been seen to exceed thousands of dollars, dependent on grade and market conditions.
PCGS Information
According to PCGS CoinFacts, the PCGS number for the 1858 H10C Over Inverted Date is 433136. PCGS provides comprehensive grading and certification, making it a reliable resource for collectors. They have documented a modest number of these coins, reflecting their scarcity.
Conclusion
From a numismatist's viewpoint, the allure of the 1858 H10C Over Inverted Date lies not only in its historical context but also in the story it tells about the minting practices of the 19th century. Its market presence, while not abundant, reflects the intrigue and interest it holds for collectors seeking unique varieties. As collectors continuously seek to find these gems, the coin maintains a prominent place in the rich tapestry of American numismatics.
