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The Seated Liberty Dime 1838 Large Stars No Drapery XF is a significant and historically important coin in the collection of U.S. numismatics. The 1838-dated dime represents a key issue in the Seated Liberty series, one of the most popular and widely collected types in American coinage. The coin’s historical importance lies in its design, its place within the context of early 19th-century U.S. coinage, and the fact that it marks a transition in the design and production of American dimes. In particular, the 1838 issue is notable for its combination of "Large Stars" and "No Drapery" features, which makes it a distinct variety within the Seated Liberty series. As such, the coin is sought after by collectors who value its design and historical significance.
The Seated Liberty Dime was introduced in 1837, replacing the earlier Capped Bust Dime design. The Seated Liberty design, created by artist Christian Gobrecht, depicts a full-length representation of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in her left hand and a spear in her right hand. This design symbolized the strength and resilience of the United States during a time of rapid economic and political change. The initial design of the Seated Liberty Dime included no drapery around Liberty's legs, which was later modified in subsequent issues. In the case of the 1838 Seated Liberty Dime, the design featured “Large Stars” on the obverse, which is a key identifying characteristic for this year’s coin. This design was unique to the 1838 issue and added an additional layer of visual distinction for collectors of U.S. coins.
The obverse of the 1838 Seated Liberty Dime showcases the classic image of Liberty seated with a shield and a spear. Surrounding Liberty are thirteen large stars, representing the original thirteen colonies that formed the United States. The stars on the 1838 coin are larger and more prominently positioned than in later issues, which is why the coin is referred to as having “Large Stars.” This feature was used only for the 1838 Seated Liberty Dimes and is an important factor for collectors who value the coin for its rarity. The word "Liberty" appears above the figure of Liberty, while the date of minting, "1838," is placed directly beneath the seated figure. The reverse of the coin features a wreath with the denomination “10 C” for ten cents, along with the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the edge. This reverse design remained consistent throughout the Seated Liberty Dime series.
The 1838 Seated Liberty Dime was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary mint facility in the United States during the early 19th century. The Philadelphia Mint produced all dimes in the Seated Liberty series from its inception in 1837 until the early 1900s. As such, the mintmark is absent on coins minted during this time period, with all coins assumed to have been produced in Philadelphia unless otherwise noted. The mintage for the 1838 Seated Liberty Dime was significant, as it marked the first year of production for the Seated Liberty design in the dime denomination. However, despite a higher initial mintage, the 1838 Large Stars No Drapery variety is considered a rarity among Seated Liberty Dimes, especially in higher grades like XF (Extremely Fine).
The condition of the Seated Liberty Dime 1838 Large Stars No Drapery is a key factor in its desirability among collectors. Coins that are in “XF” or Extremely Fine condition show only minimal wear, with most of the fine details of the design still visible. In the case of the 1838 Seated Liberty Dime, an XF example would typically display sharp details on Liberty's portrait, the shield, the stars, and the surrounding text. The coin’s wear should be light, with only slight abrasion or smoothing evident, especially on the highest points of the design, such as Liberty's head and hand. The overall appearance of the coin in XF condition would be clean and attractive, with well-defined features that make it a great example of the Seated Liberty Dime design. The coins from this period are often very well struck, and the relatively high level of preservation in XF condition ensures that the coin retains much of its original beauty and historical character.
Because the 1838 Seated Liberty Dime is considered to be one of the rarer varieties of the series, its value is affected by both its historical importance and its condition. Coins in higher grades, such as XF or better, command higher prices in the marketplace due to their rarity and the demand among collectors. The unique characteristics of the 1838 Large Stars No Drapery variety make it especially desirable to those who specialize in Seated Liberty Dimes or early U.S. coins. Additionally, because the Seated Liberty Dime design remained in production for several decades, coins from the earlier years of the series—such as the 1838—are highly sought after by collectors as a way to complete a comprehensive collection of the type. Given its significant role in U.S. coinage and its specific design features, the 1838 Seated Liberty Dime continues to hold a prominent place in the numismatic community.
The Seated Liberty Dime 1838 Large Stars No Drapery, especially in XF condition, is a coin that represents both a historical milestone and a piece of craftsmanship. It reflects a time in American coinage when artistic design and technological innovation were at the forefront of U.S. minting practices. The 1838 Seated Liberty Dime, like many coins from this era, not only serves as an investment and a collectible, but also as a tangible connection to the early history of the United States. It tells the story of a young nation solidifying its identity through both coinage and design, making it a valuable piece for anyone interested in American history, numismatics, or the art of coin design.
In conclusion, the Seated Liberty Dime 1838 Large Stars No Drapery XF is a coin of great historical significance. It represents an important phase in U.S. coinage history, showcasing the artistry and innovation of the Philadelphia Mint in the early 19th century. The coin’s design, featuring the iconic image of Liberty with Large Stars, continues to be highly regarded by collectors. With its limited mintage and the rarity of high-quality examples in XF condition, this particular coin is not only a valuable collectible but also a key piece for anyone interested in the Seated Liberty series. Its rarity, beauty, and historical importance make it a true treasure for any serious numismatist or collector of early American coins.