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Description

1876-CC Seated Dime, SP65
Extremely Rare Specimen Striking
One of Only Three Confirmed to Exist

1876-CC 10C SP65 NGC. Fortin-121, R.8. Ex: Simpson. Proof or presentation strike dimes were not officially produced at the Carson City Mint in 1876, according to the mint's records, though a few pieces are known that possess distinctly proof-like qualities. These characteristics include unusually deep mirroring in the fields, a degree of sharpness on the relief elements that suggests a second blow from the dies, and a distinct wire edge around much of, if not all of the peripheries.

The reason these coins were struck at all is unknown, though popular theories suggest they were made for an unofficial Centennial celebration, or possibly as presentation pieces for certain officials who might have visited the mint. As their production was not recorded, neither was their number. Researchers have estimated as few as two pieces exist today, though the combined NGC and PCGS population reports suggest the survival of as many as seven examples. We have been able to confirm the existence of three pieces certified as specimen strikings, a roster of which is given below. A fourth example has been suggested to reside in the Smithsonian Institution, though this has not been confirmed. The record auction price realized is held by the Irene Collection specimen, which brought $178,250 in Superior's January 2008 Orlando sale.

All three examples are from the same die marriage, specifically Fortin's 17-P die pair. Diagnostics include die doubling on ONE DIME and an upward-sloping date with a knobbed 6. This die pair was later used for business strikes, meaning that the specimen strikings are most easily differentiated by the depth of mirroring in the fields and the profound sharpness of the relief elements. The piece here offered is a perfect match in that regard, and also displays attractive shades of green-gold, blue, and lavender-gray toning over each side. A small vertical depression in the middle of Liberty's left (facing) thigh is common to all three known specimens.

Unlike some other special issues in American numismatics, the specimen 1876-CC dime is recognized by both of the major grading services, erasing all doubt in the minds of collectors as to its presentation strike status. Fueled by profound rarity and immense appeal among Carson City enthusiasts, this piece represents a rare and important opportunity for the advanced specialist to acquire this beautifully produced and preserved Carson City Gem.

Roster of Confirmed Specimen 1876-CC Seated Dimes:
1. SP66+BM PCGS. Public Auction Sale (Stack's, 9/1983), lot 677; Orlando Sale (Superior Galleries, 8/1992), lot 99; Baltimore '93 Auction (Superior Galleries, 7/1993), lot 230; ANA 2000 Auction (Superior, 3/2000), lot 286; Irene Collection; Orlando Elite (Superior Galleries, 1/2008), lot 110; Simpson Collection; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/2015), lot 4075.
2. SP66BM PCGS. Auction '90 (RARCOA, 8/1990), lot 612; ANA Bullet Sale (Heritage, 8/1992), lot 5190; FUN Signature (Heritage, 1/1996), lot 5311; Amherst & Waccabuc Collections (Stack's, 11/2007), lot 441.
3. SP65 NGC. Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 2/2003), lot 6280; Simpson Collection; PNG New York Invitational (Heritage, 10/2014), lot 4702. The present coin.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 27DD, PCGS# 4789, Greysheet# 4320)

Weight: 2.49 grams

Metal: 90% Silver, 10% Copper


View Certification Details from NGC

The Confident Carson City Coin Collector
by Rusty Goe

The Carson City Mint’s celebrated legacy — replete with landmark achievements, setbacks, mysteries and tall tales — is covered in exacting detail in Goe’s three-volume set.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
August, 2017
2nd-6th Wednesday-Sunday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 20
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 1,951

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
17.5% of the successful bid per lot.

Sold on Aug 2, 2017 for: $47,000.00
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