“The 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime That Fetched $2 Million at Auction

The world of numismatics (coin collecting) often features rare coins that make headlines for their extraordinary prices. One such coin is the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime, a coveted piece of American history that sold for an astonishing $2 million at auction.

This coin’s rarity and historical significance have made it one of the most valuable dimes ever to be sold, drawing the attention of collectors and investors alike. In this article, we will dive into the details of this iconic coin, its story, and the factors that contributed to its record-breaking sale price.

What is the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime?

The 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime is a coin that features the iconic Seated Liberty design, which was first introduced in the 1830s.

This specific version, minted in 1873, stands out because of its “No Arrows” variety. To understand the importance of this, we need to explore the historical context of the coin’s design.

• Design: The obverse of the 1873 Seated Liberty Dime showcases Lady Liberty sitting on a rock, holding a shield and a laurel branch, with the word “Liberty” inscribed above her. The reverse side features a wreath around the denomination and the words “United States of America” along with “One Dime.”
• The Arrow Issue: In 1873, the U.S. Mint modified the design of several coin types, including dimes, to account for the fluctuating silver content. Arrows were added to the design near the date to signify this change in silver content. However, the 1873 “No Arrows” Dime is a rare mistake – it was struck without the arrows, making it highly sought after by collectors.

Why Did the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime Fetch $2 Million?

Several factors contributed to the astronomical price tag of this coin at auction:

1. Rarity: Only a handful of 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dimes were minted. Estimates suggest that fewer than 20 of these coins are still in existence today. The limited supply and high demand for rare coins like this one are primary drivers of its value.
2. Historical Significance: The 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dime represents a unique moment in U.S. Mint history. The inclusion of arrows on some dimes and the omission on others during the same year adds an element of intrigue for numismatists. This mistake makes the 1873 “No Arrows” Dime even more valuable.
3. Condition: The coin that fetched $2 million was in pristine condition, graded as “Gem Proof-68” by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin. This coin’s condition made it an even more prized collectible.
4. Demand Among Collectors: The 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime is one of the most coveted coins for serious collectors. Its rarity, historical significance, and immaculate condition have made it a centerpiece for those looking to expand their collections with valuable and unique pieces.
5. Auction Bidding Wars: Like many high-value coins, the sale of the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dime was the result of competitive bidding at an auction. Wealthy collectors and investors eager to own a piece of U.S. coin history contributed to the steep final price of $2 million.

Key Information About the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime

Aspect	Details
Mint Year	1873
Coin Type	Seated Liberty Dime
Design	Lady Liberty sitting, “One Dime” reverse
Variety	‘No Arrows’ (error in design)
Minted Coins	Less than 20 in existence
Grade	Gem Proof-68 (Pristine condition)
Auction Sale Price	$2 Million
Historical Context	Unique design error, one of the first to omit arrows for silver content change
Current Collector Value	Over $2 Million for the best condition coins

Collecting the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime: A Smart Investment?

For coin collectors and investors, rare coins like the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime represent more than just collectibles – they’re valuable assets that appreciate over time. However, the steep price of such coins may deter casual collectors from owning one. Here’s what potential buyers and investors should consider:

• Investment Potential: The coin’s historical value and rarity mean it’s likely to continue appreciating in value, especially as the number of remaining examples dwindles.
• Long-Term Holding: Many collectors and investors treat these rare coins as long-term assets, holding onto them for years or even decades to watch their value grow.
• Authentication and Grading: Before purchasing a coin like the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dime, it’s important to ensure that it’s properly authenticated and graded by a reputable numismatic organization.

The 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Seated Liberty Dime remains one of the most valuable and iconic U.S. coins ever sold, with its $2 million auction price reflecting its rarity and historical significance.

For collectors and investors, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of American coin history. Whether you’re an avid numismatist or simply fascinated by rare treasures, this coin continues to captivate the world of coin collecting.

FAQs

What is the difference between the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dime and the regular 1873 Dime?

The main difference lies in the presence of arrows next to the date on the regular 1873 Dime. The 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dime was struck without arrows, making it a rare and valuable error coin.

How many 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dimes are known to exist today?

Fewer than 20 of these coins are believed to exist, making them extremely rare and highly prized among collectors.

Why did the 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dime sell for $2 million?

The coin fetched $2 million due to its rarity, pristine condition, historical significance, and high demand among collectors.

How do I know if my coin is an 1873 ‘No Arrows’ Dime?

Look for the absence of arrows near the date on the coin. If arrows are present, it’s the regular 1873 Dime. A professional grading service can also authenticate and verify your coin.