1874. Arrows. PCGS graded Proof 66 PQ. CAC Approved. Lovely rainbow toning on both sides. Only 700 minted. A frosted-fresh beauty, glowing with color, level, rolling mirror field with gem surfaces. Judged from an aesthetic standpoint, the coin is also possessed of a much finer strike than is typically found for an 1874 Seated Dime. Because this is a Proof, it was given a second strike by the (specially made) dies, which imparted even the finest detail for all to admire. What a spectacular Gem Proof it is! We might mention that the monetary inflation attendant to the Civil War still had not worked its way through the economy by the time this special coin was struck. In fact, America experienced a sharp business setback in 1873-7, with many who lived through it saying it was far more disruptive than the more famous contraction of 1929. Congress found it had once again to adjust the silver content of our coinage in order to retain the balance between the gold and silver ratio, thus keeping both metals at par (100%). As one can see from Red Book data, mintage of Proofs stayed about level while business strike production increased in 1873-74, thereby effecting the return of small change to circulation during the Reconstruction period. Someone with foresight, insight, and an eye for beauty secured this Proof Dime in a protected environment. It has since come down to us 140 years later, in pristine, beautifully toned condition. Pop 9; 1 finer in 67 (PCGS # 4770) . Estimated Value $7,500 - 8,000. Categories: Seated Liberty Dimes
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