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1849-O
Variety 103
Obverse 2: Bold High Level Date
Reverse B: Small O, [mm C,H], Spurs on AME(RI)CA, Reverse Rotated Right 25 Degrees
Obverse 2 Reverse B
Obverse Diagnostic Point(s) Reverse Diagnostic Point(s)
Comments: The earliest die state of Obverse 2 can be diagnosed by a bold date punch with Denticle Ruler measurement of DR 0B1. The base above the date is well defined and appears higher in relief than the date digits. The 849 digits nearly touch. Obverse 2 is lapped subsequent to this die state and loses much of its date punch and lower base details. Most 1849-O dimes seen with Obverse 2 have the weak date and base and the earliert die state before lapping is consider to be rare.
Reverse B is an early die date with spurs visible on the bases of AME(RI)CA. The die spurs on the RI letters in AMERICA will be an important diagnostic for subsequent Reverse B die states and die pairing. When initially paired with Obverse 2 with bold date and base, Reverse B is rotated right by 25 degrees.
Obverse 2 Date - Before Lapping Obverse 2 Date - After Lapping
The first example seen of the F-103 variety (prior to Obverse 2 being lapped) occured via the sharp eyes of Liz Coggan of JJ Teaparty. Liz previously bought and saved the plate coin for my inspection at the 2009 FUN show after noticing that the date punch was stronger than normal for a Small o 1849-O dime.
Plate Coin: Courtesy of JJ Teaparty, PCGS VF35