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1852-O
Variety 102
Obverse 1: Very High Date, Downward Slope
Reverse B: Large O, [mm Rt,H,TLt7], Reverse of 1853 (A)
Obverse 1 Reverse B
Obverse Diagnostic Point(s) Reverse Diagnostic Point(s)
Comments: Reverse B is found with a distinctly different mintmark shape that Reverse A and is also better hubbed with strong wreath details. The Large O mintmark is heavily punched into the die and has a more oval shape than the tall narrow mintmark of Reverse A. Reverse B is later paired with 1853 Obverse 1 to produce 1853-O Variety 101 coinage.
Additional 1852-O dimes have appeared with a Large O mintmark that has a thick oval. At first, it was suspected that a third reverse die may exist for 1852 New Orleans coinage. But a mintmark position comparison between two 1852-O dimes with thicker mintmarks and the Reverse B mintmark, from the plate coin, revealed all mintmarks to have the same horizontal and vertical positions between DIME and the bow knot loops. See below:
I believe that all three 1852-O dimes pictured here were struck with the Reverse B die. What remains unexplained is the varying amount of thickness in the mintmark ovals and the resulting variations in the opening in the center of the Large O mintmark.
When this reverse die is reused in 1853 for additional coinage, the mintmark size and shape matches that of the plate coin. I would appreciate any comments from Seated dime specialist who may have a theory or explanation for this mintmark size anomaly.
Plate Coin: G. Fortin Collection, PCGS MS62 CAC Green