1861-S

Variety 101

 Obverse 1: Medium Level Date

Reverse A: Small Thin S, [mm Lt,C], Die Defect On Left Corn Ear

        

Obverse 1                                                Reverse A

 

Obverse Diagnostic Point(s)                    Reverse Diagnostic Point(s)

        

          

Comments: Reverse A is initially paired with Obverse 1. The primary diagnostic for Obverse 1 is the date position measured as DR 2L with the 8 in the date centered between denticles.

During this early die state, Reverse A exhibits bold wreath and denticles details. There is a die defect on the left edge of the corn ear directly opposite DIM(E) and another defect behind the M in DIME. The die defect on the left edge of the corn ear can be used to confirm incremental die usage and pairings during 1862 and 1865.

Dimes with Obverse 1 are the more difficult of the two 1861 San Francisco die varieties to locate.

Plate Coin: G. Fortin Collection, PCGS MS62 CAC Green

1861-S Varieties 101, 102

Back to 1861-S Varieties Table

Back to Date and Mintmark Table