1865-S

Variety 104

 Obverse 3: High Date, Slight Upward Slope

Reverse A.2: Late Die State, Small Weak S, [mm Lt,C]

        

Obverse 3                                             Reverse A.2

 

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

        

        

Comments: Obverse 3 presents a high date that has a slight upward slope. Note the Obverse 3 contrast between the Liberty's full head versus the weakness of the legend. I have only seen a few 1865-S dimes struck from the Obverse 3 die, all in low circulated grade except for the plate coin. All 1865-S dimes struck with Obverse 3 have weak legends, especially at (OF AMERI)CA. For Variety 104, Reverse A is paired with Obverse 3. Reverse A can be identified by the Small Weak S mintmark and the diagonal die line through the center of (O)NE. This is the third pairing of Reverse A with the known obverse dies of 1865-S.

Variety 104 is considered to be very scarce in the lower circulated grades and will require some serious searching to locate. Problem free VF or better examples may take years to locate and should bring a substantial premium over price guide listings.

Plate Coin: G. Fortin Collection, NGC AU55 - Ex. Richmond Collection

1865-S Varieties 101, 101a, 102, 102a, 103, 104, 105

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