Comments: All 1874-CC dimes have a die crack through the mintmark as a diagnostic or validation point. On the plate coin, the die crack continues up through the right wreath and exits to the rim at 2:00. High grade examples will show die roughness within the shield area and across Liberty's body. Both the left and right arrows point upward. Greer suggests that this die roughness could account for the obverse weakness in these areas on lower grade examples.

Take care in locating truly original 1871 through 1874 Carson City dimes in either uncertified or certified condition. I have seen several higher grade EF and AU grade Carson City dimes in professional grading service holders that were not original, rather having been artificially toned to improve the attractiveness of the coin. When a collector does locate an original and problem free 1871 through 1874 Carson dime, be prepared to pay a strong premium to acquire the example.

Back to 1874-CC Varieties Table

Back to Date and Mintmark Table