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1878
Type I Reverse - Variety 104
Obverse 4: Medium Level Date, Oblique Date Punch
Reverse D: Doubled Die, Lower Right Wreath
Obverse 4 Reverse D
Obverse Diagnostic Point(s) Reverse Diagnostic Point(s)
Comments: Obverse 4 can be diagnosed by an oblique date punch and with date position. Note that the 78 digits in the date are bold while the 18 digits are weak. Close inspection of the date reveals that date punch was not parallel to the die surface resulting in deep punch for 8 digit and shallow punch for 1 digit. There are some similarities with other 1878 obverse dies having oblique date punches but not to the extent as Obverse 4.
On Type I Reverse D, there is die doubling on the lower right oak leaf and on the bottom of the right ribbon end. A die crack connects the left and right ribbon ends during a later die state.
I have found the Variety 104 die pair to be the most difficult Type I variety to locate in grades of VF or better. Locating any 1878 dime with Type I reverse in problem free VF or better will be quite challenging.
Plate Coin: Courtesy Eugene H. Gardner Collection, NGC MS67 Star