1837 Sm Date 10C Liberty Seated NGC AU Details Damaged

1837 Seated Liberty Dime – Small Date (Philadelphia) Design & Composition Designer: Christian Gobrecht Obverse: Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a Phrygian liberty pole in her left hand and resting her right on a shield inscribed “LIBERTY” Reverse: Features a wreath encircling “ONE DIME,” with the earlier versions lacking stars—this reflects the earliest issue type in 1837 Composition: .900 silver / .100 copper Weight: 2.67 grams Diameter: 17.9 mm Edge: Reeded Small Date Variety The small date variant has a rounded-top 3 and flat-tailed 7, replacing the larger, earlier numerals in 1837 Fewer Small Date pieces were struck compared to the large date—making it scarcer in higher grades Since PCGS populations show more Small Dates than Large Dates, they tend to be slightly more available—but are still uncommon in Mint State AU Details – Environmental Damage NGC AU Details indicates moderate circulation wear consistent with light commercial use. Environmental damage is noted, meaning the coin likely was exposed to corrosive elements—such as being buried or stored improperly. This can result in spotting, toning irregularities, or light pitting. While considered a defect, it’s distinct from polishing or cleaning and doesn’t affect the Survivability of design elements. Historical Context First introduced in 1837, the Seated Liberty dime replaced the earlier Capped Bust design. This small-date version represents the second die variety of the year The series continued until 1891 and serves as a major classic-coin type collecting cornerstone for early silver coinage enthusiasts .