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The 1875-CC Seated Liberty Dime with the "Above Bow" mintmark variety is a historic and scarce issue from the final decades of the 19th century, minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada. This coin is part of the broader Seated Liberty Dime series, which was produced from 1837 to 1891 and is one of the longest-running series in U.S. coinage history. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Seated Liberty Dime features the allegorical figure of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a liberty pole. The 1875-CC dime is particularly notable for its association with the legendary Carson City Mint, a facility that evokes the imagery and rugged history of the American West, as well as for its two mintmark varieties—one with the "CC" mintmark placed above the bow of the wreath and one with it below.
The Carson City Mint was established in 1870 to process the massive quantities of silver being extracted from the nearby Comstock Lode. Coins minted at Carson City are typically more scarce than their counterparts from Philadelphia or San Francisco, largely due to the limited production capacity and shorter operational lifespan of the facility. The "Above Bow" variant of the 1875-CC Seated Liberty Dime refers to the placement of the "CC" mintmark above the bow tying the wreath on the reverse of the coin, rather than below it, which is the more common configuration for most issues of the series. This distinction, while subtle in appearance, is significant in numismatic terms and increases the collectibility and desirability of the coin.
The obverse design of the 1875-CC Seated Liberty Dime features Liberty seated facing left on a rock, holding a liberty pole topped by a Phrygian cap in her left hand, while her right hand rests on a striped shield inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The date "1875" appears prominently at the base of the coin, below Liberty. Around the edge are thirteen stars representing the original colonies. This iconic design, created by Gobrecht and slightly modified over time, reflects the neoclassical style that dominated 19th-century American coinage. In Very Fine (VF) condition, the major elements of the obverse remain clear and sharp, with modest wear on Liberty’s knee, hand, and drapery folds, but full outlines and many interior details still visible.
The reverse of the coin bears a simple but elegant wreath composed of corn, wheat, maple, and oak branches, encircling the denomination “ONE DIME.” Above the wreath, centered along the rim, is the "CC" mintmark, signifying that the coin was struck at the Carson City facility. The “Above Bow” positioning makes this coin an easily recognizable and sought-after variety. In VF condition, the wreath design is mostly intact, though some high points show light wear, particularly on the bow and outer leaves. The mintmark remains well-defined, a crucial factor in identifying the variety and assessing its value.
The mintage of the 1875-CC Seated Liberty Dime was 10,817,000 coins in total; however, this figure includes both "Above Bow" and "Below Bow" mintmark varieties. While the precise mintage of the "Above Bow" variety is unknown, it is significantly scarcer than the "Below Bow" type and is treated as a distinct and valuable subtype by collectors. The discovery and cataloging of these two mintmark placements added depth and intrigue to collecting Carson City coinage, especially for enthusiasts seeking to complete a full CC-mint type set or a comprehensive Seated Liberty Dime collection.
The coin's condition, graded as Very Fine, indicates a coin that circulated but was well preserved by early standards. A VF-graded coin will display moderate wear on the highest parts of the design, but all major features—including the date, mintmark, Liberty figure, and wreath—remain clear and defined. Collectors often value VF examples of 19th-century coins as they offer a balance between affordability and attractiveness. In the case of the 1875-CC Above Bow variety, VF condition is considered desirable and presents an accessible yet historic example of Carson City silver coinage with a distinct mintmark feature.
The 1875-CC dime with the mintmark above the bow is also a subject of interest for die variety specialists. Minor positional differences in the mintmark and other die markers have led to sub-classifications within the Above Bow variety. The clarity of the mintmark, and whether it is sharply struck or weakly punched, can affect value and classification. Collectors examining coins in VF condition can often still detect these subtle die features, particularly if the coin retains its original surfaces and hasn’t been cleaned or otherwise altered.
The importance of the Carson City Mint in the lore of American numismatics cannot be overstated. Its limited years of operation (1870–1893) and relatively low mintages make any coin bearing the “CC” mintmark a prize among collectors. The 1875-CC dime, especially the Above Bow variety, reflects both the output of this Western mint and the transitional nature of coin design and production in the post-Civil War United States. These coins circulated during a time of national growth and westward expansion, and owning such a piece offers a tangible connection to that era.
Examples in VF condition may exhibit natural patina and toning, often in light gray, silver, or even blueish hues, depending on how the coin was stored. These characteristics can add eye appeal and are often favored by collectors who appreciate original surfaces. Careful grading is crucial for this issue, as wear on the wreath and date area can affect the coin’s identification and overall value. Coins with clear detail in the bow, wreath, and lettering, along with a sharp CC mintmark, stand out even in mid-circulated grades like VF.
For those assembling a type set of Carson City coinage or a full set of Seated Liberty Dimes by date and mint, the 1875-CC Above Bow is a critical and rewarding addition. Its combination of historical significance, mintmark variety, and modest mintage make it a standout among 19th-century U.S. dimes. While higher-grade examples exist, they are rare and often command substantial premiums, making VF condition examples a strong balance of quality and collectibility.
The 1875-CC Seated Liberty Dime Above Bow in Very Fine condition is a classic American coin that represents the unique character of Carson City’s silver coinage. With its distinctive mintmark placement, strong historical context, and collectible appeal, it offers a glimpse into a time when silver from Nevada's mines shaped the coinage of a growing nation. This coin remains a compelling piece for numismatists and history enthusiasts alike, providing both numismatic value and a connection to the pioneering spirit of the American West.