Before leaving the subject of Liberty Seated dimes I should mention Kamal Ahwash, who in 1977 published a book, Encyclopedia of United States Liberty Seated Dimes 1837-1891, which described numerous die varieties. Ahwash attracted quite a following, and he bought many coins from me for his customers. He was an accomplished vocalist, and at several numismatic events, including the annual get-together of the Numismatic Literary Society, he sang solo songs, something that Ed Reiter, for years the numismatic columnist for The New York Times, did also.

Let me also mention Proofs. Beginning in 1858, Proof coins were sold to collectors and others who applied for them. Prior to that time the distribution of Proof pieces was mainly to politicians, dignitaries, and collectors with connections to the Mint. Proof dimes (and Proof issues of other series) were issued continuously from 1858 onward. In the Liberty Seated dime series Proof mintages after 1858 ranged from a low of 460 pieces in 1863 to a high of 1,355 in 1880. All Proof dimes from 1858 to 1891 are collectible, although some patience is required to track down pieces having a nice appearance. This commentary concerning Proofs is generally applicable to most other silver series as well.

Budget Recommendations: Build a type set or date set G-4 to VG-8. As always, select pieces with smooth, attractive surfaces.

Recommendations for the Connoisseur: My advice parallels precisely that given for contemporary half dimes: A basic type set of designs is a good way to start. I suggest EF-40 to MS-60 coins if you want to get a lot of value for the money. MS-63 and MS-64 coins offer excellent possibilities for the connoisseur. A set of dates and mintmarks is another interesting challenge. A nicely matched EF-40 set is inexpensive, save for a few issues. The specialist with a good bank account may wish to try for MS-63, but several issues of the 1840s will be nearly impossible to find. Proof-63 and Proof-64 coins 1858-1891 are undervalued in comparison to Proof-65 pieces, but be sure to cherrypick for aesthetic appeal.

Elite Recommendations: Build a set in MS-65 grade, as available, with the Philadelphia Mint coins 1858-1891 in Proof-65 finish. Certain varieties, such as 1844, 1846, New Orleans Mint coins of the 1840s, early San Francisco dimes, and Carson City coins of the early 1870s may not be obtainable in MS-65, therefore aspire for AU-50 or better, adding higher grade coins as you can get them.