This Rare 1873 Dime Could Be Worth $700,000 – And You Might Still Find One!

In the world of coin collecting, certain coins become the stuff of legends

One legendary coin that continues to draw widespread interest is the 1873 Seated Liberty Dime with a Closed 3 in the date. This incredibly rare coin has amazed both experienced collectors and casual enthusiasts — and today, its value has been reported at over $700,000. What’s even more surprising?

It’s still occasionally found in circulation or hidden away in old collections, fueling excitement among coin lovers.

Coin Valued Over 700,000

What Makes the 1873 “Closed 3” Dime So Special?

The fascination with this coin comes from a small but important detail: the shape of the number “3” in the year. In 1873, two styles were made — one with an Open 3, and one with a Closed 3. The Open 3 was common, but the Closed 3 was produced in very limited numbers, making it incredibly rare today.

To someone unfamiliar with coins, the difference may seem minor. However, for collectors, that tight, nearly closed look of the 3 is a major factor in the coin’s worth. This simple variation turns an ordinary 19th-century dime into a six-figure treasure.

Why Is This Coin So Valuable?

The rarity alone doesn’t tell the whole story. The condition and history of the coin also play major roles in its value. Most of the 1873 Closed 3 dimes were used often and show signs of heavy wear. But when a high-quality example shows up — especially one in excellent or near-mint condition — collectors are willing to pay premium prices.

One such coin sold for over $700,000 at auction not long ago, stunning even veteran coin experts. As coin grading becomes more precise and more collections are examined, the value of this dime only seems to be rising.

Still Found in Unexpected Places

Even though it’s rare, the 1873 Closed 3 dime sometimes pops up in surprising places like estate sales, old coin jars, or flea markets. There are stories of people who had no idea they were holding a valuable coin until a collector or dealer noticed the rare design.

Because of this, there’s growing interest in checking old coins and inherited collections. Thanks to online resources and coin ID apps, even beginners are getting involved in the hunt.

How to Spot One

If you’re wondering whether you might own one of these rare dimes, here are some tips:

• Date: Look for the year 1873.
• Style of the 3: A Closed 3 has loops that are nearly touching, giving it a tight appearance.
• Condition: While even worn examples are valuable, those in better condition can fetch top dollar.
• Design: The front features Lady Liberty seated, holding a shield and a staff — a hallmark of the Seated Liberty series.

If you think you’ve found one, consider having it graded by professionals such as PCGS or NGC to verify its authenticity and value.

A Small Coin With a Big Story

With a face value of just ten cents, the 1873 Closed 3 Seated Liberty dime might look ordinary. But for lucky finders, it could be a life-changing discovery. Its mix of rarity, design differences, and historical background makes it one of the most treasured coins in American history.

So the next time you’re sorting through old coins, don’t overlook any small details. That tiny, dusty dime could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

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