1848 Dime Error List with Pictures

Look at the back of an 1848 dime for a thin raised line near STATES or the ribbon. These two locations belong to different known crack patterns.

One F-101a example sold for $182.25 at GreatCollections. This 1848 dime error list covers estimated whole-coin values of $50–$500 for examples with circulation wear.

Read on to compare the lines and learn why the date position matters too.

1848 Liberty Seated Dime Reverse Die Cracks (Estimated Up to $500)

The letters TES in STATES are the place to check on varieties called F-101 and F-101a. These catalog numbers identify particular pairs of stamping tools.

A die is the steel tool that stamps a coin. When it cracks, metal fills the opening and leaves a raised line on later coins.

A separate variety, F-102, can have a horizontal line through the ribbon and right stem. Earlier coins from those tools lack this crack.

The two lines belong to different patterns. Do not expect one crack to cross both locations on the same coin.

Estimated Value

A PCGS Genuine AU Details F-101a sold for $182.25. AU Details means slight wear plus a condition problem.

Estimate $50–$500 for worn examples with clearly identified cracks. This prices the entire dime, rather than adding a separate crack fee.

Original surfaces and a readable line help the appeal. Scratches or other problems can lower the price, even when the crack is easy to see.

How to Identify

First read the full 1848 date. The F-101 stamping tool for the back was also used in 1847, so the crack alone cannot identify the year.

Compare the date with Fortin’s illustrated reference. F-101 has a high date that slopes downward; F-102 has a very high, level date.

Use a magnifier and side lighting to follow the line. A crack leaves raised metal, while a scratch cuts into the surface.

A scale and calipers can check the original 2.67 grams and roughly 17.9 mm width. The dime is 90% silver and has grooves around its edge.

For the quickest check, match a raised line at TES or through the ribbon and right stem to the correct date position.

 

Conclusion

Two places deserve a close look on an 1848 dime: TES in STATES and the ribbon with its right stem. Match the raised line and date position before choosing a variety number.

Estimated values of $50–$500 apply to the whole worn coin. Earlier F-102 coins can lack the crack, and a scratch should not be mistaken for one.