1948 Silver Dime: A Rare Coin With Intriguing History

What is a 1948 silver dime?

The 1948 silver dime is a ten-cent piece struck by the United States Mint from 1946 to 1964. It was the last dime to be struck in 90% silver.

The obverse of the coin features a profile of Liberty, while the reverse features a depiction of a Monticello.

The 1948 silver dime is a popular collector's item, and it is also worth a significant amount of money in silver value.

Here are some additional details about the 1948 silver dime:

• It weighs 2.5 grams.
• It has a diameter of 17.9 millimeters.
• It has a reeded edge.
• It was designed by John R. Sinnock.

The 1948 silver dime is a piece of American history, and it is also a valuable collectible.

1948 silver dime

The 1948 silver dime is a classic American coin with a rich history and enduring value.

• Composition: 90% silver
• Weight: 2.5 grams
• Diameter: 17.9 millimeters
• Obverse: Liberty profile
• Reverse: Monticello
• Designer: John R. Sinnock

These key aspects highlight the physical characteristics, historical significance, and enduring value of the 1948 silver dime. Its composition of 90% silver makes it a valuable collectible, while its classic design and historical significance make it a popular numismatic item.

1. Composition

The 1948 silver dime is composed of 90% silver, which gives it a unique value and historical significance.

Silver has been used in coinage for centuries due to its durability, malleability, and attractive appearance. The use of 90% silver in the 1948 silver dime reflects the high value that was placed on this metal at the time.

The high silver content of the 1948 silver dime also makes it a valuable collectible. Silver coins are often hoarded by investors and collectors, which can drive up their value over time.

In addition to its value as a collectible, the 1948 silver dime is also a piece of history. It was minted during a time of great change in the United States, and it can provide insights into the economic and social conditions of the era.

2. Weight

The weight of a 1948 silver dime is 2.5 grams. This is due to the fact that the coin is composed of 90% silver, which has a density of 10.49 grams per cubic centimeter. The remaining 10% of the coin is composed of copper, which has a density of 8.96 grams per cubic centimeter.

The weight of the 1948 silver dime is important because it helps to determine the coin's value. Silver coins are often valued by their weight, and the heavier the coin, the more valuable it is. This is because silver is a precious metal, and its value is determined by its weight.

The weight of the 1948 silver dime is also important because it can help to identify the coin's authenticity. Counterfeit coins are often made of less valuable metals, such as lead or zinc, which are lighter than silver. By weighing the coin, it is possible to determine if it is genuine or counterfeit.

3. Diameter

The diameter of a 1948 silver dime is 17.9 millimeters. This is a significant measurement because it helps to determine the coin's value and authenticity.

The diameter of a coin is important because it can help to identify the coin's denomination. In the case of the 1948 silver dime, its diameter of 17.9 millimeters is consistent with other dimes minted during this time period.

The diameter of a coin can also help to determine the coin's authenticity. Counterfeit coins are often made with incorrect diameters, which can be a sign that the coin is not genuine.

In addition to its importance for identification and authenticity, the diameter of a coin can also affect its value. Coins with larger diameters are often more valuable than coins with smaller diameters. This is because larger coins require more metal to produce, which makes them more valuable.

The diameter of a 1948 silver dime is an important measurement that can help to determine the coin's value, authenticity, and denomination.

4. Obverse

The obverse of the 1948 silver dime features a profile of Liberty, a symbol of the United States that has been used on American coinage since the early 19th century.

• Historical significance: The Liberty profile on the 1948 silver dime is based on the design created by John Reich for the 1836 Gobrecht dollar. This design was chosen to represent the ideals of the young United States, and it has been used on dimes ever since.
• Symbolism: The Liberty profile on the 1948 silver dime is a symbol of freedom and democracy. Liberty is depicted as a young woman with a determined expression, her hair flowing freely in the wind. She is wearing a Phrygian cap, which was a symbol of liberty in ancient Greece and Rome.
• Artistic merit: The Liberty profile on the 1948 silver dime is a beautiful and iconic work of art. Reich's design is both timeless and elegant, and it has been praised by numismatists and art historians alike.
• Collectibility: The 1948 silver dime is a popular collectible, and it is often sought after by numismatists and collectors. The Liberty profile is one of the most recognizable designs in American coinage, and it is a key part of the coin's appeal.

The Liberty profile on the 1948 silver dime is a powerful symbol of American history and values. It is a beautiful and iconic work of art, and it is a key part of the coin's collectibility.

5. Reverse

The reverse of the 1948 silver dime features a depiction of Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.

• Historical significance: Monticello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic buildings in the United States. It was designed by Jefferson himself and is considered a masterpiece of American architecture.
• Symbolism: Monticello is a symbol of Jefferson's ideals of democracy and freedom. It is also a reminder of the importance of education and the pursuit of knowledge.
• Artistic merit: The depiction of Monticello on the 1948 silver dime is a beautiful and accurate representation of the building. It is a testament to the skill of the coin's designer, John R. Sinnock.
• Collectibility: The 1948 silver dime is a popular collectible, and it is often sought after by numismatists and collectors. The depiction of Monticello is one of the most recognizable designs in American coinage, and it is a key part of the coin's appeal.

The depiction of Monticello on the 1948 silver dime is a powerful symbol of American history and values. It is a beautiful and iconic work of art, and it is a key part of the coin's collectibility.

6. Designer

John R. Sinnock was a talented American coin designer who created the iconic designs for the 1948 silver dime and several other US coins.

• Artistic style: Sinnock's designs are characterized by their simplicity, elegance, and attention to detail. The 1948 silver dime is a classic example of his work, with its graceful Liberty profile and detailed depiction of Monticello.
• Historical accuracy: Sinnock's designs are also notable for their historical accuracy. He spent a great deal of time researching his subjects, and his coins often feature accurate depictions of historical figures and events.
• Popularity: Sinnock's designs are among the most popular and recognizable in American coinage. The 1948 silver dime is one of the most collected coins in the United States, and it is often used in jewelry and other decorative items.
• Legacy: Sinnock's designs have had a lasting impact on American coinage. His work helped to shape the look and feel of American coins, and his designs continue to be used today.

John R. Sinnock was a master coin designer whose work has had a lasting impact on American coinage. The 1948 silver dime is one of his most famous and popular designs, and it is a testament to his skill and artistry.

FAQs about the 1948 Silver Dime

The 1948 silver dime is a popular collector's item and a valuable piece of American history. Here are some frequently asked questions about this iconic coin:

Question 1: What is the composition of the 1948 silver dime?

Answer: The 1948 silver dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.

Question 2: What is the weight of the 1948 silver dime?

Answer: The 1948 silver dime weighs 2.5 grams.

Question 3: What is the diameter of the 1948 silver dime?

Answer: The 1948 silver dime has a diameter of 17.9 millimeters.

Question 4: Who designed the 1948 silver dime?

Answer: The 1948 silver dime was designed by John R. Sinnock.

Question 5: Why is the 1948 silver dime so valuable?

Answer: The 1948 silver dime is valuable because it is made of 90% silver, which is a precious metal. Additionally, the coin is a popular collector's item due to its historical significance and beautiful design.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1948 silver dime. For more information, please consult a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert.

Summary of key takeaways:

• The 1948 silver dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.
• The 1948 silver dime weighs 2.5 grams and has a diameter of 17.9 millimeters.
• The 1948 silver dime was designed by John R. Sinnock.
• The 1948 silver dime is valuable because it is made of silver and is a popular collector's item.

Transition to the next article section:

The 1948 silver dime is a fascinating piece of American history and a valuable collectible. If you are interested in learning more about this iconic coin, please continue reading the article.

Conclusion

The 1948 silver dime is a classic American coin that is both historically significant and valuable. It is composed of 90% silver, which gives it a unique value and makes it a popular collectible. The coin's beautiful design and historical significance also make it a popular numismatic item.

The 1948 silver dime is a reminder of a time when the United States was a major producer of silver. The coin's design is also a testament to the skill and artistry of American coin designers. Today, the 1948 silver dime is a valuable collectible that is enjoyed by both numismatists and historians.