1876 Proof

Philadelphia struck 1,150 proof dimes in 1876, the largest Seated dime proof delivery to that date and a clear reflection of collector demand around the Centennial Exposition that ran in Philadelphia from May 10 to November 10. The Exposition put the Mint under unusual public visibility, drove proof-set subscription orders well above the surrounding years' levels, and produced both the 1876 and 1876-CC business strikes in record quantities. The 1876 proof carries the post-Arrows Legend No Motto form that had governed the obverse since arrows were removed after 1874, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" replacing Gobrecht's original stars and the wreath reverse unchanged. Weight held at the 2.50-gram standard set by the Coinage Act of February 12, 1873, on a 17.9-millimeter reeded silver planchet.

Strike on the date reads as standard polished-die Philadelphia proof work but with a noticeably higher share of strong Cameo and Deep Cameo examples than the surrounding years, a function of fresh dies and unusual care taken on Centennial-year deliveries. PCGS, the Professional Coin Grading Service, and NGC, the Numismatic Guaranty Company, designations for Cameo and Deep Cameo exist in greater numbers for the date than for any preceding Seated proof. Authentication follows the standard medal-press diagnostics: squared rims perpendicular to the field, watery die-polish lines visible under a 10x loupe (a jeweler's magnifier), complete denticles, full drapery and hair detail on Liberty, and sharp wreath leaves. The 2.50-gram weight on a 90 percent silver planchet anchors the physical check. The 1876 is a relatively common Seated proof in the certified census but a desirable one for the strong-contrast pieces that the year produces in unusual numbers.

The 1,150 figure represents a clear step up from the 700-piece 1874 and 1875 deliveries and reflects the Centennial year's effect on the subscription program. The surviving certified roster runs deep in PR-63 through PR-66, with PR-67 and PR-67+ available with patience, and Cameo coins reasonably accessible compared with surrounding years. Most collectors approach the date through certified slabs at the grade level that fits a date-set or year-set budget. The Regular rarity badge on this page follows site convention for all proof entries. For the broader story of Gobrecht's design, the 1873 Coinage Act, and the series' proof program, see the Seated Liberty Dime series history.