Like the dollars, half dollars, quarters, and half dimes of the same design, the Seated Liberty dimes were designed by Christian Gobrecht. The initial design, first struck in 1837, featured Liberty seated with a heraldic shield. Because of their small size, the dimes were not required to feature an eagle on the reverse; instead, they simply depicted the words "United States of America" circling a wreath with "One Dime" written in the middle.

In 1838, 13 stars were added to the obverse, circling Lady Liberty. From 1853 until 1855, and again from 1873 until 1874, arrows were added on either side of the date, which reduced the coins’ weight. In 1860, the words "United States of America" were moved to the front of the coin, replacing the stars around Lady Liberty. This design continued until 1892, when it was replaced by the Barber dime.

Seated Liberty dimes were so thin that many examples are bent or dented.