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Draped Bust Dimes
The Draped Bust Dime is an essential and iconic coin in the history of U.S. currency, offering a rare glimpse into the early days of American coinage. Minted from 1796 to 1807, the Draped Bust Dime is one of the first designs to feature Lady Liberty on a U.S. coin, a design that would become a symbol of the nation's fledgling identity. With its elegance and historical significance, the Draped Bust Dime is a must-have for collectors seeking to add a true piece of American history to their collection.
Designed by renowned engraver Robert Scot, the obverse of the Draped Bust Dime showcases a portrait of Lady Liberty draped in flowing robes, her hair styled with a graceful ribbon tied at the back. The word "LIBERTY" arcs above her, while the year of minting is inscribed beneath her profile. On the reverse, a small but proud eagle is depicted with wings spread, surrounded by a wreath of olive and palm leaves. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” appears along the top, with the denomination “10C” (representing 10 cents) below.
What makes the Draped Bust Dime particularly sought after is its rarity and historical importance. Minted during the very early years of the U.S. Mint, the coin had a relatively low mintage, and many early examples are extremely scarce, especially in high grades. The coin’s distinctive design, which was later replaced by the Heraldic Eagle design, is a testament to the U.S. Mint's early experimentation with coin art and engraving.
Today, Draped Bust Dimes are highly prized by collectors for both their beauty and their historical significance. Given their limited production and the era in which they were minted, these coins are not only an excellent addition to any collection but also a wise investment. Their scarcity, combined with the undeniable appeal of the Draped Bust design, makes them a coveted item in the numismatic world.
Whether you're an experienced collector or just beginning your journey into the world of rare coins, the Draped Bust Dime offers a chance to own a piece of American history. This is a coin that tells the story of a young nation, eager to define its identity and create a lasting legacy. Add a Draped Bust Dime to your collection today and enjoy a connection to the origins of American coinage.
Draped Bust Dime Coins FAQs
The primary Draped Bust dime varieties are:
1796 Small Eagle Reverse: This is the first year of the Draped Bust dime, and it features a small eagle on the reverse. Within this year, there are two significant varieties based on the number of stars on the obverse: one with 15 stars and another with 16 stars. The addition of the 16th star represented the admission of Tennessee to the Union.
1797 Small Eagle Reverse: This year also features the small eagle reverse. There are several varieties for 1797 based on the number of stars on the obverse (13, 15, or 16 stars) and the arrangement of the stars.
1798-1807 Heraldic Eagle Reverse: Starting in 1798, the reverse design was changed to feature a larger, heraldic eagle. This design continued until 1807. Within this period, there are various minor varieties based on differences in the date, lettering, and other design elements.
While these are the primary design varieties, there are other more subtle variations and die varieties that are of interest to specialized collectors and numismatists. If you're considering collecting Draped Bust dimes or studying their varieties in detail, consulting a specialized numismatic reference or expert can provide more in-depth information. Call us!