Dimes
Draped Bust Dime 1796-1807
Introduction and Historical Context
The Draped Bust Dime was introduced in 1796, four years after the Coinage Act of 1792 established the U.S. Mint and authorized the production of coinage. The introduction of the dime was part of the U.S. Mint's efforts to create a standardized national currency to replace the diverse array of foreign coins that were still in circulation.
The Draped Bust design was used on multiple denominations, including the dollar, half dollar, quarter, and half dime, making it a central design in the early U.S. coinage series. The dime, being a smaller denomination, was crucial for everyday transactions, and its production marked an important step in the establishment of a national monetary system.
Designer
The Draped Bust design is attributed to Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. Scot’s design was influenced by contemporary neoclassical art and was likely based on a portrait by the famous American artist Gilbert Stuart. The portrait was meant to represent Liberty in a classical style, reflecting the ideals of freedom and democracy that were central to the new American republic.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Draped Bust Dime features a bust of Liberty facing right, with her hair tied with a ribbon and flowing behind her. She is draped in a classical gown, hence the name "Draped Bust." The inscription "LIBERTY" appears above the bust, and the date is positioned below. The design is surrounded by stars, representing the original colonies, with the number of stars varying depending on the year.
Reverse: The reverse design initially featured a small eagle surrounded by a wreath, with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircling the design. In 1798, this was changed to a heraldic eagle design, inspired by the Great Seal of the United States. The eagle holds a shield, arrows, and an olive branch, symbolizing defense and peace.
Interesting Historical Facts
Early U.S. Coinage: The Draped Bust Dime was among the first dimes struck by the U.S. Mint, making it a significant piece of American numismatic history. The series reflects the challenges and ambitions of the early U.S. Mint as it sought to establish a national currency.
Small Mintages: The Draped Bust Dime series was produced in relatively small quantities, particularly in the early years. The limited mintage was due to both the limited capacity of the Mint and the lower demand for small silver denominations during the period. As a result, surviving examples are relatively scarce, especially in higher grades.
Transition in Design: The change from the small eagle reverse to the heraldic eagle in 1798 marked a significant evolution in U.S. coinage. The heraldic eagle design was more formal and emblematic, aligning with the broader trend of adopting national symbols on coinage.
Die Variations: Early U.S. coinage, including the Draped Bust Dime, is known for its numerous die variations, reflecting the manual process of die creation at the time. These variations are of great interest to collectors and can significantly affect the value of individual coins.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1796: The 1796 Draped Bust Dime is the first year of issue and one of the most sought-after coins in the series. With a mintage of only 22,135 coins, it is rare and highly prized by collectors. The 1796 dimes typically feature 15 stars on the obverse, corresponding to the number of states in the Union at the time.
1797: The 1797 issue is notable for its two major varieties: one with 13 stars and another with 16 stars on the obverse. The 13-star variety is more common, while the 16-star variety reflects the brief period when Tennessee was admitted as the 16th state. Both varieties are rare, with the 16-star version being particularly scarce.
1798: The 1798 Draped Bust Dime saw the introduction of the heraldic eagle reverse. This year includes several die varieties, including overdates like the 1798/7, where the die was repunched with the new date. These overdate varieties are particularly desirable among collectors.
1804: The 1804 Draped Bust Dime is one of the key dates in the series, with a low mintage of only 8,265 coins. This issue is highly sought after due to its rarity and historical significance, as 1804 was a pivotal year in U.S. history.
1805-1807: These later years of the Draped Bust Dime series are also collectible, though they are generally more available than earlier issues. The 1807 dime, the final year of the Draped Bust design, is particularly noteworthy as it marks the end of this iconic series.
Capped Bust Dime 1809-1837
Introduction and Historical Context
The Capped Bust Dime was introduced in 1809, replacing the Draped Bust Dime series that had been in circulation since 1796. The new design was part of a broader initiative to modernize U.S. coinage, with a focus on improving the aesthetics and production quality of American coins. The Capped Bust Dime was produced during a period of rapid growth and industrialization in the United States, which contributed to an increased demand for small denomination coins.
Designer
The original Capped Bust design is attributed to John Reich, a German immigrant who was hired by the U.S. Mint as an assistant engraver. Reich’s design, which first appeared on larger silver denominations in 1807, was characterized by a classical representation of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom. The design was later modified by William Kneass, the Chief Engraver of the Mint, to accommodate technological advancements in coin production.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Capped Bust Dime features a bust of Liberty facing left, with flowing hair and a Phrygian cap (often referred to as a "Liberty cap"). The word "LIBERTY" appears on the headband of the cap, with thirteen stars surrounding the bust, representing the original colonies. The date is positioned below the bust. The design reflects the neoclassical influences that were popular in early 19th-century American art and coinage.
Reverse: The reverse design features a heraldic eagle, with outstretched wings, holding a shield, arrows, and an olive branch. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the eagle, with the denomination "10 C." below. The design is similar to that used on other silver coins of the period and reflects the nation's growing sense of identity and pride.
Interesting Historical Facts
Introduction of the Capped Bust Design: The Capped Bust design was part of a major redesign of U.S. coinage in the early 19th century, aimed at modernizing and improving the appearance of American coins. The design was introduced first on the half dollar in 1807, followed by the dime in 1809. The introduction of this design coincided with advances in minting technology, including the use of a closed collar, which allowed for more uniform and higher-quality strikes.
Technological Advances: The Capped Bust Dime was one of the first U.S. coins struck using a closed collar, a technological innovation that helped produce coins with more consistent diameters and reeded edges. This improvement not only enhanced the appearance of the coins but also made them more difficult to counterfeit.
Evolution of the Design: The Capped Bust Dime underwent several design modifications during its production. In 1828, the diameter of the dime was reduced, and the design was altered slightly to accommodate the change. These modifications, made by William Kneass, resulted in two distinct types within the series: the Large Diameter (1809-1828) and the Small Diameter (1828-1837) varieties.
Short-Lived Series: The Capped Bust Dime series was relatively short-lived, with production spanning less than three decades. The series was replaced in 1837 by the Liberty Seated design, which marked a new era in U.S. coinage.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1809: The 1809 Capped Bust Dime is the first year of issue and a key date in the series. With a relatively low mintage of 51,065 coins, it is rare and highly sought after by collectors. The 1809 dime is known for its sharp details and attractive design, making it a prized piece for numismatists.
1811: The 1811 Capped Bust Dime is another key date, with a low mintage of only 65,180 coins. This year is particularly notable for its rarity in high grades, making it a valuable coin in the series.
1820 Overdates: The 1820 Capped Bust Dime is famous for its overdates, including the 1820/19 and 1820/10 varieties. These overdates occurred when a die from a previous year was repunched with the current date. These varieties are highly collectible and add an extra layer of interest to the series.
1822: The 1822 Capped Bust Dime is one of the rarest dates in the series, with a mintage of only 100,000 coins. This issue is particularly challenging to find in higher grades, and it commands significant premiums at auction.
1828 Transition Year: The year 1828 marks the transition from the Large Diameter to the Small Diameter variety. Coins from this year are collectible as they represent a key moment in the series' evolution.
Proof Issues: While regular proof production did not begin until later in the 19th century, a small number of proof Capped Bust Dimes were struck as presentation pieces. These proofs are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Liberty Seated Dime 1837-1891
Introduction and Historical Context
The Liberty Seated Dime was introduced in 1837, replacing the Capped Bust Dime. The new design was part of a broader initiative to modernize U.S. coinage, reflecting the nation's growing sense of identity and progress. The Liberty Seated series is notable not only for its long duration but also for the numerous design modifications and varieties that were introduced over the years.
This period in U.S. history saw significant changes, including westward expansion, the rise of the industrial economy, and the challenges of the Civil War. The Liberty Seated Dime was a constant presence in American commerce during these transformative years, making it a coin rich in historical significance.
Designer
The Liberty Seated design was created by Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. Gobrecht was a highly skilled engraver and designer, and his work had a lasting impact on U.S. coinage. The Liberty Seated design, which depicted Liberty seated on a rock holding a shield and a pole topped with a Liberty cap, was inspired by earlier classical motifs and became a staple of U.S. silver coinage for decades.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Liberty Seated Dime features a full-length figure of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in her right hand and a pole with a Liberty cap in her left hand. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears on a ribbon across the shield. The date is positioned below the figure. The design is surrounded by thirteen stars, representing the original colonies.
Reverse: The reverse design initially featured a simple wreath surrounding the denomination "ONE DIME." This design was later modified to include additional details, such as an oak or laurel wreath, depending on the year and mint. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the design.
Interesting Historical Facts
Introduction of the Liberty Seated Design: The Liberty Seated design was introduced as part of a broader effort to modernize and standardize U.S. coinage. The design was inspired by classical art and was intended to convey the ideals of liberty and progress. It became the dominant motif on U.S. silver coinage for over half a century.
Multiple Design Variants: The Liberty Seated Dime series includes several distinct design variants, each with its own unique characteristics. These variants include the No Stars (1837-1838), Stars Obverse (1838-1860), Legend Obverse (1860-1891), and the addition of arrows at the date (1853-1855, 1873-1874) to indicate changes in the coin's weight.
Civil War Era Coins: The Liberty Seated Dime was in circulation during the Civil War, a period of significant economic upheaval. Coins from this era are particularly prized by collectors due to their historical significance and the challenges of coin production during the war.
Branch Mint Production: The Liberty Seated Dime was produced at multiple mints, including Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, and Carson City. Coins from the Carson City Mint (CC) are especially sought after due to their low mintages and the mint's association with the Western frontier.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1837 No Stars: The 1837 Liberty Seated Dime is the first year of issue and one of the most significant coins in the series. The earliest examples were struck without stars on the obverse, making the No Stars variety highly collectible. The 1837 issue is known for its sharp strikes and attractive design.
1838-O: The 1838-O Liberty Seated Dime is the first dime produced at the New Orleans Mint and is notable for its rarity. With a mintage of only 406,034 coins, it is one of the key dates in the series and is particularly scarce in higher grades.
1853 Arrows and Rays: In 1853, arrows were added to the date and rays were added around the reverse wreath to indicate a reduction in the coin's weight. This design was only used for one year, making the 1853 Arrows and Rays dime a popular and collectible variety.
1860-1861 Transitional Varieties: In 1860, the design of the Liberty Seated Dime was modified to remove the stars from the obverse, replacing them with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." Coins from 1860 and 1861 can be found with both the old and new designs, making these years particularly interesting for collectors.
1871-CC and 1873-CC: The Carson City Mint produced some of the most sought-after Liberty Seated Dimes. The 1871-CC and 1873-CC dimes are among the rarest and most valuable coins in the series, with extremely low mintages. These coins are highly prized by collectors, especially in higher grades.
Proof Issues: Proof Liberty Seated Dimes were struck in limited quantities each year, particularly from the 1850s onward. These coins are highly collectible, with certain dates being especially rare and valuable.
Barber Dime 1892-1916
Introduction and Historical Context
The Barber Dime was introduced in 1892, replacing the Liberty Seated Dime, which had been in circulation since 1837. The U.S. Mint decided to redesign its silver coinage in the late 19th century due to growing criticism that the existing designs were outdated and not reflective of contemporary American values. After a public competition to design the new coins failed to produce a satisfactory result, the task was assigned to the Chief Engraver of the Mint, Charles E. Barber.
The Barber Dime was produced during a period of significant economic and industrial growth in the United States, reflecting the nation's emergence as a global power. The series also spans several important historical events, including the Spanish-American War and the beginning of the Progressive Era.
Designer
Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint from 1879 to 1917, designed the Barber Dime. Barber was a prolific engraver, responsible for numerous coins and medals during his long career. His design for the Barber Dime was characterized by its simplicity and classical influences, featuring a strong, dignified profile of Liberty. While Barber's designs were sometimes criticized for their lack of artistic flair, they were practical and well-suited to the mass production techniques of the time.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Barber Dime features a portrait of Liberty facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap with a laurel wreath tied around it. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the design, with the date positioned below the bust. The design is simple and direct, reflecting the neoclassical style that was popular in American coinage at the time.
Reverse: The reverse design features the denomination "ONE DIME" within a wreath composed of various agricultural products, including corn, wheat, and oak leaves. The inscription "E PLURIBUS UNUM" does not appear on the dime, as it was not required by law for coins of this denomination at the time.
Interesting Historical Facts
Standardization Across Silver Coins: The Barber Dime was part of a series of uniform designs that also included the Barber Quarter and Barber Half Dollar. This standardization was intended to create a cohesive look across the nation’s silver coinage, with similar designs and inscriptions on all three denominations.
Mixed Public Reception: While the Barber Dime was practical and well-executed, it was not universally loved by the public or contemporary critics. Some felt that the design lacked the artistic creativity that had characterized earlier coinage. Despite this, the Barber Dime became a staple of American commerce for over two decades.
Introduction of the Mercury Dime: The Barber Dime was replaced in 1916 by the Mercury Dime, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, as part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. coinage with more artistically ambitious designs. The Mercury Dime was part of the movement that also introduced the Walking Liberty Half Dollar and the Standing Liberty Quarter.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1892-P, O, and S: The first year of the Barber Dime series saw coins struck at all three mints: Philadelphia (no mintmark), New Orleans (O), and San Francisco (S). These coins are significant as the inaugural issues of the series, and while not particularly rare, they are popular among collectors.
1894-S: The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most famous and valuable coins in all of American numismatics. With a mintage of only 24 coins, it is an extreme rarity, with only about nine known examples in existence today. The story behind the 1894-S is shrouded in mystery, with some suggesting they were struck as gifts for dignitaries or Mint officials. High-grade examples of the 1894-S have fetched millions of dollars at auction, making it a true "holy grail" for collectors.
1895-O: The 1895-O Barber Dime, struck at the New Orleans Mint, is another key date in the series. With a mintage of just 440,000, it is rare in all grades, especially in higher grades where it commands significant premiums.
1896-S, 1901-S, and 1903-S: These San Francisco Mint issues are also considered key dates within the series. Each has a relatively low mintage, and they are particularly scarce in uncirculated condition. Collectors seeking to complete a high-grade set of Barber Dimes must contend with the rarity and high cost of these dates.
Proof Issues: Proof Barber Dimes were struck each year from 1892 to 1915, with mintages generally ranging from 400 to 1,000 coins. Proof examples are highly prized by collectors for their sharp details and reflective surfaces, and certain dates are particularly rare and valuable.
Mercury Dime 1916-1945
Introduction and Historical Context
The Mercury Dime was introduced in 1916, replacing the Barber Dime, which had been in circulation since 1892. The introduction of the Mercury Dime was part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. coinage with more artistically ambitious designs. This movement also included the introduction of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar and the Standing Liberty Quarter, all of which debuted in 1916.
The design of the Mercury Dime was created during a period of significant change and optimism in the United States, reflecting the nation’s aspirations and its role on the global stage during and after World War I. The coin was in circulation throughout the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and World War II, making it a symbol of a pivotal era in American history.
Designer
The Mercury Dime was designed by Adolph A. Weinman, a prominent American sculptor and engraver who also designed the Walking Liberty Half Dollar. Weinman’s design for the dime features a striking and allegorical representation of Liberty, which was often mistakenly thought to depict the Roman god Mercury—hence the popular nickname for the coin.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Mercury Dime features a profile portrait of Liberty facing left, wearing a winged Phrygian cap, which symbolizes freedom of thought. The design is a neoclassical interpretation of Liberty, with the word "LIBERTY" inscribed along the rim and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" positioned to the right. The date appears at the bottom of the design.
Reverse: The reverse design features a fasces, a bundle of rods with an axe blade, symbolizing strength and unity. The fasces is encircled by an olive branch, representing peace. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DIME" are arranged around the central motif, with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" positioned to the left of the fasces.
Interesting Historical Facts
Symbolism and Misinterpretation: The winged cap on Liberty was intended by Weinman to symbolize freedom of thought, but the design was quickly associated with the Roman god Mercury, who was often depicted with winged sandals. This led to the coin being popularly known as the "Mercury Dime," despite its official designation as the Winged Liberty Head Dime.
Introduction During World War I: The Mercury Dime was introduced in 1916, during World War I, a time of significant global upheaval. The coin’s imagery of strength and peace was particularly resonant as the United States began to emerge as a world power.
Long Circulation: The Mercury Dime was produced for nearly three decades, remaining in circulation until 1945. The coin was a familiar part of everyday American life, circulating widely across the country. The design was replaced in 1946 by the Roosevelt Dime, introduced to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt following his death in 1945.
Quality of Strikes: The Mercury Dime is known for its high relief and detailed design, but this also made it challenging to produce well-struck examples. Collectors often seek out coins with "Full Bands" on the reverse, referring to the horizontal bands on the fasces that are fully defined and separated.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1916-D: The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the key date of the series and one of the most sought-after coins in all of U.S. numismatics. With a mintage of only 264,000 coins, it is rare in all grades, especially in higher grades. The 1916-D is often the centerpiece of a Mercury Dime collection and commands significant premiums.
1921 and 1921-D: Both the 1921 and 1921-D Mercury Dimes are key dates in the series, with low mintages due to the economic conditions of the post-World War I recession. These coins are particularly scarce in higher grades, and they are essential for completing a full set of Mercury Dimes.
1942/41 and 1942/41-D Overdates: The 1942/41 overdate varieties, where a 1941 die was repunched with the 1942 date, are among the most famous and valuable varieties in the series. These coins are rare and highly sought after, especially in higher grades.
Full Bands Varieties: Collectors of Mercury Dimes often seek coins with fully struck horizontal bands on the fasces on the reverse, known as "Full Bands" (FB). Coins with Full Bands are more challenging to find and typically command higher prices, especially for key dates like the 1916-D and 1921 issues.
Proof Issues: Proof Mercury Dimes were struck from 1936 to 1942, with relatively low mintages each year. Proof examples are highly prized by collectors for their sharp details and reflective surfaces. The 1936 Proof, the first of the series, is particularly notable for its rarity.
Roosevelt Dime 1946-Present
Introduction and Historical Context
The Roosevelt Dime was authorized shortly after Roosevelt's death in April 1945, reflecting the nation's deep respect and admiration for the late president. The decision to place Roosevelt's likeness on the dime was also influenced by his association with the March of Dimes, a fundraising campaign that supported polio research and treatment. Roosevelt himself had been afflicted with polio, and his efforts to combat the disease made the dime an especially meaningful tribute.
The Roosevelt Dime debuted on January 30, 1946, which would have been Roosevelt's 64th birthday. The coin has been produced every year since, making it one of the longest-running designs in U.S. coinage history.
Designer
The Roosevelt Dime was designed by John R. Sinnock, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time. Sinnock's design was straightforward and dignified, reflecting the sober respect with which Roosevelt was regarded. Sinnock also designed the Roosevelt Medal, awarded annually by the Theodore Roosevelt Association.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Roosevelt Dime features a profile portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt facing left. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears to the left of the portrait, while the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is positioned below the chin. The designer's initials "JS" are located at the base of the neck, and the date is placed to the right of the portrait.
Reverse: The reverse design features a torch in the center, symbolizing liberty, flanked by an olive branch on the left and an oak branch on the right, representing peace and strength, respectively. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" encircle the design, with the denomination "ONE DIME" positioned at the bottom.
Interesting Historical Facts
Tribute to Roosevelt and the March of Dimes: The Roosevelt Dime was the first U.S. coin to be designed in honor of a specific individual shortly after their death. The connection to the March of Dimes, an organization Roosevelt helped to establish, added further significance to the choice of the dime as the denomination to bear his likeness.
Controversy Over Initials: Shortly after the release of the Roosevelt Dime, rumors circulated that the initials "JS" on the obverse stood for Joseph Stalin, rather than John Sinnock. This was during the early Cold War period, and the rumors were quickly debunked by the Mint, but they reflect the tense political atmosphere of the time.
Transition to Clad Coinage: In 1965, the composition of the Roosevelt Dime was changed from 90% silver to a copper-nickel clad composition due to rising silver prices and the need to conserve the precious metal. The switch to clad coinage marked the end of silver coinage in circulation and began a new era in U.S. coinage.
Continuous Production: The Roosevelt Dime has been in continuous production since its introduction, making it one of the longest-running coin designs in U.S. history. Despite changes in metal composition and minting techniques, the basic design has remained unchanged.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1949-S and 1950-S: Early Roosevelt Dimes struck at the San Francisco Mint are key dates in the series. Both the 1949-S and 1950-S dimes are scarce in high grades and are sought after by collectors.
1964-D Doubled Die Obverse: The 1964-D Roosevelt Dime features a notable doubled die obverse variety, where doubling is visible on the date and some of the lettering. This variety is highly prized by collectors, particularly in higher grades.
1965 Silver Composition: Although the Mint officially switched to clad coinage in 1965, a small number of 1965 Roosevelt Dimes were accidentally struck on silver planchets intended for 1964 dimes. These silver 1965 dimes are extremely rare and valuable.
Full Torch Varieties: Similar to the "Full Bands" on Mercury Dimes, Roosevelt Dimes are often collected for their "Full Torch" designation, where the horizontal bands and vertical lines of the torch on the reverse are fully struck. Coins with Full Torch details, particularly from earlier years, command premiums.
Modern Proofs and Special Issues: Starting in 1992, the U.S. Mint began producing silver proof sets that included Roosevelt Dimes struck in 90% silver. These modern silver proofs are popular among collectors. Additionally, in 2015, the Mint issued a special 75th-anniversary set that included a reverse proof and a regular proof dime, both struck in 90% silver.