Capped Bust Dime 1809 - 1837

The Capped Bust Dime was a dime coin that was minted by the United States from 1809 to 1837. It featured a design created by John Reich, an engraver at the United States Mint. The design of the Capped Bust Dime went through a few variations during its production period.

The first type of Capped Bust Dime, known as the "Large Size" or "Turban Head" design, was produced from 1809 to 1828. The obverse (front) of the coin featured the bust of Liberty facing left, wearing a turban-like cap. The word "LIBERTY" was inscribed above the bust, and the date was placed below it. The reverse (back) of the coin showcased an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, surrounded by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "10 C."

In 1828, the design was modified to the "Small Size" or "Capped Bust" design. The obverse still featured the bust of Liberty facing left, but the turban-like cap was replaced with a close-fitting cap. The inscriptions remained the same. The reverse design was also slightly altered, with the eagle positioned differently and a smaller inscription of the denomination "10 C." The "Small Size" Capped Bust Dimes were produced from 1828 to 1837.

Throughout the production period of the Capped Bust Dime, various mint marks were used to indicate the mint where the coin was produced. The main mint facilities at the time were in Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), and occasionally in other cities such as Dahlonega, Georgia (D), and Charlotte, North Carolina (C).

Capped Bust Dimes were made of a silver-copper alloy, with a weight of 2.7 grams and a diameter of 18.8 millimeters. They had a reeded edge, which means the edge of the coin had grooves.

The Capped Bust Dime series was replaced by the Seated Liberty Dime in 1837. These dimes hold historical significance as they were produced during a period of expansion and growth in the United States and provide a glimpse into the early days of the nation's coinage. Today, Capped Bust Dimes are sought after by coin collectors and numismatists for their historical value and rarity.

Key Dates

1809/6: This overdate variety is one of the most famous and valuable Capped Bust Dimes. It features a "9 over 6" date, where the underlying 6 is visible beneath the 9. These coins are quite rare and highly sought after by collectors.

1822: The 1822 Capped Bust Dime is considered one of the rarest dates in the series. It has a low mintage and surviving examples are scarce. These dimes command a significant premium in the numismatic market.

1829: The 1829 Capped Bust Dime is another low-mintage issue, making it highly desirable among collectors. It is particularly difficult to find in high grades.

1830 Large 10C: In 1830, the diameter of the Capped Bust Dime was reduced from 18.8 mm to 18.5 mm. However, some dimes were struck using the old, larger planchets. These are known as the 1830 Large 10C variety and are considered rare.

1831: The 1831 Capped Bust Dime is a low-mintage issue and is scarce in higher grades. It is especially difficult to find in uncirculated condition.

1835: The 1835 Capped Bust Dime is another key date in the series. It has a low mintage and is highly sought after by collectors.