The Capped Bust Dime, minted from 1809 to 1837, is a small coin with big historical significance. As part of the early U.S. silver series, these dimes showcase the evolution of American coin design and minting technology during the first half of the 19th century. With their distinctive look, multiple varieties, and limited mintage runs, Capped Bust Dimes are a cornerstone of many advanced collections.
Overview of the Capped Bust Dime
- Years minted: 1809–1837
- Designer: John Reich (original); modified later by William Kneass
- Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
- Weight: 2.70 grams
- Diameter: ~18.5 mm
- Minted at: Philadelphia only
These dimes were among the first consistently struck ten-cent pieces after the early Draped Bust designs. The Capped Bust series brought a new level of elegance and realism to American coinage, while also reflecting growing industrial capabilities at the U.S. Mint.
Design Features
Obverse
Features Liberty facing left, wearing a draped Phrygian cap (also called a freedom cap), with curls of hair cascading down her neck. The design is surrounded by 13 stars and the mint year at the bottom.
Reverse
Depicts an eagle with a shield on its chest, clutching arrows and an olive branch. Above the eagle is the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” in a scroll (for earlier types), and encircling the reverse is “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”and the denomination “10 C.”
Types of Capped Bust Dimes
1. Large Diameter, Lettered Edge (1809–1828)
- These earlier issues feature lettered edges that read “TEN CENTS”
- Struck using hand-operated screw presses
- Wide range of die marriages and overdate varieties
2. Small Diameter, Reeded Edge (1831–1837)
- Introduced with new steam-powered presses
- More uniform and detailed design
- Edge is reeded like modern coins
Key Dates & Scarce Varieties
Capped Bust Dimes offer a playground for collectors of die varieties and errors. Some of the most notable include:
- 1809 – First year of issue; popular with type collectors
- 1822 – A scarce date with relatively low mintage
- 1824/2 – An important overdate variety
- 1830 Large 10C vs. Small 10C – Two distinct reverse types
- 1834 “Smushed Date” – Misaligned die causes compressed digits
With numerous die marriages recorded (especially in the Lettered Edge series), many collectors follow the JR (John Reich) variety system, which catalogs all known combinations.
Collector Value (2025 Market Estimates)
| Grade | Common Dates (e.g. 1833) | Scarce Dates/Varieties (e.g. 1822, overdates) |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $60–$100 | $300–$1,000+ |
| Fine (F-12) | $100–$180 | $600–$1,500+ |
| XF to AU | $200–$600+ | $2,000+ |
| Mint State | $800–$3,500+ | High-end rarities: $10,000–$50,000+ |
Pricing depends heavily on originality, strike quality, toning, and whether the coin is free from cleaning or damage.
Why Collect Capped Bust Dimes?
- ✅ Early U.S. Mint history: These coins represent the nation’s first cohesive silver coinage program.
- ✅ Rich variety potential: Die marriages, overdates, and minting anomalies offer endless research and collecting possibilities.
- ✅ Classic design: John Reich’s Liberty is bold and beautifully sculpted.
- ✅ Affordability: Many common dates are within reach for budget-conscious collectors.
Tips for Collectors
- Start with common dates like 1833 or 1835 to build familiarity.
- Avoid cleaned coins — original patina and toning are prized.
- Upgrade gradually — Many collectors start with lower-grade examples and trade up as their budget allows.
- Use the JR variety guide if you’re diving into die varieties and advanced collecting.
Final Thoughts
The Capped Bust Dime is a standout in early U.S. coinage, offering collectors a balance of affordability, artistic value, and historical depth. Whether you’re building a full date set or searching for rare varieties, these small silver coins offer big-time collecting rewards.
From the fires of the early U.S. Mint to the dawn of industrial coining, each Capped Bust Dime is a silver artifact from America’s formative decades — a true numismatic treasure.
If you’re looking to buy silver or sell silver, be sure to reach out to the shop. We also have rare coins in stock such as the Capped Bust dime.
