The Capped Bust Dime is one of the most fascinating and collectible coins in American history. Minted from 1809 to 1837, these dimes feature an iconic design of Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom and liberty. The series was struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, making them not only historically significant but also highly valuable among collectors.
Many Capped Bust Dimes are rare due to low mintage numbers, survival rates, and striking errors. Some examples have sold for tens of thousands of dollars at auction. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 most valuable Capped Bust Dimes, detailing what makes them so special and their estimated values.
Table of Contents
- 1 1822 Capped Bust Dime
- 2 1829 Capped Bust Dime
- 3 1820 Capped Bust Dime
- 4 1809 Capped Bust Dime
- 5 1811/09 Capped Bust Dime
- 6 1830 Capped Bust Dime
- 7 1835 Capped Bust Dime
- 8 1827 Capped Bust Dime
- 9 1814 Capped Bust Dime
- 10 1821 Capped Bust Dime
- 11 What Makes Capped Bust Dimes Valuable?
- 12 How to Identify a Valuable Capped Bust Dime
- 13 Table – 10 Most Valuable Capped Bust Dimes
1822 Capped Bust Dime
The 1822 Small E variety is one of the rarest Capped Bust Dimes. This variety features a smaller letter “E” in “UNITED” on the reverse, making it highly sought after by specialists in early U.S. coinage.
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- Why It’s Valuable: Very few were struck, and even fewer survived in high grades.
- Estimated Value: $50,000 – $90,000 for mint-condition examples.
1829 Capped Bust Dime
This rare variety of the 1829 dime has a curled base on the number “2” in the date, distinguishing it from the regular version. This small difference makes it a highly desirable coin among collectors.
- Why It’s Valuable: Unique variety with very few surviving examples.
- Estimated Value: $40,000 – $80,000, depending on condition.
1820 Capped Bust Dime
The 1820 Large 0 variety is a rare type where the “0” in the date is noticeably larger than usual. Because this was an error in die production, only a limited number of these coins were minted.
- Why It’s Valuable: A rare variety that attracts die variety collectors.
- Estimated Value: $30,000 – $75,000 in uncirculated grades.
1809 Capped Bust Dime
Being the first dime in the Capped Bust series, the 1809 dime is a historic and highly valuable coin. Early U.S. coinage often had low survival rates due to melting and heavy circulation, making uncirculated examples extremely rare.
- Why It’s Valuable: First-year issues are always desirable, especially in high grades.
- Estimated Value: $25,000 – $70,000 for well-preserved pieces.
1811/09 Capped Bust Dime
The 1811/09 overdate variety was created when a previously used 1809 die was repurposed for 1811, resulting in a faint “09” visible under the “11” in the date. This kind of overdate error makes the coin highly collectible.
- Why It’s Valuable: Overdate varieties are always in high demand.
- Estimated Value: $30,000 – $65,000 for high-grade specimens.
1830 Capped Bust Dime
The 1830 Small 10C variety is a rare type where the “10C” (indicating ten cents) on the reverse is smaller than on regular issues. This variety has intrigued collectors for decades.
- Why It’s Valuable: Distinct variety with a limited mintage.
- Estimated Value: $20,000 – $60,000, depending on grade.
1835 Capped Bust Dime
The 1835 Large 4 variety features an oversized number “4” in the date. This was due to variations in die engraving techniques at the time, resulting in multiple design versions of the same year.
- Why It’s Valuable: A key variety in the series that collectors actively seek.
- Estimated Value: $15,000 – $50,000 in higher grades.
1827 Capped Bust Dime
The 1827 Capped Bust Dime had a relatively low mintage, making it a difficult coin to find in high grades. Many of these dimes were heavily circulated, leaving few well-preserved examples.
Also Read: Top 10 Rare Striking Error Coins Worth Money
- Why It’s Valuable: Low mintage and high demand among collectors.
- Estimated Value: $10,000 – $45,000, based on condition.
1814 Capped Bust Dime
A rare die variation in 1814 resulted in a misaligned inscription, where “STATES” and “UNITED” appear abnormally spaced on the reverse. This was quickly corrected, but a few examples escaped into circulation.
- Why It’s Valuable: A unique die variety with strong collector interest.
- Estimated Value: $12,000 – $40,000 for mint-state pieces.
1821 Capped Bust Dime
The 1821 Small Date variety features a noticeably smaller date font compared to the standard version. This was a result of different punches being used at the U.S. Mint.
- Why It’s Valuable: Scarce variety that adds depth to a collection.
- Estimated Value: $10,000 – $35,000 in higher grades.
What Makes Capped Bust Dimes Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the high value of these dimes:
- Rarity: Some dates and varieties had very low mintages, making them hard to find.
- Survival Rate: Many early dimes were heavily circulated or melted down.
- Unique Varieties: Small differences in design, overdates, and misprints increase desirability.
- Historical Significance: Being from the early years of U.S. coinage, these dimes hold an important place in history.
- Condition: Higher-grade coins (uncirculated or lightly worn) are significantly more valuable.
How to Identify a Valuable Capped Bust Dime
If you think you may have a valuable Capped Bust Dime, here are some key identification steps:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark: Some dates and varieties are rarer than others.
- Look for Varieties: Small details, like changes in lettering or number sizes, can greatly affect value.
- Examine Condition: Coins in mint-state condition (no wear) are worth much more than circulated ones.
- Use a Magnifying Glass: Some varieties, like overdates, may only be visible under magnification.
- Consult a Coin Expert: A professional numismatist or grading service (PCGS, NGC) can authenticate and grade the coin..
Table – 10 Most Valuable Capped Bust Dimes
| Coin | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1822 Capped Bust Dime | Small “E” in “UNITED” | $50,000 – $90,000 |
| 1829 Capped Bust Dime | Curled base on “2” in date | $40,000 – $80,000 |
| 1820 Capped Bust Dime | Large “0” in date | $30,000 – $75,000 |
| 1809 Capped Bust Dime | First year of Capped Bust series | $25,000 – $70,000 |
| 1811/09 Capped Bust Dime | Overdate variety (1811 struck over 1809) | $30,000 – $65,000 |
| 1830 Capped Bust Dime | Small “10C” variety | $20,000 – $60,000 |
| 1835 Capped Bust Dime | Large “4” in date | $15,000 – $50,000 |
| 1827 Capped Bust Dime | Low mintage | $10,000 – $45,000 |
| 1814 Capped Bust Dime | Misaligned reverse inscription | $12,000 – $40,000 |
| 1821 Capped Bust Dime | Small date variety | $10,000 – $35,000 |
Capped Bust Dimes are some of the most exciting and valuable coins in U.S. numismatics. Whether you’re a collector looking for rare varieties or an investor searching for historic pieces, these dimes offer great historical and financial value. If you come across one in your collection, it may be worth getting it appraised—you might be holding a small fortune!
FAQs
What is a Capped Bust Dime?
The Capped Bust Dime is a U.S. silver dime minted from 1809 to 1837, featuring Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap.
Which Capped Bust Dime is the most valuable?
The 1822 Small E variety is among the most valuable, with prices reaching $90,000 in high grades.
How can I identify a rare Capped Bust Dime?
Look for key dates, minting errors, overdate varieties, and differences in font sizes or spacing on the coin.
Where can I sell a valuable Capped Bust Dime?
You can sell it through coin dealers, auctions (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers), or online marketplaces like eBay.
Are all Capped Bust Dimes valuable?
Not all are extremely valuable, but rare varieties and high-grade examples can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
