Bust Dime (1796-1837)

The capped bust design was the work of former U.S. Mint chief engraver William Kneass. This design was popular and was featured on dimes from 1809 to 1837. The design features extensive differences from the previous version. The reverse features a bald eagle grasping three arrows to symbolize strength as well as an olive branch to symbolize peace. The bald eagle’s breast also features a U.S. shield with 6 horizontal lines and 13 vertical stripes.

The capped bust dime was the first dime to state its face value on the coin. Previous designs had no written value on the coin and caused some confusion among foreigners.

Bust Dime Values-What Dealers Pay

The value of a bust dime can vary based on the coin’s mint year, location and overall condition. A capped bust small type coin in good condition from mint years 1828 to 1837 may be valued around $26. On the other hand, a draped bust variety from 1796 or 1797 may fetch nearly $3500 from dealers or collectors.

If you have a Bust Dime from a desired series, you may want to consider having your coin graded by a professional coin grading company such as PCGS or NGC. Doing so can not only help you verify the coin’s authenticity, but will also give you the best idea as to what your coin might be valued at by dealers and collectors.

Bust Dime Value is Conditional

Because a coin’s condition plays such a key role in its potential value, you always want to closely examine your coins to get a good idea of their condition. One simple way to do this is to pick a specific detail on your coin such as the stars around the coin’s outer rim. If your coin is in good condition, the stars may have noticeable wear and tear and in some cases may be completely worn down. If the stars on your coin have some slight erosion or discoloration, then the coin could possibly be assigned a grade of fine. If the stars are still very robust with no discoloration and no visible signs of erosion, then your coin may potentially be assigned a grade of extremely fine. Of course, you will also need to examine and compare all other details on the coin such as its text and imagery. Given the variance in value for coins in good condition and coins in extremely fine condition, this will be time well-spent.

The Top 5 Bust Dimes

One of the first dimes ever minted, the 1796 Bust Dime may be very valuable to dealers and collectors. One of these coins in good condition may fetch as much as $1300 while the same coin in brand new condition may be valued at $14,500 at auction.

A 1797 bust dime is also highly valued by dealers and collectors. This coin can be potentially valued at $3300 if in good condition while the same coin in extremely fine condition may be valued at $14,000.

The 1802 and 1804 are also highly prized by collectors and may be a missing piece in many collections. These Bust Dimes may be valued from $1800 to $3200 in good condition.

The 1822 is another key to the series. These Bust Dimes can start at $1700 if in good condition while one in extremely fine condition may be valued at $7500.

Bust Dime Values Are On the Rise

Due to their age and collectability, the values for Bust Dimes are typically rising. While any appreciation in value can be both slow and rapid, values for these dimes seldom decreases. As these coins age further and possibly become even more difficult to obtain, their values may potentially see significant increases over the years.