Draped Bust Dimes
(1796 - 1807)
The Draped Bust Dime was first issued in 1796, marking the beginning of regular dime production by the United States Mint. The obverse features Liberty with flowing hair and drapery at the neckline, while the reverse initially displayed a Small Eagle (1796–1797) before transitioning to the Heraldic Eagle design beginning in 1798.
These early dimes were struck in the original federal silver standard of approximately 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper. Mintages were generally low, and production was not continuous during the early years, contributing to the scarcity of certain dates.
Because of their age, limited survival rates, and two distinct reverse types, Draped Bust Dimes are considered foundational pieces in early U.S. silver coinage and are especially desirable in higher grades.
Check out dates & mintages for Draped Bust Dimes, below.Business Strikes
Type 1, Small Eagle
1796 | 22,135
1797 | 14,600
Type 2, Heraldic Eagle
1800 | 137,450
1801 | 101,120
1802 | 136,430
1803 | 198,060
1805 | 185,500
1828 Small Date | 125,000
1804 | 8,265
1807 | 165,000
If You Collect U.S. Ten-Cent Dimes, Check Out The ‘All Ten-Cent Dime Designs’ Type Set!
Check Out Our Guide to Identifying U.S. Constitutional Silver Coins
Think you might have silver coins in your pocket change? Learn the quick ways to spot United States Coinage made of silver by date, edge color, weight, and more.
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