-
Inventory:
3 In Stock
- Product ID: 23014
Checkout
The 1827 Bust Dime is part of the Draped Bust series, a critical chapter in the history of U.S. coinage. Struck from 1796 to 1807 and then resumed in the 1820s, this series marked a period of transition for the young United States Mint. The 1827 Bust Dime was minted during the presidency of John Quincy Adams, a time when the nation was consolidating its monetary system and furthering its economic stability. The coin, a product of the U.S. Mint's operations in Philadelphia, holds historical value as an early example of the nation's evolving coinage, moving toward the more standardized designs seen in later years.
The design of the 1827 Bust Dime is attributed to John Reich, a German-born engraver who worked at the U.S. Mint. The obverse features a finely detailed portrait of Lady Liberty facing left, her hair arranged in a flowing cap. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed on her headband, and the surrounding stars represent the original 13 colonies. The design showcases Reich’s skillful approach to creating a recognizable national image of Liberty. On the reverse side, the coin features a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest, an olive branch in one talon, and arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and strength. Above the eagle, the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is inscribed, while the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “TEN CENTS” are displayed around the eagle. This reverse design would remain a staple in American coinage for many years to come.
Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1827 Bust Dime was made from a silver alloy that consisted of 90% silver and 10% copper. During this period, the U.S. Mint used a variety of silver-based alloys for its coinage, which were durable enough for circulation and provided a reliable medium of exchange. The minting of the 1827 Bust Dime was relatively modest compared to other denominations, with a mintage of just 3.2 million pieces. This low mintage, combined with the coin's age, makes it a prized item for collectors today, particularly those focused on early U.S. coinage. However, the dimes were intended for daily use, which meant that many of these coins circulated heavily and, as a result, only a few examples have survived in high-quality condition.
The 1827 Bust Dime was part of a broader effort by the U.S. Mint to produce small-denomination coins to accommodate the growing need for smaller currency in a developing economy. At the time, dimes were frequently used for small transactions, and the availability of a uniform coinage system helped standardize trade. Dimes like the 1827 coin were widely circulated in everyday commerce, despite the fact that they were made in limited quantities. The coin's role in helping to regulate and stabilize the economy of the early United States adds an important layer of significance to its historical value.
In terms of condition, the 1827 Bust Dime in Very Good (VG) condition is an excellent example for collectors who want a representative piece of early U.S. coinage without paying for the high premiums of coins in better grades. A Very Good example of this coin typically shows considerable wear, which affects the high points of the design, such as the hair on Liberty’s head and the feathers on the eagle’s wings. The details are still discernible, although the features may be faint or slightly flattened. The stars around Liberty’s bust and the legends surrounding the eagle are often worn down in this grade, making the coin less crisp but still identifiable. These coins are usually the result of heavy circulation, and the wear they show is a testament to their extensive use in trade and commerce during the 19th century.
For collectors, the condition of a coin can significantly impact its value, with higher grades fetching much higher prices. Coins in Fine or higher grades will typically command premiums, while coins in Very Good or Good grades are more affordable and accessible to those starting or expanding their collections. The 1827 Bust Dime in Very Good condition offers a great opportunity to acquire a piece of early American coinage at a relatively lower price point. These coins are still considered collectible due to their historical importance and relatively limited availability in certain grades.
The historical context surrounding the 1827 Bust Dime is important to understanding its significance in U.S. coinage. The early 19th century saw the United States expanding its influence, both politically and economically. With the establishment of a central mint in Philadelphia and the development of a stable currency system, the country was making strides toward becoming an economically cohesive unit. The Bust Dime series represents this effort and is a reflection of the growing nation’s desire for a unified currency system. The 1827 Bust Dime serves as a reminder of the early struggles and accomplishments of the United States as it sought to establish itself on the world stage.
The 1827 Bust Dime also holds significance due to its role in the history of U.S. coin design. The Draped Bust series, including this issue, was one of the first efforts to create a standardized design for U.S. coinage. While the design of Liberty on the obverse and the eagle on the reverse became iconic, the coin’s design was subject to changes over time. This evolution is particularly evident in the differences between the early and later versions of the Bust Dime, including variations in the number of stars and the positioning of the date. The 1827 Bust Dime is often viewed by collectors as a transitional piece, marking the evolution of the Mint’s design work and the maturing of the U.S. coinage system.
In conclusion, the 1827 Bust Dime, in Very Good condition, is a highly collectible coin with deep historical significance. The coin’s design, minting, and condition all contribute to its appeal for collectors. The 1827 Bust Dime provides insight into the early days of the U.S. Mint and the developing American economy. While it may show signs of wear due to its long circulation, its status as a key piece of U.S. numismatic history makes it a desirable item for collectors seeking a tangible connection to the early years of the United States. Whether for its historical importance, its design, or its role in the early American monetary system, the 1827 Bust Dime remains an important and collectible piece of American coinage history.