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- Product ID: 34849
The 1829 Bust Dime, Large 10c, Extra Fine, is a remarkable example of early U.S. coinage. The Bust Dime series was first introduced in 1796, and it continued until 1837, serving as the nation’s primary small silver coinage. The 1829 issue stands out within the series as a significant representation of both the U.S. Mint’s evolving craftsmanship and the nation’s growing economic activity. This coin, struck during the presidency of Andrew Jackson, was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the nation’s sole mint at the time. The Bust Dime is one of the key coins in the study of early American numismatics and is particularly valued by collectors due to its distinctive design, historical importance, and limited mintage. The 1829 issue is particularly noted for its larger "10c" denomination, which is distinguishable from later years of the Bust Dime series.
The design of the 1829 Bust Dime features one of the most iconic and beloved images in American coinage, the portrait of Liberty, created by the renowned engraver John Reich. The obverse of the coin shows Liberty’s bust in profile, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The design is elegant and refined, showcasing Liberty’s flowing hair and regal appearance. This portrait of Liberty was used throughout the series, making it one of the most recognizable depictions of the nation’s values. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and the year “1829.” The reverse of the coin features an eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and military strength, respectively. Above the eagle are the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with the coin’s denomination, “10C,” appearing below. The reverse design, like the obverse, embodies the ideals of the United States, representing both its strength and its pursuit of peace. The large "10c" on the reverse is one of the key characteristics of the 1829 issue, as the size of the denomination was reduced in later years, making this version especially desirable to collectors.
The 1829 Bust Dime was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the only mint in operation at the time. The Philadelphia Mint played a central role in the production of early U.S. coinage, and it is responsible for minting many of the nation’s most significant early coins. In 1829, the U.S. Mint was still in its early years, and coinage was a key part of the growing economy of the young republic. The Philadelphia Mint’s craftsmanship and attention to detail were crucial in producing coins that would be widely accepted as both currency and representations of the United States’ values. The 1829 Bust Dime, as part of the nation’s regular coinage, would have seen extensive circulation, contributing to the economic transactions of the time. The Philadelphia Mint’s production of these dimes helped meet the needs of the country’s growing population and expanding trade networks, all while adhering to the high standards of artistry that are a hallmark of early U.S. coinage.
The mintage of the 1829 Bust Dime was relatively modest compared to other issues, with around 2.5 million coins struck that year. While the mintage is higher than some other years in the Bust Dime series, the 1829 coin is still considered relatively scarce today, especially in higher grades. The limited number of coins minted, combined with the fact that many were heavily circulated over time, means that finding well-preserved examples of the 1829 Bust Dime can be challenging. The scarcity of high-quality specimens increases the coin's value in the numismatic market, making it highly sought after by collectors. The 1829 issue is particularly important for collectors who specialize in early U.S. silver coins, as it represents an important year in the history of the Bust Dime series and the broader context of U.S. coinage production.
The condition of the 1829 Bust Dime, graded Extra Fine (XF), indicates that the coin is well-preserved, with most of the design details still clearly visible but with some wear from circulation. In this grade, the coin exhibits light wear on the high points of the design, such as Liberty’s cheek and the eagle’s wings, but the overall details remain sharp and distinct. The coin retains a significant amount of its original luster, and the design elements are still easy to discern, especially when compared to coins in lower grades. An Extra Fine example of the 1829 Bust Dime is a highly desirable piece for collectors, as it strikes a balance between rarity, historical significance, and visual appeal. While not in mint state, the Extra Fine grade still showcases the coin's impressive craftsmanship and intricate design, making it a standout piece in any collection.
The 1829 Bust Dime is highly prized by collectors of early U.S. silver coins for its combination of historical significance, distinctive design, and rarity. As one of the coins produced in the early years of the U.S. Mint’s operations, it serves as a testament to the development of American coinage. The Bust Dime series, which was produced from 1796 to 1837, is considered a foundational part of the nation’s coinage history, and the 1829 issue is an important link in that legacy. The large "10c" on the reverse is a defining characteristic of this particular issue, and its relatively higher mintage compared to other years in the series makes it a key coin for collectors interested in the full range of Bust Dimes.
Collecting the 1829 Bust Dime, Large 10c, Extra Fine is an excellent way to appreciate both the artistry and history of early American coinage. The coin represents a time of growth and transition for the United States, when the country was establishing its place in the world and its coinage was evolving to meet the demands of an expanding economy. The Bust Dime series itself is notable for its artistry, with the designs on both the obverse and reverse showcasing the skill of U.S. Mint engravers. The 1829 coin, with its distinctive large "10c" and strong design elements, is a prime example of this artistry, and owning one allows collectors to connect with the history of the nation during the early 19th century.
In conclusion, the 1829 Bust Dime, Large 10c, Extra Fine, is a standout coin in the history of U.S. coinage. Its design, minted in the years following the founding of the U.S. Mint, captures the spirit of the early republic and highlights the nation’s values of liberty, peace, and strength. The 1829 issue, with its relatively high mintage and unique characteristics, is a significant coin for collectors of early U.S. silver coins. The Extra Fine grade indicates that this coin is well-preserved, with most of the design details still visible, making it a valuable addition to any collection. Whether viewed as a historical artifact, a work of art, or a rare collectible, the 1829 Bust Dime is a prized piece in the numismatic world.