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The 1836 Bust Dime is a significant coin in the history of U.S. numismatics, representing the final year of production for the early "Capped Bust" design, which had been introduced in 1809. The design was used for several types of denominations and reflects the era's classical style of coinage. This specific Bust Dime is part of a series that has been admired by collectors for its historical importance, artistic value, and relatively small mintage. It was minted during a time when the United States was still solidifying its identity and growing as a nation, which makes this coin particularly interesting to collectors and historians alike. The 1836 Bust Dime offers a glimpse into the early days of U.S. coinage and remains an important collectible piece from the early 19th century.
The design of the 1836 Bust Dime is credited to the U.S. Mint’s Chief Engraver, John Reich. The obverse features a portrait of Lady Liberty facing left, wearing a Phrygian cap inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The flowing hair is artistically detailed, and Liberty’s serene expression symbolizes the ideals of freedom and independence. Surrounding Liberty are 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies, and the date "1836" is inscribed below the bust. The reverse side of the coin features a heraldic eagle, a symbol of the United States' strength and sovereignty. The eagle is perched on a bundle of arrows, clutching an olive branch in its talons, which symbolize the balance between war and peace. Above the eagle are the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," and the denomination "10 C" (10 cents) is displayed on the lower reverse. This design, with its blend of classical artistry and American symbolism, would influence future coin designs in the U.S. Mint.
The 1836 Bust Dime was struck at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, and it is composed of 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, which was the standard alloy used for U.S. dimes at the time. The coin weighs approximately 2.5 grams and has a diameter of 18 millimeters, making it a small and lightweight coin, characteristic of the denomination. The use of silver was important for ensuring that coins maintained value in a growing economy, and the dime was a key part of the nation’s currency circulation. The Bust Dime series was produced as part of an effort to establish a reliable and standardized currency system for the young nation, and coins like the 1836 Bust Dime were used widely in everyday transactions during the period.
The mintage of the 1836 Bust Dime is believed to have been relatively small compared to some of the more common coins of the time. While exact mintage figures for this year are not available, it is estimated that the production of the 1836 Bust Dime was limited, and fewer coins were struck than in other years of the series. This, combined with the fact that many coins from this period saw heavy use in circulation, means that surviving examples of the 1836 Bust Dime, especially those in higher grades, are relatively rare. The number of well-preserved specimens has diminished over time, making this coin a valuable piece for collectors interested in U.S. coinage from the early 19th century.
The 1836 Bust Dime in Fine condition shows clear signs of wear but retains much of its original design. On the obverse, Liberty’s features are still recognizable, but the details are softened due to circulation. The word "LIBERTY" is still legible, and the 13 stars surrounding Liberty are faint but visible. The date "1836" can be discerned, although it may be worn or slightly worn down in places. The reverse features the eagle, with the central design still discernible, though the feathers and the inscription may have worn down to a more rounded appearance. The coin’s overall appeal lies in its ability to retain key design elements while showing the natural effects of time and circulation. The Fine condition of the 1836 Bust Dime is not uncommon for coins of this era, as many of them saw extended use and were often handled by the public.
The condition of a coin like the 1836 Bust Dime plays a significant role in its value. As with many early U.S. coins, higher-quality examples are much more sought after by collectors. Coins in Fine condition, like this 1836 Bust Dime, represent a good balance between affordability and historical significance. While not as pristine as those found in higher grades like Very Fine or Extra Fine, coins in Fine condition still offer collectors a way to own a tangible piece of history. The 1836 Bust Dime in Fine condition remains accessible to collectors who appreciate the early history of U.S. coinage and wish to include this important design in their collection without paying the premium prices associated with higher-grade specimens.
It is important to note that the Bust Dime series, including the 1836 issue, marked a significant transition in the history of U.S. coinage. The Bust Dime design was replaced by the Seated Liberty Dime in 1837, signaling a change in both the style of the coin’s design and the general approach to U.S. coinage. The 1836 Bust Dime, therefore, represents the last year of the Capped Bust design and is part of a pivotal moment in the history of American coinage. This makes the 1836 Bust Dime especially desirable to numismatists and collectors of early U.S. coins, as it is not only a piece of art but also a tangible connection to the evolving nature of the U.S. Mint and the broader history of the United States during this period.
In conclusion, the 1836 Bust Dime in Fine condition is a highly collectible coin that holds historical, artistic, and numismatic value. Struck during a transitional period in U.S. coinage, the 1836 Bust Dime offers collectors a glimpse into the early days of the U.S. Mint and the nation's development as a young republic. Its design, featuring Liberty and the heraldic eagle, is a reflection of the ideals of the era. With a relatively low mintage and many coins from this period showing heavy use, surviving examples in Fine condition are rare and highly sought after. Collectors who are fortunate enough to acquire an 1836 Bust Dime can own a piece of early American history that continues to be celebrated in the numismatic community today.