Price Guide for 1796 Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $8.00 – $34,800.00Uncirculated: $25.00 – $372,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $450.00 – $14,315.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,000.00 – $27,500.00Uncirculated: $30,000.00 – $1,250,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $752.00 – $21,000.00Uncirculated: $25,850.00 – $881,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $3,395.75 – $4,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,000.00 – $27,500.00Uncirculated: $30,000.00 – $1,100,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $910.63 – $19,388.00Uncirculated: $17,400.00 – $141,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3,250.00 – $15,000.00Uncirculated: $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,680.00 – $13,800.00Uncirculated: $21,600.00 – $43,200.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $9,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,080.00 – $21,150.00Uncirculated: $24,725.00 – $299,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $5,555.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $4,000.00 – $11,000.00Uncirculated: $325,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,440.00 – $14,100.00Uncirculated: $32,200.00 – $42,300.00
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eBayCirculated: $2,288.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6,500.00 – $35,000.00Uncirculated: $75,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $489.00 – $16,100.00Uncirculated: $23,000.00 – $793,125.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,000.00 – $27,500.00Uncirculated: $30,000.00 – $75,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1796 Dime
The 1796 Dime holds a significant place in American numismatic history as it marks the first year of dime production in the United States. This coin represents the beginning of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle design, which would only be produced for two years (1796-1797) before being replaced by the Heraldic Eagle reverse in 1798.
As one of the first silver coins minted under the new decimal system established by the Coinage Act of 1792, the 1796 Dime played a crucial role in the early American economy and remains a highly sought-after coin by collectors and historians alike.
| Weight | 2.70 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 20.8 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust design featuring Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Small Eagle design with a wreath, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1796 Dime has a profound impact on its value. Due to its age and limited mintage, finding high-grade specimens is extremely challenging. Coins in circulated condition (Good to Very Fine) are valuable, but those in About Uncirculated to Mint State grades can command significant premiums.
Strike quality is particularly important for this issue, as many examples show weakness in certain areas due to the primitive minting technology of the time. Coins with strong, well-defined details are highly prized. The presence of original luster can greatly enhance value, especially in higher grades.
Toning can also play a role in desirability, with coins displaying attractive, natural toning often commanding a premium among collectors.
Mintage: 22,135
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above, with only a handful known to exist in such high grades
Varieties Errors: 1796 JR-1, 1796 JR-2, 1796 JR-3, 1796 JR-4 (John Reich varieties)
Market Demand: High, due to its historical significance and rarity
Several factors can influence the value of a 1796 Dime beyond its condition:
1. Die variety: The John Reich (JR) varieties are of interest to specialized collectors, with some being rarer than others.
2. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or appearance in famous auctions can command higher prices.
3. Overall eye appeal: Subjective factors such as strike quality, luster, and toning can significantly impact a coin’s desirability and value.
4. Historical significance: As the first year of dime production, these coins hold special appeal for collectors of early American coinage.
5. Certification: Coins graded and authenticated by reputable third-party grading services often sell for higher prices due to the assurance they provide to buyers.
