Price Guide for 1797 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: $85.00 – $18,212.50Uncirculated: $8,050.00 – $199,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,100.00 – $10,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,500.00 – $32,500.00Uncirculated: $35,000.00 – $275,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $25.00 – $38,187.50Uncirculated: $13,200.00 – $402,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,999.00 – $5,360.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,500.00 – $50,000.00Uncirculated: $65,000.00 – $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $881.00 – $24,675.00Uncirculated: $28,200.00 – $41,125.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,250.00 – $32,500.00Uncirculated: $35,000.00 – $275,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $840.00 – $30,550.00Uncirculated: $78,000.00 – $82,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $699.99 – $1,583.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,500.00 – $50,000.00Uncirculated: $60,000.00 – $225,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1797 Dime
The 1797 Dime, also known as the Draped Bust, Small Eagle Dime, is one of the earliest dimes minted in the United States. It was part of the first series of dimes produced by the U.S. Mint, which began in 1796. This coin represents a crucial period in American numismatic history, as it was minted during the early years of the nation and the establishment of its coinage system.
| Weight | 4.13 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 20.5 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 an eagle surrounded by a wreath, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1797 Dime, as very few examples survive in high grades. Coins in Fine condition or better are highly sought after by collectors. The strike quality can vary significantly, with many examples showing weakness in certain areas due to the primitive minting technology of the time.
Coins with original surfaces and natural toning are particularly desirable. Any examples with minimal wear on Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s features command significant premiums.
Mintage: 25,261
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in high grades (AU or better)
Varieties Errors: 13 Stars and 16 Stars obverse varieties
Market Demand: High, due to historical importance and scarcity
The 13 Stars and 16 Stars varieties add an extra layer of collectibility to the 1797 Dime. The 16 Stars variety is generally rarer and more valuable. Die states and die cracks are also of interest to specialized collectors.
As one of the earliest dimes minted, the 1797 issue holds significant historical importance, which adds to its overall value. The low mintage and high attrition rate over the past two centuries make this a key date in the Draped Bust Dime series, ensuring strong demand from collectors of early American coinage.
