Price Guide for 1804 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: $67.50 – $164,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $4,500.00 – $200,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $10.50 – $632,500.00Uncirculated: $367,188.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6,500.00 – $300,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3,120.00 – $66,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $4,500.00 – $200,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $5,280.00 – $252,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5,000.00 – $300,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1804 Dime
The 1804 Draped Bust Dime is a highly significant coin in American numismatics. It represents one of the earliest dime issues of the United States Mint and is part of the Draped Bust series, which was first introduced in 1796. The year 1804 is particularly notable as it marks the last year of the Small Eagle reverse design for dimes before the introduction of the Heraldic Eagle reverse in 1805.
| Weight | 2.70 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 18.8 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| 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 perched on a cloud, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1804 Dime has a dramatic impact on its value. Given its age and low mintage, finding examples in high grades is extremely challenging. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are highly sought after by collectors. The presence of original luster and absence of significant wear on Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers are crucial factors in determining grade and value.
Toning can also play a significant role in an 1804 Dime’s desirability. Coins with attractive, natural toning are often more valuable than those with no toning or with artificial coloration. The quality of the strike is another important factor, as many early coins suffer from weak strikes due to primitive minting technology.
Mintage: 8,265
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF, with only a handful known in Mint State
Varieties Errors: 13 Stars and 14 Stars varieties
Market Demand: High, due to its historical significance and rarity
The 1804 Dime is known for two major varieties: the 13 Stars and 14 Stars obverse. The 14 Stars variety is considerably rarer and commands a significant premium. Both varieties are highly collectible, but the 14 Stars is particularly sought after by advanced collectors.
The historical significance of the 1804 Dime adds to its value. As the last year of the Small Eagle reverse, it represents a transitional period in early U.S. coinage. This historical importance, combined with its low mintage and survival rate, makes the 1804 Dime a key date in the series and a prized possession for collectors of early American coinage.
Provenance can also affect value, with coins having a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or appearance in significant auctions potentially commanding higher prices. Additionally, coins that have been certified and graded by reputable third-party grading services typically sell for higher prices due to the assurance of authenticity and condition they provide.
