Price Guide for 1805 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: $10.25 – $6,613.00Uncirculated: $27.50 – $149,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $160.25 – $6,950.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $500.00 – $8,000.00Uncirculated: $8,500.00 – $150,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $32.50 – $33,000.00Uncirculated: $5,060.00 – $29,900.00
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eBayCirculated: $49.00 – $4,306.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 – $9,000.00Uncirculated: $10,000.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $100.00 – $12,337.50Uncirculated: $2,040.00 – $188,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $201.50 – $2,550.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $600.00 – $7,500.00Uncirculated: $8,500.00 – $150,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $180.00 – $3,360.00Uncirculated: $6,462.50 – $8,518.75
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eBayCirculated: $225.00 – $675.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 – $9,000.00Uncirculated: $10,000.00 – $50,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1805 Dime
The 1805 Dime is part of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle series, which was minted from 1796 to 1807. This coin represents an important early period in American coinage, being one of the first denominations authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792. The year 1805 saw a significant increase in dime production compared to previous years, reflecting the growing need for smaller denominations in commerce.
| 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 an eagle perched on a cloud, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1805 Dime’s value. Due to its age and extensive circulation, high-grade examples are extremely rare and command significant premiums. Coins in VF or better condition are highly sought after by collectors.
The strike quality can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas. Strong, well-struck examples with good detail retention are more valuable. Original surface quality, including natural toning and luster (if present), can greatly enhance the coin’s desirability and value.
Mintage: 120,780
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF (Very Fine), with AU (About Uncirculated) and Mint State examples being highly prized
Varieties Errors: 4 Berries and 5 Berries reverse varieties
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Variety identification is important for the 1805 Dime. The 4 Berries and 5 Berries reverse varieties can affect value, with the 5 Berries variety being scarcer and more valuable. Die states and die cracks are also of interest to specialists and can impact value.
Historical significance plays a role in the coin’s value. As an early American coin from the Draped Bust series, it holds special appeal for collectors of early US coinage. The overall scarcity of early dimes, combined with the coin’s age and limited survival rate in high grades, contributes to its strong market demand and value.
