Price Guide for 1809 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: $7.00 – $6,469.00Uncirculated: $2,185.00 – $60,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $234.50 – $3,727.09
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 – $7,750.00Uncirculated: $8,000.00 – $90,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $192.00 – $3,995.00Uncirculated: $3,290.00 – $13,920.00
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eBayCirculated: $319.15 – $1,200.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 – $7,750.00Uncirculated: $8,000.00 – $90,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1809 Dime
The 1809 Dime, also known as the Draped Bust Dime, represents a transitional year in early American coinage. It was the final year of the Draped Bust design for dimes, which had been in use since 1796. This coin is significant as it marks the end of an era in U.S. coinage design and precedes the introduction of the Capped Bust design in 1809.
| 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 with flowing hair, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Small eagle with spread wings perched on a cloud, surrounded by a wreath, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1809 Dime due to its age and rarity. Well-preserved examples with minimal wear, strong strikes, and original luster are highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are exceedingly rare and command significant premiums.
The quality of the strike can vary, affecting the coin’s overall appeal. Toning can also play a role in desirability, with coins displaying attractive, natural toning often being more valuable than those with no toning or unattractive toning.
Mintage: 51,065
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
The 1809 Dime’s value is influenced by several factors beyond condition:
1. Historical significance: As the last year of the Draped Bust design, it holds special appeal for collectors of early American coinage.
2. Low mintage: With only 51,065 pieces produced, it’s naturally scarce.
3. Survival rate: Many coins from this era were melted or lost, making surviving specimens even rarer.
4. Type set demand: As a one-year type coin, it’s essential for collectors assembling type sets of early dimes.
5. Die varieties: While no major varieties are widely recognized, subtle die differences can add interest for specialized collectors.
