Price Guide for 1811 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: $8.25 – $3,675.00Uncirculated: $30.00 – $24,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $138.51 – $1,700.66
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $4,750.00Uncirculated: $5,000.00 – $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $109.00 – $3,360.00Uncirculated: $3,760.00 – $18,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $95.01 – $1,749.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $4,750.00Uncirculated: $5,000.00 – $60,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1811 Dime
The 1811 Dime, also known as the Capped Bust Dime, is part of the early American coinage. This design was introduced in 1809, replacing the Draped Bust design. The Capped Bust Dime was the first dime to be struck on a fully automated coin press, marking a significant technological advancement in U.S. coinage production.
1811 was a notable year in American history, as it saw the first steamboat voyage down the Mississippi River and was just before the outbreak of the War of 1812. These dimes would have been in circulation during this pivotal period in early American history.
| Weight | 2.70 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 18.8 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Capped Bust design, featuring Liberty facing left with flowing hair and a cap, designed by John Reich |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, olive branch, and arrows, designed by John Reich |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1811 Dime, as it significantly impacts value and collectibility. Due to its age and limited mintage, finding high-grade examples is extremely challenging. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are highly sought after by collectors.
The strike quality can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas. Well-struck examples with full details command a premium. Original luster is extremely rare but highly prized when present. Natural toning, if attractive, can enhance the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 65,180
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF (Very Fine), with only a handful known in Mint State condition
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Historical significance plays a major role in the 1811 Dime’s value. As an early American coin minted just before the War of 1812, it holds special interest for collectors of early U.S. coinage.
The low mintage of only 65,180 pieces makes this a key date in the Capped Bust Dime series. Survival rate is another critical factor, as many of these coins were lost to wear or melting over the years, making well-preserved examples even rarer.
Provenance can add significant value, especially if the coin can be traced to a famous collection or has been featured in important auctions. Additionally, coins with exceptional eye appeal, regardless of technical grade, often command strong premiums in the marketplace.
