Numismatic

1821 Capped Bust Dime Large Date Good

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The early coinage of the United States offers a tangible window into the young republic's developing identity. Among these early treasures is the 1821 Capped Bust dime, a silver coin containing 0.0775 troy ounces of actual silver. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this ten cent piece represents a classic era of American numismatic design, created by engraver John Reich. On the obverse, a left-facing bust of Liberty is shown wearing a draped Phrygian cap, a traditional symbol of freedom, with her long hair flowing down past her shoulder. This central figure is framed by a semi-circle of thirteen stars, which pay tribute to the original thirteen colonies that formed the nation. The year 1821 is boldly struck at the bottom of the design. The reverse side presents a powerful national motif, featuring an eagle with a patriotic shield draped across its chest. In its talons, the eagle firmly grasps an olive branch, representing a desire for peace, alongside a bundle of arrows, signaling a readiness for defense. This combination of symbolic elements captures the spirit of a growing nation navigating the global stage in the early nineteenth century.