Numismatic

1821 Capped Bust Dime Large Date VF

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Struck in the early decades of the United States, this 1821 Capped Bust dime offers an intriguing glimpse into the nation's early coinage. Minted in Philadelphia, the ten-cent piece is composed of 89.24 percent silver, containing approximately 0.0775 troy ounces of the precious metal. This specimen survives in Very Fine condition, preserving the details of its classic nineteenth-century artistry. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, designed by John Reich. She wears a traditional Phrygian cap, with her wavy hair flowing down her back. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, representing the original colonies, while the word LIBERTY is inscribed on her cap band and the date 1821 is positioned below. On the reverse, an American eagle stands with a shield draped across its chest. The bird holds an olive branch of peace in one claw and a bundle of arrows in the other, symbolizing the young nation's readiness for defense. The legend on this side includes the denomination indicated by 10 C, alongside the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM and the surrounding inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.