Numismatic

1825 Capped Bust Dime Fine

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In the early decades of United States coinage, the ten-cent denomination carried a distinctive look that reflected the young nation's evolving identity. The 1825 Capped Bust Dime, struck in 89.24 percent fine silver, represents this formative era of American money. Containing 0.0775 troy ounces of precious metal, this piece was minted at the Philadelphia facility during a time when each coin was individually crafted. The obverse of the dime displays a left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair covered by a traditional Phrygian cap inscribed with her name. Thirteen stars encircle the bust, representing the original colonies, with the date 1825 positioned at the bottom. This classic depiction was the work of designer John Reich, who brought a European-influenced aesthetic to the early coinage of the United States. On the reverse, a heraldic eagle clutches an olive branch of peace in one talon and three arrows of defense in the other. A shield is placed over the eagle's chest, and the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is displayed on a scroll above. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination, abbreviated as 10 C., encircle the central design, completing a powerful symbol of early American sovereignty.