Numismatic

1833 Capped Bust Dime Fine

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In 1833, the United States Mint in Philadelphia produced a ten-cent coin that captured the spirit of a young nation. This silver dime, composed of 89.24 percent silver, showcases the Capped Bust design, a classic motif from the pre-1933 era of American coinage. The coin survives today in circulated Fine condition, showing the honest wear of a piece that once active in daily commerce. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair flowing beneath a draped Phrygian cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Thirteen stars encircle her image, representing the original colonies, with the year 1833 anchored at the bottom. This design was originally conceived by the engraver John Reich, bringing a European-influenced neoclassical aesthetic to American pockets. On the reverse, an American eagle stands with wings spread, a protective shield draped across its chest. In its talons, the eagle grasps both an olive branch of peace and three arrows of defense, symbolizing the dual nature of the young republic. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is banner-draped above the eagle, while the denomination is marked at the bottom as 10 C.