Diagnostic Controls & Presets First US Dime Struck
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
Struck between January and October 1796 at the Philadelphia Mint (total mintage of just 22,135 coins).
The US Mint added a star for each newly admitted state until recognizing that stars would soon crowd out the portrait!
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Finest known certified example of America's first dime; dazzling prooflike mirrored fields and golden patina.
Rare Tennessee statehood variety displaying crisp 16-star border and sharp Small Eagle feathers.
Complete drapery lines and bold 1796 date with authentic two-century gray cabinet toning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 1796 Draped Bust Dime?
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime was the very first ten-cent coin coined by the United States federal government. Struck in Philadelphia in 1796, it was designed by Chief Engraver Robert Scot based on a drawing of socialite Ann Willing Bingham by famous portrait artist Gilbert Stuart.
Why does the 1796 dime have no denomination on it?
Early US silver coins (including the 1796 dime and quarter) carried no statement of value ('10C' or 'ONE DIME'). In the 18th century, coins traded strictly based on their physical size, weight, and silver content.
What is the difference between the 15-Star and 16-Star varieties?
Early dies (JR-1 through JR-5) have 15 stars around Miss Liberty, representing the 15 states of the Union. After Tennessee was admitted as the 16th state on June 1, 1796, die sinkers punched a 16th star into obverse die JR-6. The 16-star variety is significantly rarer.
What is on the reverse of the 1796 dime?
The reverse features Robert Scot's delicate 'Small Eagle' perched on a cloud inside an open agricultural palm and olive wreath, surrounded by the legend 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.
How many 1796 Dimes were minted?
Exactly 22,135 coins were delivered in 1796 across all six known die pairings (JR-1 through JR-6).
How many 1796 Dimes survive today?
Numismatic researchers estimate that fewer than 1,000 to 1,200 specimens survive today in all grades combined, with only a small handful in uncirculated condition.
How much is a 1796 Draped Bust Dime worth?
Even in heavily worn Good-4 condition, an authentic 1796 dime is worth $3,800 to $5,500. Fine to Very Fine specimens command $12,000 to $22,000. About Uncirculated examples bring $38,000 to $65,000, while top Gem Mint State specimens sell for $150,000 to over $215,000.