1796 10C MS(PCGS#4461)

Spring 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

3029

等级

AU58

价格

114,658

详细说明

An attractively toned near-Mint example of this historic early U.S. Mint silver issue. Both sides are dressed in dominant steel-gray patina through which vivid undertones of powder blue, antique silver and pinkish-gold shine powerfully as the coin rotates under a light. The surfaces show little evidence of a hard life in circulation, although accuracy compels us to mention a light reverse scratch that curves through the eagle's breast and left wing. Regardless, one's eye will effortlessly focus on the bold to sharp detail throughout the design. Indeed, this piece is uncommonly well produced for the type with a well centered impression, complete border denticulation, and no signs of adjustment. Several prominent die breaks on both sides are as made and typical of this variety.<p>Despite being one of the original denominations authorized in 1792, the dime along with the quarter and quarter eagle was not introduced until four years later. The Draped Bust Small Eagle dime was produced for only two years and then only in modest quantities. Struck from seven known die marriages, the first 1796 dimes were delivered on January 18, 1796 eventually topping out at a published figure of 22,135 pieces in all (though 1796-dated dies may have continued to be used into March 1797). The JR-6 variety, as here, is also one of the more easily recognizable of the known die pairs thanks to the heavy prominent die crack that runs diagonally from the lower part of the 1 in the date through the 7, and ending at the top loop of the 9. The reverse die is also distinctive with a series of thin but readily apparent die cracks, the most obvious of which runs between the letters S and T in STATES through the top of the left wing and touches the eagle's neck. Despite being one of the more readily available varieties, it is still quite a scarce coin by any measure. Perhaps not more than 4% of 1796 dimes of any variety still remain in numismatic hands today, most of which are in the lowest end of the circulated grade spectrum. Above the VF level, the issue is progressively more challenging and is especially desirable at the top end of circulated preservation. Delightful in its eye appeal, this is a desirable NGC AU-58 specimen that will be welcome in any cabinet.