1827 Capped Bust Dime Value: Business & Proof Strikes
1827 Capped Bust Dime values: $60 (G-4) to $120,750 (PR-67). Guide covers 14 JR varieties, rare proofs, S.S. Central America coins, and grading tips.
The 1827 Capped Bust Dime is worth $60 to $120,750 depending on condition and variety.
- Circulated (G-4 to AU-58): $60 ā $1,200
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-67): $1,325 ā $57,500
- Proof strikes (PR-63 to PR-67): $34,000 ā $120,750
- Rare varieties (JR-10, JR-14): Extreme premiums even in low grades
With 1,215,000 business strikes and just 12 Proofs produced, the 1827 dime is accessible in circulated grades but becomes a significant condition rarity above MS-64. Die variety collectors pursue 14 distinct JR marriages ranging from common to extremely rare.
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1827 Capped Bust Dime: Accessibility Meets Complexity
The 1827 Capped Bust Dime features John Reich's distinctive design with Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap
The 1827 Capped Bust Dime occupies a unique position in early American numismatics. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint from fourteen distinct die marriages, this Type 1 Large Size issue produced 1,215,000 business strikes, making it one of the most available dates for collectors entering the series. Common varieties in circulated grades provide an affordable gateway to early federal coinage, typically ranging from $60 in Good condition to several hundred dollars in Fine or Very Fine grades.
Yet beneath this accessibility lies a challenging field for specialists. The fourteen JR (John Reich) varieties span the rarity spectrum from R-1 (common) to R-5+ (extremely rare), with key issues like JR-10 commanding five-figure sums even in impaired grades. An estimated twelve original Proof strikes add another dimension of extreme rarity, with the finest known specimen having realized $120,750 at auction. This guide examines every facet of the 1827 dime market, from its $3.79 melt value to the six-figure prices achieved by its greatest rarities.
Identifying Your 1827 Capped Bust Dime
Philadelphia mint coins of this era carry no mint mark - the absence of a mark identifies the mint
All 1827 dimes were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and carry no mint mark. This absence itself confirms the coin's origin, as branch mints had not yet been established. The coin weighs 2.70 grams with a composition of 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, containing 0.0774 troy ounces of actual silver weight.
John Reich's obverse design features Liberty facing left, her hair bound in a cloth Phrygian cap inscribed with LIBERTY. Her portrait is surrounded by thirteen stars (seven left, six right) representing the original states, with the date 1827 positioned below the bust. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with spread wings, holding an olive branch and three arrows. A shield covers its breast, and an E PLURIBUS UNUM banner flows above. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA encircles the design, with the denomination 10 C. below the eagle.
These coins were struck using "open collar" technology, where the planchet was not confined within a tight collar during striking. This results in slight diameter variations (approximately 18.8 to 19.0 mm) and characteristically broad, low rims with unevenly defined denticles. The reeded edge was applied separately.
Business Strikes vs. Proofs: The vast majority of 1827 dimes are business strikes intended for circulation. Proof specimens are extremely rare (12 estimated original mintage, 7 believed to survive) and were struck on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies. Proofs exhibit mirror-like fields, sharp squared-off rims, and exceptionally crisp detail throughout the design. Confirmed Proofs are known for die marriages JR-8 and JR-10 only.
1827 Capped Bust Dime Values and Market Analysis
Market values for the 1827 dime are driven by three primary factors: grade, die variety, and strike type (business or Proof). Common varieties in circulated grades represent the most accessible entry point, while Gem Mint State examples and rare varieties command substantial premiums.
Business Strike Values
Progressive wear patterns from heavily circulated (G-4) through lightly worn (VF-20) to gem uncirculated (MS-65)
For common die varieties (JR-3, JR-4, JR-6, JR-12), market values follow the grade trajectory shown below. These prices represent NGC and PCGS price guide values as of October 2025:
| Grade | NGC Guide | PCGS Guide |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $60 | ~$75 |
| VG-8 | $75 | ~$150 |
| F-12 | $155 | ~$265 |
| VF-20 | $300 | ~$335 |
| EF-40 | $600 | ~$750 |
| AU-50 | $725 | ~$900 |
| AU-58 | $1,200 | ~$1,500 |
| MS-60 | $1,325 | ~$1,600 |
| MS-61 | $1,600 | ~$1,800 |
| MS-62 | $2,000 | ~$2,400 |
| MS-63 | $2,700 | ~$3,500 |
| MS-64 | $5,500 | ~$5,500 |
| MS-65 | $15,000 | ~$19,000 |
| MS-66 | $32,000 | ~$30,000 |
| MS-67 | $57,500 | ~$50,000+ |
The dramatic price increase from MS-64 to MS-65 represents a critical "survivorship cliff" in the market. PCGS estimates only 12 examples exist in MS-65 or better from a total population of approximately 1,100 certified specimens. This scarcity results from heavy circulation wear and the imperfect open collar striking technology of the 1820s, which made production of mark-free, well-struck coins exceptionally difficult. Type collectors and registry set builders compete intensely for these Gem examples, driving prices to levels nearly three times that of MS-64 specimens.
Notable auction records for common varieties include a PCGS MS-66+ that realized $40,800 (Heritage, August 2022). High-end MS-65 specimens with superior eye appeal typically sell in the $10,200 to $13,200 range.
Proof Strike Values
Proof 1827 dimes rank among the great rarities of 19th-century American coinage. With an estimated original mintage of just twelve pieces and a modern survival estimate of only seven specimens, these presentation strikes command extraordinary premiums. PCGS population data suggests only two examples qualify as Gem (PR-65 or better).
Proofs are known for die marriages JR-8 and JR-10, with JR-10 believed to be a Proof-only issue (no business strikes confirmed). These coins were struck on specially prepared polished planchets using meticulously polished dies, resulting in mirror-like fields contrasting with frosted design elements.
NGC price guide values provide speculative benchmarks: $34,000 (PR-63), $62,500 (PR-65), and $78,000 (PR-66). However, actual realized prices vary significantly based on market conditions and bidder participation. The all-time auction record stands at $120,750 (PR-67, Superior Galleries, 2008) for the famed Bareford Collection specimen. This same coin later sold for $86,250 (NGC PR-67* CAM, Goldbergs, 2013), illustrating the volatility of ultra-rare coin values during different economic cycles.
Key Die Variety Premiums
Certain JR varieties command substantial premiums over common date values:
JR-1 (1827/7 Overdate, R-3): This popular variety features a clearly repunched final 7 in the date. Recent auction results show MS-62 examples ranging from $3,360(Stack's Bowers, 2020) to $10,575 (ANA, 2012), with the variance reflecting differences in strike quality and eye appeal.
JR-10 (R-5+, Rarest Business Strike): This extreme rarity commands exceptional prices in any grade. A PCGS VF Details (Cleaned) specimen realized $12,650 (Stack's Bowers, 2012), while an MS-65 holds the variety record at $21,850 (Heritage, 2006).
JR-2 (Flat Top 1, R-5) and JR-14 (Flat Top 1, R-5+): Both very scarce varieties with the distinctive Flat Top 1 in the denomination carry significant premiums. JR-14, discovered after the 1984 JRCS reference publication and sharing the JR-1 overdate obverse, is exceedingly rare with no reliable public pricing available.
Grading the 1827 Capped Bust Dime
Key areas to examine for wear: Liberty's hair curls, shoulder clasp, and eagle's breast shield
Strike quality comparison: weak strikes show flatness despite no circulation wear; strong strikes show full design detail
Accurate grading of Capped Bust dimes requires distinguishing between incomplete strikes and circulation wear. The open collar technology and manual screw presses of the 1820s often failed to bring up full design detail, particularly on high relief areas. A coin may exhibit flatness yet retain full mint luster, qualifying for Mint State designation. Conversely, sharply struck coins showing even slight friction on high points are limited to About Uncirculated grades.
Critical Diagnostic Areas:
- Obverse: Liberty's hair curls around her ear and at the nape of her neck are the first points to show wear. The clasp securing her gown on the shoulder is another critical area. Star centers should retain crisp definition on higher grade examples.
- Reverse: The eagle's breast shield and immediately adjacent feathers are high points vulnerable to both weak strikes and wear. The arrow heads and olive leaves should show full detail in Mint State grades.
Grade Progression:
Good (G-4): Date and major design elements are barely discernible. Liberty's portrait is mostly worn smooth with LIBERTY partially visible in the cap band. The eagle on the reverse shows as a flat outline with little internal detail.
Very Fine (VF-20): Liberty's hair shows moderate detail with some curls visible around the ear. The cap band is fully legible. On the reverse, approximately half of the eagle's feathers show definition, and the shield has partial line separation.
Extremely Fine (EF-40): Most hair detail is present with light wear on the highest curls. All drapery lines and the shoulder clasp show clearly. The eagle exhibits three-quarters of its feather definition with clear shield lines.
About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): Only the slightest friction appears on Liberty's hair above the forehead and on the eagle's breast and wings. Original mint luster is present in protected areas. AU-58 coins retain 75% or more of their original luster.
Mint State (MS-60 to MS-67): No trace of wear appears anywhere on the coin, though contact marks are expected. MS-60 to MS-62 coins typically show multiple contact marks and possibly impaired luster from bag handling. MS-63 to MS-64 coins display fewer, less severe marks with good luster. MS-65 and higher examples are condition rarities with minimal contact marks, strong luster, and excellent strike quality. Strike strength becomes increasingly critical at Gem levels.
Toning Considerations: Original, undisturbed toning developed over two centuries is highly prized. Attractive stable toning in shades of gray, gold, blue, or russet can add significant premiums, particularly in Mint State grades. Unattractive dark or uneven toning may detract from value.
Die Varieties: The 14 JR Marriages of 1827
Key diagnostic: Pointed Top 1 (common) versus Flat Top 1 (rare JR-2 and JR-14 varieties only)
JR-1 variety: clearly visible repunched 7 below and to the left of the final 7 in date
The entire 1,215,000-piece mintage of 1827 business strike dimes was produced from fourteen distinct die marriages, cataloged in the John Reich (JR) system established by the John Reich Collectors Society. These varieties resulted from nine unique obverse dies paired with ten unique reverse dies. Attributing these marriages requires careful examination of date positioning, star placement, and diagnostic features like the style of the numeral 1 in the denomination "10 C."
| Variety | Rarity | Key Diagnostic | Market Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| JR-1 | R-3 | 1827/7 overdate; repunched final 7 | Significant |
| JR-2 | R-5 | Flat Top 1 in "10 C." | Significant |
| JR-3 | R-1 | Pointed Top 1; common | None |
| JR-4 | R-1 | Pointed Top 1; common | None |
| JR-5 | R-3 | Pointed Top 1; somewhat scarce | Moderate |
| JR-6 | R-2 | Pointed Top 1; star 6 high near dentil | Slight |
| JR-7 | R-3 | Pointed Top 1; somewhat scarce | Moderate |
| JR-8 | R-3 | Pointed Top 1; known in Proof | Moderate (Extreme for Proof) |
| JR-9 | R-4 | Pointed Top 1; very scarce | Significant |
| JR-10 | R-5+ | Pointed Top 1; Proof-only marriage | Extreme |
| JR-11 | R-2 | Sharply repunched final star; disconnected arrow shaft | Slight |
| JR-12 | R-1 | Pointed Top 1; very common | None |
| JR-13 | R-3 | Pointed Top 1; somewhat scarce | Moderate |
| JR-14 | R-5+ | Flat Top 1; shares JR-1 overdate obverse | Extreme |
The Pointed Top 1 vs. Flat Top 1 Distinction: The most readily visible diagnostic for grouping varieties is the style of the numeral 1 in the reverse denomination "10 C." Twelve of the fourteen marriages feature a Pointed Top 1, the standard punch used for this year. Only JR-2 and JR-14 exhibit a Flat Top 1, a holdover punch from earlier dates. This Flat Top style immediately signals a scarce to extremely rare variety.
Notable Variety Details:
JR-1 (1827/7 Overdate): The most popular and widely collected variety, the JR-1 clearly shows a repunched final 7 visible below and to the left of the primary digit. Early die states reveal additional repunching traces further left, leading some researchers to speculate it may represent an overdate of a different numeral. This variety's accessibility (R-3 rating) makes it a favorite among specialists. Recent auction results for MS-62 specimens range from $3,360 to $10,575 depending on strike quality and surfaces.
JR-10: The key rarity for business strikes, JR-10 is rated R-5+ and is considered by some authorities to be a Proof-only marriage. Even impaired examples command extraordinary premiumsāa PCGS VF Details (Cleaned) coin sold for $12,650 in 2012. An MS-65 specimen holds the variety record at $21,850.
JR-14: Discovered after the 1984 JRCS reference book publication, this extreme rarity pairs the distinctive Flat Top 1 reverse with the same overdate obverse die used for JR-1. Its R-5+ status places it among the rarest marriages for the date, though limited sales data makes valuation challenging.
Mint Errors and Special Pedigrees
While no major, widely cataloged error types are specific to the 1827 dime, examples exist with minting abnormalities common to early 19th-century production. Additionally, a small population of 1827 dimes carries a unique historical pedigree that substantially impacts value.
Die Cracks and Cuds: As dies aged under immense striking pressure, they developed cracks that appear as raised lines on finished coins. If a portion of the die broke away completely (typically near the rim), the resulting "cud" appears as an unstruck, raised blob. Minor die cracks add little value, but major cuds or multiple dramatic cracks can command premiums of $100 to $500 over standard examples in the same grade.
Clashed Dies: When obverse and reverse dies struck each other without a planchet between them, elements of each design impressed onto the opposing die. These impressions transferred faintly to subsequent coins. Faint clash marks are noted on the JR-6 die marriage and are generally considered a curiosity rather than a significant value factor.
Off-Center Strikes: Planchets that were not properly centered between the dies during striking result in designs that are partially off the planchet, leaving a blank crescent. Dramatic examples (10-50% off-center) with the date visible can add significant premiums ranging from $100 to $500 or more depending on the degree of displacement and visual appeal.
š S.S. Central America Shipwreck Pedigree
A historically significant group of 1827 dimes was recovered from the wreck of the S.S. Central America, a steamship that sank in a hurricane off the Carolina coast in September 1857. While not part of the ship's primary California Gold Rush treasure, these dimes were working currency used by passengers and crew.
Coins authenticated as being from the shipwreck are certified by PCGS with special labels denoting their "S.S. Central America" provenance. Many are encapsulated in oversized holders containing a pinch of gold dust recovered from the wreck. This unique historical connection creates extraordinary value premiums: an 1827 dime in About Good to Good condition, typically worth $40 to $60, commands $495 with the shipwreck pedigreeāa nearly tenfold increase driven entirely by the coin's story rather than its numismatic grade.
Authentication and Problem Detection
Authentication guide: cleaned coins show fine parallel scratches and dull, lifeless surfaces where luster was removed
Authenticating an 1827 Capped Bust Dime requires examination of die characteristics, physical specifications, and surface quality. Each of the fourteen JR varieties possesses a unique "fingerprint" of date and star positions, diagnostic die markers, and other features. Counterfeits from this period are most commonly cast rather than struck. Cast fakes exhibit soft, porous, or pimply surface textures and lack the sharp, crisp details of genuinely struck coins. The coin's weight (2.70 grams) and diameter (approximately 18.8-19.0 mm) should conform to official specifications.
For specimens valued at several hundred dollars or moreāparticularly rare varieties, high-grade examples, or Proofsāprofessional authentication and grading by PCGS or NGC is essential for market acceptance. Third-party certification provides assurance of authenticity, accurate grade assessment, and protective encapsulation.
Detecting Cleaned Coins: Harshly cleaned coins suffer severe market penalties. Cleaning signs include fine parallel scratches (hairlines) visible under magnification, typically running in one direction across the coin's surface. Chemically cleaned pieces may show a dull, lifeless appearance where original mint luster has been stripped away, or unusual color inconsistencies. While extremely rare varieties like JR-10 retain significant value even with a "Details - Cleaned" designation, common varieties cleaned lose 50% or more of their potential value. A cleaned coin in VF condition might sell for less than an original, problem-free Good example.
Physical Damage: Inspect carefully for rim bumps (from being dropped), deep scratches, graffiti, or holes drilled for jewelry use. Holed coins can serve as inexpensive "space fillers" in a collection but possess minimal numismatic value unless the coin is an extreme rarity. Coins with environmental damage, corrosion from PVC exposure (green residue), or "whizzing" (mechanical polishing to simulate luster) receive "Details" grades from certification services, significantly impacting value.
The most critical authentication step for high-value purchases is verifying die variety attribution. A coin attributed and certified as JR-10 commands five-figure sums, while a common variety in the same grade is worth perhaps a few hundred dollars. Die variety expertise requires careful study and comparison with established references. For major purchases, seek coins already authenticated and attributed by PCGS or NGC VarietyPlus designation.
Proper Storage and Preservation
Protecting the condition and value of an 1827 Capped Bust Dime requires appropriate storage and handling practices. Early silver coins are relatively stable compared to copper issues but must still be shielded from atmospheric contaminants and improper handling.
Storage Recommendations: Store coins in inert, archival-quality holders. Third-party grading service slabs (PCGS, NGC) provide excellent long-term protection with their sonically sealed acrylic encapsulation. For raw (uncertified) coins, use non-plasticized flips made from Mylar or other inert materials. Strictly avoid coin holders or flips containing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which leaches chemicals over time that cause a green, oily residue and permanent damage to the coin's surface. Store holders in a climate-controlled environment away from extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity.
Handling Practices: When handling an uncertified coin, always hold it by the edges only, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. The natural oils, acids, and moisture from skin contact can cause corrosion, toning, or permanent fingerprints. Work over a soft, clean surface to prevent damage if the coin is dropped. For certified coins in slabs, the holder may be handled normally, though care should still be taken to avoid dropping or striking the slab against hard surfaces.
Never Clean Your Coins: Even gentle cleaning attempts can cause irreversible damage. The fine hairlines created by wiping or rubbing, or the altered surface characteristics from chemical dips, are immediately apparent to experienced collectors and dramatically reduce value. If a coin requires conservation, consult a professional numismatic conservator affiliated with a major grading service. Original surfaces, even if toned or showing minor environmental effects, are always preferable to cleaned surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1827 Capped Bust Dime worth?
Value depends on three factors: condition (grade), die variety, and whether it's a business strike or Proof. Common varieties in heavily circulated grades (Good to Fine) are worth $60 to $300. Well-preserved examples in Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated grades range from $600 to $1,200. Mint State common varieties start at $1,325 (MS-60) and climb to $57,500 (MS-67). Rare varieties like JR-10 command five-figure premiums even in circulated grades, while Proof specimens range from $34,000 to over $120,000.
How do I identify the die variety of my 1827 dime?
The most readily visible diagnostic is the style of the numeral 1 in the reverse denomination "10 C." Twelve varieties feature a Pointed Top 1 (common style), while only JR-2 and JR-14 show a Flat Top 1 (rare). Beyond this, attribution requires examining date positioning, star placement, and specific die markers like the repunched 7 on JR-1, the repunched final star on JR-11, or the high position of star 6 on JR-6. The definitive reference is Early United States Dimes 1796-1837 by Davis et al. (1984). For valuable coins, PCGS and NGC offer VarietyPlus attribution services.
Should I get my 1827 dime professionally graded?
Professional grading is recommended if your coin appears to be in Extremely Fine or better condition, is a scarce die variety (JR-1, JR-2, JR-9, JR-10, JR-14), or if you suspect it might be a Proof. Certification costs typically range from $20 to $100+ depending on service level and turnaround time. For coins potentially worth several hundred dollars or more, the cost is justified by the authentication assurance, accurate grade determination, and enhanced marketability. Common varieties in low circulated grades (Good to Very Good) generally don't warrant the expense unless you plan to sell and want maximum buyer confidence.
What makes some 1827 dimes worth thousands while others are worth under $100?
Three factors create this value disparity: grade (condition), strike type, and die variety. The dramatic "MS-65 cliff" means Gem Mint State coins are worth ten times more than MS-64 examples due to extreme scarcityāonly an estimated 12 MS-65 or better coins exist from all varieties. Proof strikes with their 12-piece original mintage and 7-coin survival estimate are ultra-rarities worth $34,000+. Die variety rarity is equally criticalācommon R-1 varieties (JR-3, JR-4, JR-12) in VF grade might sell for $300, while the R-5+ JR-10 in the same grade commands over $12,000.
How do I care for my silver 1827 Capped Bust Dime?
Store in inert holders: third-party grading slabs (PCGS/NGC) provide ideal protection, or use non-PVC flips for raw coins. Keep in a stable environment away from temperature extremes and humidity. Handle only by edges, never touching the surfaces. Never attempt cleaningāeven gentle wiping creates hairlines that destroy value. If conservation is needed, consult a professional conservator affiliated with a major grading service. Original surfaces, even with natural toning, are always preferable to cleaned surfaces.
What is the melt value of an 1827 Capped Bust Dime?
With 0.0774 troy ounces of actual silver content (89.24% silver composition) and using a representative silver spot price of $49.00 per troy ounce, the melt value calculates to approximately $3.79. This provides a theoretical price floor, though even the lowest collectible grades command $60 to $75āa numismatic premium of 15 to 20 times the bullion value. For any 1827 dime in recognizable condition, numismatic value far exceeds intrinsic metal content.
Are there any 1827 Capped Bust Dime errors worth significant money?
While no major error types are specific to 1827, coins exist with general minting abnormalities. Minor die cracks add little value, but dramatic die cuds or multiple major cracks can command $100 to $500 premiums. Off-center strikes showing 10-50% displacement with the date visible may also bring similar premiums. The most significant "special issue" is the S.S. Central America shipwreck pedigreeāthese coins, recovered from an 1857 shipwreck, command nearly ten times normal value even in low grades due to their historical connection to the famous "Ship of Gold" disaster.
What is the rarest 1827 Capped Bust Dime variety?
For business strikes, JR-10 (R-5+) holds the distinction as the rarest, with some experts considering it a Proof-only die marriage. It commands extreme premiums: a VF Details (Cleaned) example sold for $12,650, while an MS-65 realized $21,850. The recently discovered JR-14 (R-5+) is equally rare but has limited sales history. For overall rarity, Proof strikes of any variety are the ultimate prize, with an original mintage of just 12 pieces and an estimated 7 survivors, commanding prices from $34,000 to over $120,000.
Pricing Methodology and Sources
Values presented in this guide are synthesized from multiple authoritative sources current as of October 2025. Primary sources include the NGC Coin Explorer price guide, PCGS CoinFacts price guide, and recent auction results from major numismatic firms including Stack's Bowers Galleries, Heritage Auctions, and GreatCollections. Die variety attributions follow the JR numbering system established by the John Reich Collectors Society in Early United States Dimes 1796-1837 by David J. Davis, et al. (1984).
Price guides represent retail values for coins with problem-free surfaces and typical strike quality for the issue. Actual realized prices vary based on strike quality, eye appeal, toning characteristics, and market conditions at time of sale. Gem Mint State coins (MS-65+) and rare varieties are particularly sensitive to these factors. The market for ultra-rare items like Proof 1827 dimes is event-driven, with values established by competitive bidding between a small number of advanced collectors rather than by stable, predictable pricing.
Coin values fluctuate with changes in precious metal prices, overall numismatic market conditions, and collector demand. This guide provides a comprehensive snapshot of the current market but should not be considered a guarantee of sale or purchase prices. For significant transactions, consult current auction results and consult with professional numismatic dealers or certified appraisers.
