1829 Capped Bust Dime, Sm Size 10C NGC MS66

A landmark example of early American silver, this 1829 Capped Bust Dime (Small 10C) from the Philadelphia Mint is certified NGC MS66—an elite Gem with exceptional eye appeal for the series. The coveted Small 10C reverse variety, recognized in the Red Book, displays the reduced-size “10 C.” denomination, a popular and actively collected subtype within the Capped Bust dime set. Struck during the reduced-diameter, reeded-edge era introduced in 1828, this piece offers sharp detail in Liberty’s hair and cap, bold star centers, and a crisply rendered heraldic eagle—hallmarks of a premium strike. Surfaces are beautifully preserved at the MS66 level, with radiant mint luster and only the faintest ticks visible under magnification. For the advanced registry competitor or type specialist, it is an opportunity rarely seen at this lofty grade. Key details: Date and Mint: 1829, Philadelphia (no mintmark) Type/Variety: Capped Bust Dime, Small 10C (Red Book-listed variety) Certification and Grade: NGC MS66 (Gem Mint State) Population: NGC reports only 6 in MS66, with just 1 graded higher Designer: John Reich (Capped Bust design; modified hubs in the late 1820s by William Kneass) Specifications: Approx. 18.8 mm; 2.70 g; .8924 silver, .1076 copper; reeded edge Obverse/Reverse: Liberty facing left with Phrygian cap; eagle with shield, arrows, and olive branch; denomination “10 C.” Why collectors value it: Early U.S. dime from the formative years of the Mint’s technological transition to reeded edges and reduced diameters Desirable Small 10C variety with strong demand across date, type, and variety sets Scarce at Gem level with razor-thin census—true registry-set potential A superb blend of rarity, condition, and historical importance, this 1829 Small 10C in NGC MS66 stands as an understated prize for the connoisseur and an impressive centerpiece for any serious U.S. type or Bust dime collection.