1797 Draped Bust Dime. JR-1. Rarity-4. 16 Stars. MS-66 (PCGS).When we offered this memorable coin in 1990 we described it as:

“Frosty mint luster and a very sharp strike. The die crack from the rim behind the second star, through the first star, then into a massive break, terminates in the milling below the 16th star. Superb pale pink and steel with light iridescent overtones. Truly an incredible example of this rarity.”

The 16 stars represented the number of states which made up the Union at the time these coins were struck. Later in the year, the design was changed to 13 stars representing the original states. This 13 star arrangement continued for many years with very few exceptions across the various denominations.

Dimes of 1797, as a date, are significantly more difficult to find in high grades than are those dated 1796. As is the case with quarter dollars, examples of 1796 dimes were saved as souvenirs as the first year of issue. However, 1797 dimes were virtually completely overlooked in this regard.

To find even a nice MS-63 specimen of this variety would be an accomplishment. To have the opportunity to acquire a premium Gem MS-66 may well be a once in a lifetime experience.

Provenance: Estate of James A. Stack; our sale of the James A. Stack and Teich Family collections, January 1990, lot 3; the Knoxville Collection described in a catalog by Jay Parrino.

Rarities Auction Accompanying The D. Brent Pogue Collection

Stack’s Bowers Galleries will be hosting an exclusive Rarities Auction, held in conjunction with The D. Brent Pogue Collection. We will be accepting limited consignments of United States and world coins and paper money, featured in a spectacular catalog reserved for the rarest of the rare. Special terms will apply. If you are interested in participating in this unique opportunity, please call 949-748-4849 or email us at [email protected].

Alternatively, you can fill out our online consignment form. Click here to view the form.