1805 10C Draped Bust Dime, 4 Berries variety, PCGS MS64 -Iconic, Classic Design

We at AUCM are proud to offer an Iconic, Historic piece: 1805 Draped Bust dime, 4 Berries variety, graded PCGS MS64. Finding this issue in such a wonderful state of preservation is not easy. Therefore the collector of mint state early Federal Period numismatic art should take a close look at this listing. The discriminating numismatist knows that a piece such as this is to be held onto and treasured. This is the kind of specimen that is found among the most important collections.

The Draped Bust motif of Liberty was created by the noted portrait artist Gilbert Stuart, possibly at the insistence of George Washington himself. Stuart's model is said to have been Ann Willing Bingham, a Philadelphia socialite considered among the most beautiful women of her time. Stuart's rendering was transferred to plaster by artist John Eckstein, followed by coinage dies executed by mint chief engraver Robert Scot. We are told that Stuart felt the execution of his image into a coin was comparable to one performed by a hangman, resulting in the murdering of the artistry of his work. That is why he disowned his connection with the coin's design and most people today assume it was completely the work of Scot.

The reverse features a heraldic eagle, an adaptation by Robert Scot of the eagle featured on the diplomatic medal crafted by French medalist Augustin Dupre. 13 stars are also found on the reverse of the heraldic quarter, hovering above the eagle. Puffy clouds appear above the stars, while UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and 10 C. are engraved around the rim. A shield is located upon the eagle's breast, while a ribbon in its beak declares E PLURIBUS UNUM. Warlike arrows are grasped firmly in his right talon, while the olive branch of peace is held firmly in his left.