1798/7 10C JR-1 MS(PCGS#38750)

November 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2044

Grade

AU55

Price

7,200

Lot Description

Uncommonly well defined for a circulated Draped Bust dime, this desirable Choice AU example also possesses pleasant toning in dominant soft pearl gray. Direct lighting calls forth not only ample remnants of frosty mint luster, but also playful undertones of iridescent gold, pink and powder blue. The strike is well centered and, while isolated softness is seen at the peripheries and in the centers, there is nothing unusual in this regard when it comes to the 1798 JR-1 die pairing. Smooth in hand with no sizeable marks, wispy hairlines are mentioned solely for accuracy and are not distracting to the unaided eye. There is certainly much to recommend this conditionally scarce coin to the advanced type collector.<p>On June 1, 1796, Tennessee was admitted to the Union, becoming the nation's 16th state. While the Mint tried to accommodate the additional star, the attempts were cumbersome. Such was the case of the Heraldic Eagle reverse die used for the 1797 quarter eagle where the 16 tiny stars were crammed into the space surrounding the eagle's head. Mint Director Elias Boudinot quickly abandoned the idea in 1797, and dies prepared afterward show only 13 stars. Die steel was at a premium in the early days of the Mint and Engraver Robert Scot repurposed this same die for the 1798 dime variety now known as JR-1. The obverse is of equal interest courtesy of the conspicuous overdate. An unusually small 8 punch was used in an attempt to cover the 7, but the size differential between the two numerals is so dramatic that the 7 is barely concealed at all. Fortunately for numismatists, JR-1 is also one of the most available of the four known die marriages of the 1798-dated Draped Bust dime, second only to the JR-4 Large 8 variety. The present example offers above average quality and strong eye appeal that are sure to catch the eye of discerning bidders.