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1804 14 Star Reverse

Dimes · Draped Bust Dimes · 1796–1807
Key date
Weight2.7 g
Diameter19 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 8,265 Combined mintage for all 1804 varieties
EdgeReeded
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
DesignerRobert Scot
Collector's Key IDCK-1667

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About this coinHistory

The 1804 14 Star Reverse dime is a documented engraving error variety where the reverse die was prepared with 14 stars between the eagle's head and the arc of clouds, instead of the standard 13 representing the original colonies. Combined 1804 dime mintage was only 8,265 pieces total, the lowest of any 1804-dated US dime issue, divided between the 13-star and 14-star reverse varieties. The 14-star reverse is the rarer of the two by a meaningful margin. Population reports from Professional Coin Grading Service and Numismatic Guaranty Company confirm just a small number of certified survivors at any grade level, with mint-state examples essentially absent from active markets and most appearances drawing competitive bidding nationwide.

Robert Scot's draped Liberty obverse, based on Gilbert Stuart's painting of Anne Willing Bingham, pairs with the Heraldic Eagle reverse with the 14-star engraving error. Specifications follow the series standard: 89.24% silver, 2.70 grams, near 19 mm diameter, and reeded edge. Authentication on this rarity is non-negotiable. Verify weight precisely, examine edge reeding for evenness, and count the stars between the eagle's head and the arc of clouds carefully. The 14-star arrangement should be clearly visible under modest magnification, and the configuration of the extra star is documented in published references including the John Reich (JR) die marriage chart. Any suspected example without third-party Professional Coin Grading Service or Numismatic Guaranty Company certification should be approached with great caution and skepticism.

The 14 Star Reverse 1804 is among the most desirable Draped Bust dime varieties, sought by both date collectors needing 1804 representation and advanced variety specialists chasing reverse engraving anomalies. Heritage Auctions and Stack's Bowers have produced exceptional results for certified examples in every grade. Population reports from PCGS and NGC give the best read on conditional rarity, and certified examples consistently outperform raw equivalents in the resale market. For broader context on early Mint engraving practices, see the Draped Bust Dime series history.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G)
VG-8 Very Good (VG)
F-12 Fine (F)
VF-20 Very Fine (VF)
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF)
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU)
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dimes were minted?
8,265 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1804 varieties).
What is a 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime made of?
89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper, weighing 2.7 g.
What is the melt value of a 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime a key date?
Yes — the 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime is considered a key date in the Draped Bust Dimes series and commands a strong premium.