Drescription: Authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792 as a 1/10th dollar coin, the US dime first circulated in 1796. Originally composed of silver, it evolved from the Draped Bust (1796–1807) and Capped Bust (1809–1837) to the Seated Liberty (1837–1891), Barber, Mercury (1916–1945), and finally the Roosevelt dime (1946–present). Since 1965, the 17.91 mm coin has been clad in cupronickel, replacing 90% silver.

Key Historical Dime Designs:

Draped/Capped Bust (1796–1837): Featured Lady Liberty, with early versions having a reeded edge to prevent silver shaving.

Seated Liberty (1837–1891): Reduced in size but increased to 90% silver to standardize weight.

Barber (1892–1916): Designed by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, featuring a Roman-style bust of Liberty.

Mercury/Winged Liberty Head (1916–1945): Known for its design of Liberty wearing a winged cap (often mistaken for Mercury) and a reverse featuring a fasces.

Roosevelt (1946–Present): Introduced to honor FDR for his role in founding the March of Dimes, designed by John R. Sinnock.

Composition Change (1965): The Coinage Act of 1965 removed silver from circulating dimes, replacing it with a copper-nickel clad composition.