In a truly remarkable discovery, a 1796 Draped Bust Dime, long forgotten and tucked away inside an old drawer handle, has taken the world of numismatics by storm. What seemed like an ordinary cleaning session turned into a history-defining moment when this rare coin surfaced, ultimately shattering auction records.
This incredible story proves that treasures don’t always lie buried deep underground — sometimes, they’re hiding in plain sight.
A Coin Lost in Time — Until Now
The historic dime was unexpectedly found by a homeowner during a renovation project. While inspecting a creaky antique cabinet, the individual noticed something rattling inside the handle of one drawer. After unscrewing the handle, they were stunned to find a small silver coin wedged tightly inside.
To the untrained eye, it looked like an old, worn-out dime. But upon closer inspection and expert evaluation, it turned out to be a 1796 Draped Bust Dime, one of the first-ever dimes struck by the United States Mint.
What Makes the 1796 Draped Bust Dime So Valuable?
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime is not just any vintage coin. It represents an important chapter in American history. Introduced shortly after the establishment of the U.S. Mint, these dimes featured Lady Liberty’s portrait draped in classical style, hence the name.
What makes the 1796 edition especially rare:
- It was the first year dimes were officially minted.
- Less than 25,000 coins were produced.
- Many of them have been lost, damaged, or melted over the centuries.
- Only a few high-grade specimens remain in circulation.
The coin found in the drawer was surprisingly well-preserved, possibly due to its odd hiding place that protected it from corrosion, exposure, and wear.
A Record-Breaking Auction
After authentication and grading, the coin was sent to auction, where collectors were quick to recognize its rarity. In a competitive bidding war, the dime fetched an astonishing seven-figure price, making it one of the most expensive U.S. dimes ever sold.
Though the exact amount hasn’t been disclosed by the seller, experts estimate the price exceeded $1.5 million, given its historical significance, condition, and uniqueness of discovery.
The auction house described it as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” and the buyer, a well-known collector, reportedly added the coin to a private museum collection.
From Forgotten Junk to Million-Dollar Treasure
This discovery highlights how some of history’s rarest artifacts can lie hidden in the most unexpected places. The family that owned the cabinet had no idea a multimillion-dollar coin was sitting inside for decades.
It’s also a powerful reminder to rethink what we consider ‘junk’ or ‘old stuff’. That drawer handle, if ignored, would have remained a mystery forever.
Numismatic World Reacts
Coin collectors and history buffs are buzzing about the find. Social media is flooded with pictures and comments about the 1796 dime’s journey from obscurity to fame.
Experts also note that this story will likely spark a new wave of coin-hunting, especially among people with vintage furniture, boxes, or heirlooms. The U.S. Mint and numismatic societies have even encouraged the public to explore attic finds and family possessions more closely.
Final Thoughts
The incredible rediscovery of the 1796 Draped Bust Dime is more than just a collector’s dream — it’s a powerful story about history, luck, and hidden value. In an age where everything is going digital, it’s fascinating to see a 229-year-old coin steal headlines and captivate imaginations.
So next time you clean out a drawer or handle an old piece of furniture, take a closer look. You never know — the next million-dollar find could be right under your nose.