1883 10C Hawaii Silver Dime PCGS PR63

The proof Umi Keneta, or Hawaiian dime, is a formidable rarity, especially given its status as a single-year type, and is seldom offered for sale. This and the other Hawaiian coins were designed and engraved by Charles Barber. All bear the likeness of King David Kalakaua I.  The strike on this piece is razor sharp and it displays attractive golden brown toning on both sides. PCGS has graded 6 examples as PR63 with 7 finer.

The business strike 1883 Hawaiian dimes (250,000) were struck at the San Francisco Mint, a practical option given its closer proximity to the Hawaiian Kingdom. However, the proof issue was minted in Philadelphia, and in vastly fewer numbers. The proof 1883 Hawaii dime has a mintage of only 26 pieces. Research indicates that six Hawaiian proof sets were produced in 1883, with 20 more struck the following year. All 1883 proofs were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and are single-year types.  

King David Kalakaua I of Hawaii. His image graces the obverse of Hawaiian coinage dated 1883. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.