The Mercury dime is known for its beauty and historical value, making it a favorite among coin collectors. Produced by the United States Mint from 1916 to 1945, these ten-cent pieces represent a unique piece of American history.
The design, created by sculptor Adolph Weinman, won a national competition and became an icon. Often mistaken for a Roman god, the coin features a young Liberty with a winged cap, giving it the popular nickname, “Mercury Dime.” Here are eight of the rarest Mercury dimes that are especially valuable and sought after by collectors.
1. 1931 D Mercury Dime
- Rarity: Scarce
- Mintage: 1,260,000
- Mint Location: Denver
The 1931 D Mercury dime is known for its relatively low production numbers. Even though it had the fourth lowest mintage in the series, many collectors preserved these coins, making them easier to find in good condition. Circulated versions can be valued between $4 and $85, but uncirculated coins are much rarer, reaching prices around $875.
Interesting Fact: This was the last Mercury dime minted before the Great Depression paused production until 1934.
2. 1926 S Mercury Dime
- Rarity: Scarce
- Mintage: 1,520,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
Nicknamed the “Route 66 Mercury Dime,” the 1926 S coin is highly desirable due to its limited release. This coin was produced the same year as the iconic Route 66, adding historical significance. In pristine conditions, this dime is extremely rare and commands a high value.
Interesting Fact: After President Franklin D. Roosevelt passed in 1945, the US Treasury decided to feature him on the dime in honor of his support for the “March of Dimes” charity.
3. 1925 D Mercury Dime
- Rarity: Rare
- Mintage: 5,117,000
- Mint Location: Denver
The 1925 D Mercury dime is distinct due to its weak strike, especially on the lettering around the edges. This coin is rare across all grades, and even worn versions are hard to come by. In mint condition, this dime can sell for a significant amount.
Interesting Fact: When this coin was first released, some collectors criticized its design, feeling the artist’s monogram was too prominent.
4. 1919 D Mercury Dime
- Rarity: Rare
- Mintage: 9,939,000
- Mint Location: Denver
While not too rare in circulated form, uncirculated 1919 D dimes are highly valued, especially those with clear “Full Bands” details. Due to its rarity in pristine condition, these coins are worth thousands of dollars to collectors.
Interesting Fact: Many believe the face on the Mercury dime is based on a sculpture of Elsie Stevens, wife of poet Wallace Stevens, though this remains unconfirmed.
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5. 1921 and 1921 D Mercury Dime
- Rarity: Very rare
- Mintage: 1,230,000 (Philadelphia) and 1,080,000 (Denver)
The low mintage of the 1921 and 1921 D dimes makes them highly sought after, as fewer coins were produced due to a mild recession. With only a few examples in good condition, these coins are among the most valuable in the Mercury dime series.
Interesting Fact: Coin collecting by date and mint mark didn’t become popular until the 1930s, meaning many 1921 dimes were lost or worn out.
6. 1945 S Micro S Full Band
- Rarity: Extremely rare
- Mint Location: San Francisco
This unique variation, the 1945 S Micro S Mercury dime, features a smaller “S” mintmark than usual. Collectors find it appealing, especially those in uncirculated condition with the Full Bands detail.
Interesting Fact: Over 33% of Mercury dimes submitted to grading agencies have the tiny “S,” and about 12% of those have the Full Bands.
7. 1916 D Mercury Dime
- Rarity: Extremely rare
- Mintage: 264,000
- Mint Location: Denver
This coin is the most sought-after Mercury dime due to its incredibly low mintage. The Denver Mint halted production soon after minting, making it a key date in the series. In circulated condition, this coin can reach $12,650, while uncirculated versions can exceed $39,000.
Interesting Fact: Production of the Mercury dime was delayed in Denver because priority was given to quarter production in 1916.
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8. 1942/1 Mercury Dime Full Band
- Rarity: Extremely rare
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
Known as the rarest Mercury dime, the 1942/1 error coin shows a unique “overdate” effect where the “1” from 1941 can be seen next to the “2” in 1942. This coin is a treasure in any collector’s eyes, with few uncirculated examples left.
Interesting Fact: This error occurred because the mint mistakenly used two different date hubs during production, creating a visible overlap in the date.
These rare Mercury dimes are treasured pieces for collectors, each with its unique history and distinctive qualities. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, adding one of these rare coins to your collection can make for a valuable and fascinating piece of American history.
Editorial Note: This article was created through automated technology, with all details verified and polished by our editorial expert.