Mercury Dimes, also called Winged Liberty Head Dimes, are popular among collectors for their beauty and history. They were minted between 1916 and 1945. The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the rarest and most valuable, making
it a key date that many collectors seek. In this article, we’ll discuss the history of these coins, what makes the 1916-D special, and other important dates collectors should know about.
History of Mercury Dimes
Mercury Dimes were designed by Adolph A. Weinman in 1916. The coin replaced the Barber Dime and features Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing free thinking.
The reverse side of the coin shows a fasces (a bundle of rods with an axe) and an olive branch, which stand for unity and peace.
People often mistake the image of Liberty for the Roman god Mercury, which is how the coin got its nickname.
The 1916-D Mercury Dime
- Mint Mark: “D” for the Denver Mint.
- Mintage: Only 264,000 coins were made.
- Value: In good condition, the 1916-D Mercury Dime can be worth thousands of dollars, and in mint condition, it can be worth tens of thousands.
- Significance: This dime is the rarest in the Mercury Dime series and is highly valued by collectors due to its low mintage and being the first year of the series.
Other Key Dates to Collect
While the 1916-D is the most famous, there are other dates worth collecting:
1921 and 1921-D:
These coins were minted in low numbers after World War I, with the 1921 from Philadelphia and 1921-D from Denver. Both are valuable in all conditions.
1931-D:
A rare coin from the Great Depression, with only 1,260,000 minted. It holds significant value, especially in better condition.
1942/1 and 1942/1-D Overdates:
These coins show a “1” under the “2” due to a minting error, making them highly sought after by collectors.
1945 Micro S:
A rare variety with a smaller “S” mint mark, making it a special find for collectors.
Tips for Collecting Mercury Dimes
- Condition Matters: Coins in better condition, especially those with clear details like Full Bands (FB) on the reverse, are more valuable.
- Authenticate Key Dates: The 1916-D and other rare coins are often counterfeited, so it’s important to have them authenticated by a reputable grading service.
- Build a Set: Collecting a full set of Mercury Dimes, including key dates and rare varieties, can be a fun and rewarding challenge.
- Eye Appeal: Coins that look great, with good shine and minimal wear, are always worth more.
Mercury Dimes are a popular series for both new and seasoned collectors. Their artistic design and historical value make them a fascinating part of American coin collecting. Whether you’re looking for the rare 1916-D or other key dates,
starting a collection of these dimes can be an exciting journey. Focus on quality, rarity, and the story behind each coin to make your collection special.
Why are Mercury Dimes called that?
They are called Mercury Dimes because Liberty on the coin’s obverse is often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury.
What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime special?
It’s the rarest coin in the series, with only 264,000 minted, making it highly valuable.
What is an overdate coin?
An overdate happens when a number is mistakenly struck over another. For example, the 1942/1 shows a “1” under the “2.”
How can I tell if my Mercury Dime is real?
It’s important to have valuable coins, like the 1916-D, authenticated by a trusted grading service to ensure they’re real.
What is the value of a Mercury Dime?
Depending on its condition and rarity, a Mercury Dime can be worth anywhere from a few dollars to thousands, especially for key dates like the 1916-D.
