Mercury Dime (Winged Liberty Head Dime)

Brief Description

The coin appears to be a Mercury Dime. The obverse features a Winged Liberty Head, often mistaken for the Roman God Mercury due to the winged cap, facing left. The reverse typically shows a fasces (a bundle of rods with an axe projecting) entwined with an olive branch.

Historical Significance

The Mercury Dime was minted from 1916 to 1945. It was designed by Adolph A. Weinman and is considered one of the most beautiful coin designs in U.S. history. Its creation was part of a broader effort to beautify American coinage at the beginning of the 20th century. The fasces on the reverse symbolizes unity and strength, with the olive branch representing peace, a significant message during the periods of World War I and World War II in which it circulated.

Estimated Value

The value of a Mercury Dime can vary significantly based on its specific year, mint mark, condition (grade), and any key dates or varieties. Common dates in circulated condition might be worth a few dollars (primarily for their silver content), while rare dates or high-grade examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. An exact value cannot be provided without knowing the specific year, mint mark, and condition visible from the image.

Care Instructions

Handle the coin by its edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin, which can damage the surface over time. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in an inert holder like Mylar flips or non-PVC pages, to protect it from environmental damage and physical scratches. Do not clean the coin, as this can severely decrease its numismatic value.

Created At: 2025-08-04T04:13:16.534771