Mercury Dime (Winged Liberty Head Dime)

Brief Description

The obverse features a profile portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, mistakenly thought to be the Roman god Mercury, hence the popular name. The coin shown has a visible date "1943" and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST". The reverse typically features a fasces (a bundle of rods with an axe) signifying unity and strength, and an olive branch symbolizing peace.

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 U.S. coin designs. The 1943 issue was produced during World War II, a period when silver was a critical material, and its mintage reflects the economic conditions and demands of the war effort. As it contains 90% silver, it is a popular coin among collectors and investors for its precious metal content.

Estimated Value

For a 1943 Mercury Dime, the estimated value can range from approximately $2.00 to $50.00+ depending on its condition (wear, luster, presence of full split bands on the fasces on the reverse, which indicates a sharp strike) and any potential mint marks (e.g., 'S' for San Francisco, 'D' for Denver, or none for Philadelphia). Given the visible wear and toning, it's likely on the lower end of the spectrum for circulated coins, but the toning could be considered attractive by some collectors. Professional grading would be necessary for a precise valuation.

Care Instructions

To preserve its condition, handle the coin by its edges with soft cotton gloves. Store it in a cool, dry place in an inert, PVC-free holder (e.g., Mylar flips, non-PVC coin slabs, or albums designed for coinage). Avoid cleaning the coin, as cleaning can permanently damage its surface and significantly reduce its numismatic value. The natural toning visible on the coin is often desirable to collectors.

Created At: 2025-11-18T02:23:32.696888