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 resemble the Roman god Mercury, hence the popular name "Mercury Dime." The inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST" is to the left, and the year "1943" is below Liberty's neck. The coin shows a green/blue toning, possibly due to environmental factors.

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 during World War II, a time when silver coins were still in circulation, playing a role in American commerce and war efforts. Its high silver content makes it a popular choice for collectors and silver stackers.

Estimated Value

The estimated value for a 1943 Mercury Dime is largely dependent on its condition and mint mark (which is not visible in the image). For a circulated coin in average condition, it might be worth a few dollars more than its silver melt value. For coins with full bands (on the reverse, not visible here) and in uncirculated condition, the value can range from $10 to $50+. The toning present could either enhance or detract from its value depending on collector preference and whether it's natural or artificial. (As of late 2023, silver melt value is around $1.70-$1.80).

Care Instructions

Handle the coin by its edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin, which can cause damage or uneven toning over time. Store it in a cool, dry place in an inert holder (e.g., Mylar flip, archival-safe slab, or non-PVC coin holder) to protect it from environmental damage and further toning. Do not clean the coin, as cleaning can significantly decrease its numismatic value.

Created At: 2025-11-18T02:25:46.430243