The Mercury Dime is one of the most beloved and collectible coins in American numismatics. Struck between 1916 and 1945, the coin features a winged Liberty head, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, and it’s often mistakenly referred to as the “Mercury Dime” due to Liberty’s winged cap, which resembles the Roman god Mercury. While many of these dimes are still in circulation or relatively easy to find, certain rare editions have become highly valuable to collectors. Here’s a rundown of the 14 most valuable Mercury Dimes, ranked from least to most expensive.
1921-D Mercury Dime
The 1921-D is one of the more valuable Mercury Dimes, primarily due to its low mintage of only 1.2 million coins. Though not as rare as some other dimes on this list, its scarcity and the fact that many were worn or damaged over time means that even coins in average condition can fetch higher prices. An average 1921-D Mercury Dime in good condition can sell for around $100, with well-preserved examples fetching $250 or more.
1921 Mercury Dime
Similar to the 1921-D, the 1921 Mercury Dime is valuable because of its low mintage of just over 1 million coins. It’s one of the rarer dates in the series, and collectors are willing to pay premium prices for well-preserved specimens. Expect to pay $100 to $150 for a coin in lower grades, while high-grade examples can reach up to $350.
1927-S Mercury Dime
With just over 1.9 million coins minted, the 1927-S Mercury Dime is a significant find for collectors. It’s especially desirable in higher grades, with well-maintained examples fetching upwards of $300. Most 1927-S dimes on the market are in lower grades, but when found in good condition, they can bring in impressive sums, with pristine coins reaching $600 or more.
1931-S Mercury Dime
The 1931-S is another key date in the Mercury Dime series, with only around 1.2 million dimes produced. It’s particularly valuable in higher grades. Lower-grade examples are still worth about $75 to $100, but mint-state versions can be valued at $400 or higher, depending on their condition.
1916-D Mercury Dime
Though the 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most famous dates in the series, it’s often overshadowed by rarer issues. Still, it’s considered one of the key dates for collectors. In good condition, a 1916-D coin can fetch around $200 to $300, with coins in uncirculated condition reaching values upwards of $1,000.
1936-D Mercury Dime
The 1936-D Mercury Dime has a higher mintage than many other valuable dimes, but its status as one of the more desirable dates has led to it being worth around $200 to $300 in circulated grades. Uncirculated examples can push prices to $500 or more.
1923-S Mercury Dime
The 1923-S is another scarce key date, with only about 3 million coins struck. It’s a relatively common date in circulated condition but becomes highly prized in higher grades. Prices for lower-grade coins start at around $80, while uncirculated specimens can fetch $500 to $600.
1927-D Mercury Dime
With a mintage of just 1.9 million, the 1927-D Mercury Dime is a sought-after coin in the series. Coins in good condition typically range from $200 to $300, while higher-grade specimens can reach $600 or more, making it one of the more valuable dimes from the series.
1916 Mercury Dime
The 1916 Mercury Dime is famous not only for its rarity but also for its iconic design. The 1916 coin features an unusually low mintage of only 22 million, making it a challenging find in higher grades. An average example will cost between $100 to $150, while high-grade versions can easily fetch upwards of $1,000.
Conclusion
The Mercury Dime series offers many valuable and highly collectible coins, ranging from rare mintages to intriguing varieties. Whether you are just starting your collection or looking for specific high-value specimens, these 14 coins highlight the most sought-after dimes in the series. Investing in well-preserved examples and rare varieties can be an exciting and rewarding pursuit for collectors of all levels.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime so valuable?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most valuable coins in the series due to its low mintage and its iconic design.
2. Why is the 1937-D 3-Legged Mercury Dime so rare?
The 1937-D 3-Legged Mercury Dime is a result of a die error, where one of the buffalo’s legs on the reverse side was unintentionally removed.
3. How can I tell if my Mercury Dime has full bands?
To have full bands, the lines of the bands on the reverse side of the coin, particularly around the olive branch, must be unbroken and clear.