Mercury dimes, minted from 1916 to 1945, hold a special place in U.S. coin history. Known officially as Winged Liberty Head dimes, their design features Lady Liberty with a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. These coins have become collector favorites, particularly due to their intricate design, historical significance, and rarity.
Some Mercury dimes are valued at staggering amounts, with certain editions reaching up to $500,000. Let’s look into the rarest and most valuable Mercury dimes and what makes them such prized collectibles.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history. Produced in Denver, only 264,000 were minted, making it the rarest of the series. Its limited production and high demand among collectors give it a significant value, particularly in uncirculated condition. This coin can fetch between $15,000 and $500,000 depending on its grade.
1921 Mercury Dime
Minted during a period of economic recession, the 1921 Mercury Dime saw a very low production run. Its rarity, combined with its historical context, makes it highly desirable. High-grade versions of this coin are valued at $3,000 to $30,000.
1921-D Mercury Dime
Produced in Denver, the 1921-D Mercury Dime had a mintage of fewer than 1.2 million coins. This low production makes it a prized collectible. Well-preserved specimens can command prices ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.
1931-S Mercury Dime
The 1931-S Mercury Dime is a rare piece minted during the Great Depression. With its low mintage, it is a valuable coin, particularly in higher grades. Collectors often pay between $1,000 and $10,000 for this coin, depending on its condition.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
This overdate error occurred when the “1” in 1941 was mistakenly stamped over with a “2,” creating the famous 1942/1 Mercury Dime. Produced in Philadelphia, this error coin is highly sought after by collectors and can fetch between $4,000 and $30,000.
1942-D 42 Over 41 Mercury Dime
Similar to the 1942/1 error, the 1942-D Overdate Dime was minted in Denver and features overlapping numerals in the date. Its rarity and the uniqueness of the error make it one of the most valuable Mercury dimes, valued at $10,000 to $30,000.
1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime
This dime is notable for its unusually small “S” mint mark, making it a unique variety in the series. Collectors prize the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime for its distinctiveness, with values ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on its grade.
1918/7-D Mercury Dime
An overdate error where “8” is stamped over “7,” the 1918/7-D Mercury Dime is a well-known rarity. This coin was minted in Denver and commands a premium in the market. Depending on its condition, it can be worth between $10,000 and $30,000.
Here’s a summary of these rare Mercury dimes, highlighting their unique features and estimated values:
| Coin Name | Year | Distinct Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Low mintage, Denver mint | $15,000 – $500,000 |
| 1921 Mercury Dime | 1921 | Low mintage, rare | $3,000 – $30,000 |
| 1921-D Mercury Dime | 1921 | Denver mint, low production | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| 1931-S Mercury Dime | 1931 | Low mintage, Great Depression era | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | 1942 | Overdate error, Philadelphia | $4,000 – $30,000 |
| 1945-S Micro S | 1945 | Unique small “S” mint mark | $1,500 – $10,000 |
| 1918/7-D Mercury Dime | 1918 | Overdate error, Denver | $10,000 – $30,000 |
These rare Mercury dimes demonstrate how minting errors, low production runs, and historical significance can elevate the value of a coin. For collectors, they are more than just currency—they are pieces of history, and they’re worth hunting for.
If you stumble upon one of these rare dimes in an old coin collection or loose change, you could be holding a treasure worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars.
FAQs
Which Mercury dime is the rarest?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the rarest, worth up to $500,000.
What makes the 1942/1 dime valuable?
Its overdate error makes it a sought-after collectible.
Why is the 1945-S Micro S dime unique?
It features a smaller-than-usual “S” mint mark.
How much is the 1918/7-D Mercury dime worth?
It can be worth between $10,000 and $30,000.
Are 1921 Mercury dimes valuable?
Yes, they are rare and valued at $3,000 to $30,000.
