Mercury dimes, minted between 1916 and 1945, are highly sought after by coin collectors due to their stunning design and rarity. Some rare varieties and specific dates have skyrocketed in value over the years, with prices reaching as high as $500,000. These dimes are a true testament to the rich history of U.S. coinage and remain a prized addition to any collection.
1916-D Mercury Dime
This is one of the most sought-after Mercury dimes due to its low mintage. With only 264,000 pieces minted, finding one in excellent condition is a rare treasure.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 overdate is a highly coveted error coin. This variety features a “1” peeking out beneath the “2” in the date, making it a fascinating find for collectors.
1942/1-D Mercury Dime
Similar to the Philadelphia-minted version, this overdate from the Denver mint also features the “1” under the “2,” with even fewer examples known, making it exceptionally rare.
1921 Mercury Dime
With a low mintage of just over 1 million coins, this dime from the Denver mint is rare and highly valued, especially in uncirculated condition.
1921-D Mercury Dime
This counterpart to the 1921 dime is equally rare, with collectors often seeking both versions to complete their sets.
1931-D Mercury Dime
Though minted during the Great Depression, fewer people saved coins at the time, leading to this dime’s rarity today.
1931-S Mercury Dime
The San Francisco Mint produced a limited number of these dimes, making them a valuable find for collectors.
1945-S Mercury Dime Micro S
This variety features a small “S” mint mark, distinguishing it from other 1945 dimes. Its uniqueness adds to its collectible value.
Full Bands Mercury Dimes
Dimes with complete, distinct lines on the fasces on the reverse are known as “Full Bands.” These are incredibly valuable due to their detailed design and scarcity.
| Coin Name | Mint Mark | Year of Issue | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916-D | D | 1916 | Up to $500,000 |
| 1942/1 | None | 1942 | Up to $125,000 |
| 1942/1-D | D | 1942 | Up to $150,000 |
| 1921 | None | 1921 | Up to $50,000 |
| 1921-D | D | 1921 | Up to $75,000 |
| 1931-D | D | 1931 | Up to $25,000 |
| 1931-S | S | 1931 | Up to $30,000 |
| 1945-S Micro S | S | 1945 | Up to $10,000 |
| Full Bands Varieties | Various | Various | Up to $150,000 |
Mercury dimes continue to fascinate collectors and history enthusiasts alike. With unique features like overdates, mint marks, and Full Bands varieties, these coins encapsulate the artistry and history of their era. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, adding one of these rare Mercury dimes to your collection could be a rewarding investment.
