The 10 Most Valuable Mercury Dimes in Circulation: The Mercury dime, officially known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, was minted by the United States from 1916 to 1945. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, this coin remains one of the most beloved by collectors due to its intricate design and historical significance. While many Mercury dimes are still available in circulation, some rare editions and key dates can be worth thousands of dollars. Below is a list of the ten most valuable Mercury dimes that collectors and numismatists seek today.
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1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury dime is the most sought-after and valuable coin of the series. With only 264,000 minted, this dime has an incredibly low supply. In well-preserved condition, it can fetch upwards of $15,000 or more, making it a prize for collectors.
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1921 Mercury Dime
The 1921 Mercury dime had a relatively low mintage of just over 1 million coins. Due to its rarity and demand among collectors, a high-grade specimen can be worth around $2,500 or more.
1921-D Mercury Dime
Similar to the 1921 Philadelphia issue, the 1921-D Mercury dime was struck in small numbers (1.2 million). As a result, this Denver-minted coin is highly sought after, with high-quality specimens reaching $3,000 or more in value.
1942/1 Overdate Mercury Dime
One of the most famous errors in the Mercury dime series, the 1942/1 overdate occurred when a 1941 die was mistakenly repunched with a 1942 date. This rare error can command over $10,000 in excellent condition.
1942/1-D Overdate Mercury Dime
A similar error to the 1942/1, the Denver-minted version of this overdate is even rarer. Collectors are willing to pay upwards of $12,000 for a well-preserved specimen, making it one of the most valuable Mercury dimes in circulation.
1931-D Mercury Dime
The 1931-D Mercury dime was minted during the Great Depression, leading to a low production number of only 1.2 million coins. Its scarcity makes it valuable, with some specimens fetching over $1,500.
1926-S Mercury Dime
The 1926-S Mercury dime is another low-mintage coin, with just 1.5 million produced. High-grade examples are rare and can be worth upwards of $4,500 to collectors.
1919-D Mercury Dime
Due to circulation wear and a relatively low mintage, finding a high-grade 1919-D Mercury dime is difficult. Well-preserved examples can fetch over $2,000 at auction.
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1931-S Mercury Dime
The 1931-S Mercury dime had a limited production run of just 866,000 coins. Its scarcity and demand make it a valuable coin, often selling for over $1,200 in excellent condition.
1925-S Mercury Dime
The 1925-S Mercury dime had a mintage of only 1.8 million coins. High-grade examples of this coin are rare and can reach values of $2,500 or more among collectors.
Table – 10 Most Valuable Mercury Dimes in Circulation
| Coin | Mint | Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | Denver | $15,000+ | Extremely low mintage (264,000 coins) |
| 1921 Mercury Dime | Philadelphia | $2,500+ | Low mintage (1 million coins) |
| 1921-D Mercury Dime | Denver | $3,000+ | Low mintage (1.2 million coins) |
| 1942/1 Overdate Mercury Dime | Philadelphia | $10,000+ | Famous error with repunched date (1941 over 1942) |
| 1942/1-D Overdate Mercury Dime | Denver | $12,000+ | Rare Denver version of the overdate error |
| 1931-D Mercury Dime | Denver | $1,500+ | Low mintage (1.2 million coins) |
| 1926-S Mercury Dime | San Francisco | $4,500+ | Low mintage (1.5 million coins) |
| 1919-D Mercury Dime | Denver | $2,000+ | Difficult to find in high grade due to circulation wear |
| 1931-S Mercury Dime | San Francisco | $1,200+ | Limited production (866,000 coins) |
| 1925-S Mercury Dime | San Francisco | $2,500+ | Low mintage (1.8 million coins) |
Mercury dimes remain an essential part of American numismatic history, and some of the rarest ones continue to appreciate in value. Whether due to low mintage, errors, or historical significance, these ten Mercury dimes stand out as the most valuable in circulation. Collectors and investors alike seek these coins, making them a great addition to any collection. If you happen to come across one, you may be holding onto a small fortune.
FAQs:
What is the rarest Mercury dime?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime, with only 264,000 minted.
Why are 1942/1 dimes valuable?
They feature a rare overdate error (1941 over 1942).
How can I identify a key date Mercury dime?
Look for low mintage years (e.g., 1916-D, 1921, 1921-D).
Are Mercury dimes made of silver?
Yes, they are 90% silver and 10% copper.
Where can I sell rare Mercury dimes?
Auction houses, coin dealers, and online marketplaces.
