The 1916-D Mercury Dime: In the world of rare coins, the 1916-D Mercury Dime holds a legendary status. This iconic coin, part of the beloved Mercury Dime series, is celebrated for its historical significance, stunning design, and exceptional rarity. When combined with the coveted “Full Band” designation, the 1916-D Mercury Dime becomes a numismatic treasure that commands attention—and impressive prices. With recent sales reaching into the tens of thousands of dollars, this dime is a crown jewel for collectors.
Table of Contents
1916-D Mercury Dime Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer | Adolph A. Weinman |
| Mint | Denver (“D” mint mark) |
| Obverse Design | Liberty with a winged cap (symbolizing freedom of thought) |
| Reverse Design | Fasces (strength) and olive branch (peace) |
| Historical Significance | First year of the Mercury Dime series, minted during WWI |
| Mintage | 264,000 (one of the lowest in the series) |
| Rarity | Extremely rare, especially with Full Bands (FB) designation |
| Recent Auction Price | $35,000+ for high-grade examples with Full Bands |
| Collector Appeal | Highly sought-after key date in the Mercury Dime series |
| Value Factors | Condition, Full Bands detail, sharpness, and original luster |
A Coin of Artistic and Historical Importance
The Mercury Dime, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, was first introduced in 1916 to replace the Barber Dime. The obverse features a youthful Liberty wearing a winged cap, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury, symbolizing freedom of thought. The reverse depicts a fasces (a bundle of rods with an axe) surrounded by an olive branch, representing strength and peace. The design is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in U.S. coinage history.
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The 1916-D Mercury Dime was struck at the Denver Mint, as indicated by the “D” mint mark on the reverse. This coin holds a special place in numismatic history as the first year of issue for the series and one of the lowest-mintage dimes of the 20th century. Its production coincided with a time of global change, as World War I raged in Europe and the United States prepared for its eventual involvement.
The Rarity of the 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the rarest and most sought-after coins in the series, with a mintage of just 264,000 pieces. This low production, combined with heavy circulation and melting over the years, has left very few surviving examples. The coin’s rarity is further enhanced by the “Full Band” designation, which refers to the sharpness and completeness of the horizontal bands on the fasces on the reverse. Coins with Full Bands (FB) are exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors.
The 1916-D Mercury Dime’s scarcity and historical significance make it a key date in the Mercury Dime series. Collectors value this coin not only for its rarity but also for its connection to a transformative era in American history.
A Collector’s Ultimate Prize
For numismatists, the 1916-D Mercury Dime with Full Bands is the ultimate prize. Its stunning design, historical importance, and extreme rarity make it a standout in any collection. High-grade examples with Full Bands can fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction, with prices often exceeding $35,000 or more depending on condition and provenance.
The value of a 1916-D Mercury Dime varies significantly based on its condition and the presence of Full Bands. Circulated examples without Full Bands are still valuable but far more affordable than their mint state counterparts. However, uncirculated specimens with Full Bands are exceptionally rare and can command astronomical prices. Coins with sharp details, original luster, and well-defined bands are especially coveted.
A Window into History
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is more than just a rare coin; it is a tangible link to a pivotal moment in American history. Its production marked the beginning of a new era in U.S. coinage, as the nation prepared for the challenges of the 20th century. For collectors, this dime offers a chance to own a piece of that legacy, a reminder of the artistry and history embedded in every coin.
A Legacy of Beauty and Rarity
The 1916-D Mercury Dime remains a beloved and iconic coin, celebrated for its historical significance, elegant design, and enduring appeal. Its story is one of craftsmanship, scarcity, and the enduring fascination with rare and historic coins. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, the 1916-D Mercury Dime offers a compelling connection to the past and a reminder of the artistry and history embedded in every coin.
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As collectors continue to seek out high-quality examples, the 1916-D Mercury Dime stands as a testament to the enduring allure of American coinage. It is a true gem in the tapestry of numismatics, a coin that continues to inspire fascination and admiration. With its Full Band designation and recent sales reaching impressive heights, this rare dime has solidified its place as one of the most coveted treasures in the world of coin collecting.
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