1917-S Mercury Dime Value Guide

The 1917-S Mercury Dime is a prized early issue in the Winged Liberty Head series, notable for its 90% silver content and San Francisco origin. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, this coin represents the height of the early 20th-century American Renaissance in numismatic art.

What affects the value of 1917-S Mercury Dime?

• Overall strike quality, specifically the presence of 'Full Bands' on the reverse fasces.
• Surface preservation and the amount of wear on Liberty's hair and the wing feathers.
• Luster and the presence of original mint bloom versus heavy circulation or cleaning.
• Current market demand for early San Francisco mintages within the Mercury Dime series.

How to Identify 1917-S Mercury Dime?

• Locate the 'S' mint mark on the reverse side, positioned near the rim to the left of the fasces base.
• Verify the 1917 date on the obverse below the bust of Liberty wearing the winged Phrygian cap.
• Check for the designer's initials 'AW' located in the field to the right of the neck.
• Confirm the composition is 90% silver and 10% copper with a diameter of 17.9 millimeters.

History of 1917-S Mercury Dime

The Mercury Dime, officially known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, was minted from 1916 to 1945. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, its striking depiction of Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap led to its popular, though incorrect, association with the Roman god Mercury. The 'S' mint mark indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. This coin was part of a broader artistic movement in American coinage at the beginning of the 20th century, replacing older, less intricate designs.