1931 Mercury Dime Value Guide

The 1931 Mercury Dime is a highly sought-after silver coin designed by Adolph A. Weinman, featuring Lady Liberty in a winged Phrygian cap. Produced during the height of the Great Depression, this specific year saw significantly lower mintage numbers, making it a key date for numismatists building a complete set.

What Is 1931 Mercury Dime Worth?

The typical price range for 1931 Mercury Dime is $8 - $12 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of 'Full Split Bands' on the reverse fasces significantly increases the value beyond the $8.00-$12.00 range.
• Mint marks from Denver (D) or San Francisco (S) typically command a premium over the Philadelphia mintage due to lower production totals.
• Overall surface preservation and the absence of heavy wear on Liberty's hair and the wing feathers.
• The current market price of silver bullion, as the coin contains 0.07234 troy ounces of pure silver.

How to Identify 1931 Mercury Dime?

• Verify the 1931 date on the obverse and look for the 'S' or 'D' mint mark near the bottom of the reverse, though the Philadelphia issue has no mark.
• Check for the designer's initials 'AW' located to the right of Liberty's neck.
• Confirm the composition is 90% silver and 10% copper, which gives the coin its distinct metallic ring and luster.
• Examine the reverse for the fasces and olive branch motif, ensuring the vertical lines on the bundle are distinct.

History of 1931 Mercury Dime

Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the Winged Liberty Head dime earned the nickname Mercury Dime due to Liberty's resemblance to the Roman god. The 1931 issue is notable as it was produced during the height of the Great Depression when mintages were significantly lowered, making it a scarcer date for collectors.