Mercury Dimes Value Guide

The Mercury Dime, officially titled the Winged Liberty Head, is a cornerstone of American numismatics minted between 1916 and 1945. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, its iconic imagery of Liberty in a winged Phrygian cap is celebrated for its artistic beauty and high 90% silver composition.

What Is Mercury Dimes Worth?

The typical price range for Mercury Dimes is $25 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of 'Full Bands' on the reverse fasces significantly increases the value for high-grade specimens.
• Key dates and mint marks, such as the 1916-D, command much higher prices than the standard $25-$40 range.
• Overall strike quality and the level of wear on Liberty's hair and the wing feathers.
• The current market spot price of silver, given the coin's 90% precious metal content.

How to Identify Mercury Dimes?

• Look for the designer's initials 'AW' located on the obverse to the right of Liberty's neck.
• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition, which gives the coin its distinct metallic ring and weight.
• Examine the reverse for the fasces and olive branch motif, ensuring the 'United States of America' lettering is crisp.
• Check the mint mark (D for Denver or S for San Francisco) located on the reverse, just to the left of the base of the fasces.

History of Mercury Dimes

The Mercury Dime, officially known as the 'Winged Liberty Head' dime, was minted from 1916 to 1945. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, it features a young Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, mistakenly interpreted by the public as the Roman god Mercury. The reverse depicts a fasces, symbolizing unity and strength, and an olive branch, signifying peace. These dimes are highly sought after by collectors for their historical significance and 90% silver content.