The Mercury dime, officially known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, was minted from 1916 to 1945 and is a favorite among coin collectors. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the coin features a depiction of Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought.
Mercury dimes are made of 90% silver, giving them intrinsic metal value, but certain dates and mint marks—such as the 1916-D—can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Whether you’re collecting for history, silver content, or rarity, understanding Mercury dime values is essential for spotting hidden treasures.
Mercury Dime Value
The value of a Mercury dime can vary depending on its condition, rarity, date, mint mark, and overall demand in the market. Generally, a common date Mercury dime in circulated condition can be worth anywhere from $1 to $3. However, if the coin is in uncirculated condition or is a rare date, its value can be over $1,500.
The key dates to look out for when determining the value of a Mercury dime include the 1916-D, 1921, 1921-D, and 1942/41 overdate varieties.
What Are Mercury Dimes?
The Mercury Dime, also known as the Winged Liberty Head Dime, is a 10-cent coin that was issued by the United States Mint between 1916 and 1945. The coin was designed by German-American sculptor Adolph A. Weinman and features a profile of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap on the obverse and a fasces with an olive branch on the reverse.
A fasces is a bundle of wooden rods tied together with an ax head attached. It's an ancient symbol from the Etruscan culture that was adopted by the Roman Republic thousands of years ago. It represents power and authority.
How to Tell if Your Mercury Dimes Are Valuable
In coin collecting, the worth of a coin is often heavily dependent on its rarity. This is true for the value of Mercury dimes. But how do you know what a rare Mercury Dime looks like? A few special characteristics that you can spot pretty easily will tell you if a coin is rare.
Note the condition of the coin. Because they were first circulated more than 100 years ago and left circulation in 1945, Mercury Dimes in impeccable condition can be worth a few hundred dollars or more. Generally, the earlier the coin was in circulation, along with being in great condition, the more it will be worth. Even the highest grades of Mercury Dimes minted in the 40s and late 30s (without errors or other valuable marks) are only worth a few dollars.
The 1916 D Mercury Dime is often considered the most valuable of its kind because only a few hundred thousand were ever minted. Here are a few more key dates to look out for: 1921 D, 1926 S, and 1942/41 (has an overstamp mint error).
If you suspect your Mercury Dimes are rare, you might want to have them professionally graded to make sure you know what they are really worth before you sell them.
Other Coins You Might Like Even More
The coin-collecting world is diverse and full of fascinating coins. Here are some that you might like.
American Gold Eagle Coins
The American Gold Eagle Coin is a bullion coin minted by the United States Mint since 1986. Made from 22-karat gold, these coins come in sizes ranging from 1/10 to 1 ounce. They are one of the most popular forms of gold bullion in the U.S., even though they are 22 karats. American Gold Eagle coins are technically legal tender, but their face value is only $50, much lower than the value of gold in the coin (including the 1/10 ounce coin).
Many precious metals dealers carry American Gold Eagles because of their high demand; some notable platforms include American Hartford Gold and APMEX. You can buy these coins to be delivered directly, or you can buy them with a Gold IRA with the platforms listed.
American Buffalo Gold Coin
The American Buffalo Gold Coin is a popular bullion coin that replicates the iconic design of the Buffalo Nickel. First issued in 2006, this 1-ounce, 24-karat gold coin has become an increasingly sought-after investment vehicle because of its tangible value and aesthetic appeal.
The U.S. Mint also offers proof versions, which are struck twice for greater clarity and shine. You can purchase American Buffalo Gold coins from reputable precious metals providers such as American Hartford Gold and APMEX.
Are Mercury Dimes Worth Selling?
You will likely have to do some research before determining whether your Mercury Dimes are worth selling. If you happen to find a rare one, it may absolutely be worth selling. However, if your dimes aren't too rare or they are in poor condition, they may be much better as collector items.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Mercury Dime worth today?
On average, a common Mercury Dime in good condition can be worth around $3 to $5. However, if the dime is in excellent condition or has certain rare characteristics, its value can increase significantly, ranging from $10 to several hundred dollars. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional coin dealer or appraiser to get an accurate assessment of the specific dime in question.
What years of Mercury dimes are valuable?
Valuable Mercury dimes include 1916-D, 1921, 1921-D , 1931-S, 1942/1, and 1942/1-D.
What year is the $2000000 dime?
The $2 million dime is the 1894-S Barber dime—an ultra-rare proof issue with only 24 minted and about nine known to survive.
About Henry Stater
Henry is an expert in all things crypto. He stays up to date with all the latest coins, platforms and technologies in the field. He has particular expertise in the burgeoning decentralized finance ecosystem and loves trying out all the new platforms. He also always follows major events in other financial markets and geopolitics as a whole, especially when an event’s effects ripple through the crypto market.
