Mercury dimes, minted between 1916 and 1945, have become icons in U.S. coinage for their intricate design and historical significance. These coins, officially known as Winged Liberty Head dimes, feature Lady Liberty donning a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought.
Certain rare editions of these dimes have captivated collectors, reaching impressive values due to their rarity, unique features, and minting errors. Below, we highlight some of the rarest Mercury dimes worth near $500,000, plus other notable coins that could bring you a small fortune.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history. Produced at the Denver Mint, only 264,000 were made, making it the rarest in the Mercury dime series. Due to its limited mintage and high demand, this coin has a significant value, especially in uncirculated condition.
1921 Mercury Dime
The 1921 Mercury Dime, minted during a recession, saw a low production run, making it a prized collectible. The combination of its rarity and historical context contributes to its high market value among collectors, particularly in high grades.
1921-D Mercury Dime
Another low-mintage coin, the 1921-D Mercury Dime was produced in Denver with fewer than 1.2 million coins minted. Its rarity and limited availability make it highly desirable, and collectors often pay a premium for well-preserved versions.
1931-S Mercury Dime
The 1931-S Mercury Dime is unique due to its low mintage during the Great Depression. This San Francisco mint coin is rare and valuable in higher grades, as few well-preserved coins remain today. It is a coveted piece in any collection of Mercury dimes.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is known for its famous overdate error, where the “1” in 1941 was mistakenly stamped over by “2,” creating a unique blend of the two years. Found in both Philadelphia and Denver mints, this coin has fascinated collectors, leading to high values at auction.
1942-D 42 Over 41 Mercury Dime
The 1942-D 42 Over 41 Mercury Dime is another sought-after overdate error coin, this one minted in Denver. It is distinct due to its rarity and the unique visual effect of the two numbers overlapping, making it one of the highest-valued Mercury dimes.
1931 Mercury Dime Proof
The 1931 Mercury Dime Proof is a gem for collectors, as very few were produced. This proof coin stands out with its highly polished finish, which enhances its visual appeal. It commands premium prices, especially when found in flawless condition.
1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime
A unique variety in the Mercury dime series, the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime is notable for its smaller-than-usual “S” mint mark. This subtle detail has drawn considerable attention, making it a rare and valuable addition for collectors who enjoy unique minting varieties.
1918/7-D Mercury Dime
The 1918/7-D Mercury Dime is another fascinating overdate error where “8” is stamped over “7.” It’s a well-known rarity that commands high prices in the collector’s market, especially in excellent condition, making it a treasure for enthusiasts.
| Coin Name | Year | Distinct Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Low mintage, Denver mint | $15,000 – $500,000 |
| 1921 Mercury Dime | 1921 | Low mintage, rare | $3,000 – $30,000 |
| 1921-D Mercury Dime | 1921 | Denver mint, low production | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| 1931-S Mercury Dime | 1931 | Low mintage, Great Depression era | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | 1942 | Overdate error, Philadelphia | $4,000 – $30,000 |
| 1945-S Micro S | 1945 | Unique small “S” mint mark | $1,500 – $10,000 |
| 1918/7-D Mercury Dime | 1918 | Overdate error, Denver | $10,000 – $30,000 |
The rare Mercury dimes listed above demonstrate how unique minting errors, low production runs, and historical context contribute to the increasing value of these coins. Each of these rare pieces tells a story, making them more than just currency; they are windows into the past, cherished by collectors worldwide.
If you come across any of these valuable dimes, you may be holding a significant collectible worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars.