Spanning both World Wars, the Great Depression, and over three decades of U.S. history, the Mercury dime is more than just pocket change—it’s a symbol of early 20th-century America and a potential treasure for collectors.

In some cases, these coins have sold for six figures, especially when they hail from rare mint years or remain in exceptional condition. If you have one stashed away, you could be holding a small fortune.

What You Need to Know

The Mercury dime, introduced in 1916 and minted until 1945, features a portrait of Liberty wearing a winged cap. Despite the common misconception, it doesn’t depict the Roman god Mercury. The design came to represent freedom of thought and quickly became an enduring icon of its time.

The 5 Most Valuable Mercury Dimes

Numerous factors affect a Mercury dime’s value, but some standout examples show just how high these coins can climb in worth. Below are five of the most valuable Mercury dimes ever sold:

Mercury Dime	Value
1919-D with full bands	$218,500
1916-D with full bands	$195,500
1918-S with full bands	$144,000
1919-S with full bands	$132,000
1942/1 Overdate with full bands	$120,000

1919-D Mercury Dime With Full Bands

Though nearly 10 million 1919-D dimes were minted in Denver, very few exhibit “full bands.” This refers to sharply defined horizontal lines across the fasces on the reverse side. When the central band appears clearly split, it signals an unusually high-quality strike—boosting the coin’s value dramatically. One such piece sold in 2000 for $218,500.

1916-D Mercury Dime With Full Bands

The 1916-D dime is among the rarest in the Mercury series. The Denver Mint produced just 264,000 of these coins before halting dime production in favor of quarters. Full-band examples are especially scarce, with one pristine coin fetching $195,500 in 2010.

1918-S Mercury Dime With Full Bands

Even fewer 1918-S dimes exist with full bands. This San Francisco-minted coin is already tough to find, but collectors pay a premium for well-preserved versions. One such example sold for $144,000 in 2019.

1919-S Mercury Dime With Full Bands

Nearly nine million of these were struck in San Francisco, but full-band examples remain elusive. Many were heavily circulated, diminishing the odds of finding one in top condition. In 2024, a near-mint coin sold for $132,000.

1942/1 Overdate Mercury Dime With Full Bands

This overdate error occurred when a 1942 die was stamped over a 1941 one, making both numerals faintly visible. Add the rarity of full bands, and the value spikes. One such coin went for $120,000 in 2018.

Wartime Mercury Dimes Still Have Value

Mercury dimes minted during World War II may not command six-figure prices, but they’re still worth far more than face value—especially in good condition. Here’s a snapshot of typical market ranges:

Wartime Dime	Value Range
1941 Mercury dime	$3 – $490
1942 Mercury dime	$3 – $4,000
1943 Mercury dime	$3 – $425
1944 Mercury dime	$3 – $425
1945 Mercury dime	$3 – $1,400

What Factors Influence a Mercury Dime’s Value?

If you’re trying to estimate how much your Mercury dime is worth, several details can make a huge difference:

Quick Tip: Use a magnifying glass when inspecting your dimes—important details like full bands or mint marks are easy to overlook.

• Condition: Coins that were never circulated typically fetch the highest prices. Look for sharp details and minimal wear.
• Full Bands: Not all Mercury dimes were struck with full bands. If yours has them, it could mean a much more valuable coin.
• Early Mint Years: Dimes from 1916 or other early years tend to be rarer and command higher prices.
• Mint Errors: Unique mistakes like overdates or doubled dies can significantly boost a coin’s desirability and value.

Mercury Dimes: More Than Just Coins

Every Mercury dime carries a story—whether from wartime America or the Roaring Twenties. While not every dime will be worth thousands, many are still valuable, especially if they’ve been well preserved. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or stumbled upon one in a drawer, these dimes offer more than just monetary worth—they’re pieces of American history.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.