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.
Vikas Lalit is an experienced content writer at OTE News, covering business, economy, and international affairs. With a degree in Journalism, he combines analytical thinking with engaging storytelling to deliver well-researched updates. Vikas is passionate about uncovering underreported stories that impact readers.
Outside of work, he enjoys playing chess, following cricket, and writing short stories. His commitment to integrity and in-depth analysis strengthens OTE News’ mission of providing trustworthy journalism.