Mercury dimes are among the most sought-after collectibles for coin enthusiasts, largely because they are quite common and can still be found today. Recognizable by the small wings on Mercury’s head, these dimes were minted from 1916 to 1945.
Though most Mercury dimes are worth about $4, some rare varieties can fetch as much as $364,250. Let’s explore the most valuable Mercury dimes in existence.
1. 1926-S Mercury Dime
- Minted: 1,520,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Estimated Value: $6,000
Explanation:
The 1926-S Mercury Dime is considered rare, primarily due to its limited mintage of 1,520,000 coins. Mercury dimes minted in San Francisco are generally rarer than those from other locations.
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2. 1924-S Mercury Dime
- Minted: 7,120,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Estimated Value: $8,000
Explanation:
At auction, a 1924-S Mercury Dime minted in San Francisco can sell for up to $8,000. This coin’s age and its limited availability make it a valuable find.
3. 1923-S Mercury Dime
- Minted: 6,440,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Estimated Value: $12,000
Explanation:
With just over 6 million coins minted, the 1923-S Mercury Dime holds significant value. The coin’s rarity, combined with its age, can command a price of around $12,000 in pristine condition.
4. 1919-S Mercury Dime
- Minted: 8,800,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Estimated Value: $15,000
Explanation:
The 1919-S Mercury Dime, with 8.8 million coins minted, can fetch about $4 in good condition. However, high-quality versions can be worth as much as $15,000.
5. 1918-D Mercury Dime
- Minted: 22,674,800
- Mint Location: Denver
- Estimated Value: $22,000
Explanation:
This dime, identified by the “D” mint mark, was produced in large numbers, with over 22 million coins minted. However, high-grade specimens with clear strikes can be worth up to $22,000.
6. 1916-D Mercury Dime With Full Band, Toning
- Minted: 264,000
- Mint Location: Denver
- Sold: 2013
- Sold Value: $88,125
Explanation:
A 1916-D Mercury Dime with a full band and beautiful toning can be incredibly valuable. This dime, sold in 2013 for $88,125, is a prime example of how desirable these coins are when they maintain their original patina.
7. 1935-S Mercury Dime With Full Band
- Minted: 15,840,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Sold: 2019
- Sold Value: $90,000
Explanation:
In 2019, a 1935-S Mercury Dime with a full band was sold for $90,000. Its high quality and full band feature contributed to its high auction value.
8. 1945 Mercury Dime With Full Band
- Minted: 41,920,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Sold: 2018
- Sold Value: $96,000
Explanation:
The 1945 Mercury Dime marked the end of the series, but full-band dimes from this year are quite rare, and one sold for $96,000 in 2018.
9. 1942 Mercury Dime With Overdate
- Minted: N/A
- Mint Location: Denver
- Sold: 2018
- Sold Value: $120,000
Explanation:
The overdate 1942 Mercury Dime is one of the most intriguing dimes in the series. The original 1941 date was engraved over with 1942, making this coin a rare collector’s item. One sold for $120,000 in 2018.
10. 1918-S Mercury Dime With Full Band
- Minted: 19,300,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Sold: 2019
- Sold Value: $144,000
Explanation:
This 1918-S Mercury Dime with a full band is exceptional due to the rarity of full bands on dimes from this year. It sold for $144,000 in 2019.
11. Rare 1916 Mercury Dime Sample
- Minted: N/A
- Mint Location: N/A
- Sold: 2020
- Sold Value: $192,000
Explanation:
This rare 1916 Mercury Dime is a unique sample, different from the regular production run. It sold for $192,000 in 2020, largely due to its distinctive features.
12. 1916-D Mercury Dime With Full Band
- Minted: 264,000
- Mint Location: Denver
- Sold: 2010
- Sold Value: $195,500
Explanation:
A 1916-D Mercury Dime with a full band can be worth nearly $200,000. Despite its high production volume, this dime remains highly sought after due to its rarity in mint condition.
13. 1919-D Mercury Dime With Full Band
- Minted: 9,939,000
- Mint Location: Denver
- Sold: 2000
- Sold Value: $218,500
Explanation:
The 1919-D Mercury Dime, if found in mint condition, can be extremely valuable. Though nearly 10 million were minted, only a few remain in pristine quality today. One sold for $218,500 in 2000.
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14. 1938-S Mercury Dime
- Minted: 8,090,000
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Sold: 2019
- Sold Value: $364,250
Explanation:
The 1938-S Mercury Dime holds the record for the most valuable Mercury dime ever sold, fetching $364,250 in 2019. Its high grade and stunning iridescent coloration made it stand out as one of the finest examples of the series.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.