Find These 3 Silver Mercury Dimes That Are Each Worth Over $1 Million

The Mercury dime, minted from 1916 to 1945, is a cherished piece among numismatists. While many of these dimes are common, certain rare specimens have fetched over $1 million at auctions. This article delves into three such extraordinary Mercury dimes, exploring their unique features, historical significance, and the factors contributing to their immense value.

1. 1916-D Mercury Dime

The 1916-D Mercury Dime stands out due to its exceptionally low mintage and the allure of its “Full Bands” designation.

Key Features:

• Mintage: Approximately 264,000, the lowest in the Mercury dime series.
• Mint Mark: ‘D’ indicating the Denver Mint.
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
• Design: Lady Liberty with a winged cap on the obverse, a fasces, and an olive branch on the reverse.

Notable Sales:

• In 2010, a specimen graded MS67 with Full Bands sold for $207,000.
• Another example fetched $1.5 million, reflecting its rarity and desirability among collectors.

Factors Influencing Value:

• Low Mintage: The limited production makes it a key date for collectors.
• Full Bands: Coins with fully struck horizontal bands on the fasces are particularly valuable.
• Condition: Higher grades command significantly higher prices.

2. 1942/1-D Overdate Mercury Dime

This intriguing variety resulted from a die error, where the date exhibits remnants of both 1941 and 1942.

Key Features:

• Overdate Error: Visible overlap of the digits ‘1’ and ‘2’.
• Mint Mark: ‘D’ for Denver.
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.

Notable Sales:

• A 1942/1-D Mercury Dime in high grade has achieved auction prices exceeding $100,000.

Factors Influencing Value:

• Rarity: The overdate error is uncommon, making these dimes highly sought after.
• Condition: Well-preserved examples with clear overdate features are especially valuable.

3. 1938-S Mercury Dime

The 1938-S Mercury Dime is renowned for its exceptional quality and eye appeal, particularly in higher grades.

Key Features:

• Mintage: Approximately 8,090,000.
• Mint Mark: ‘S’ denoting the San Francisco Mint.
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.

Notable Sales:

• In 2019, a 1938-S Mercury Dime graded MS68+ with Full Bands sold for a record-breaking $364,250.

Factors Influencing Value:

• Condition: The coin’s pristine state and Full Bands designation significantly enhance its value.
• Eye Appeal: Attractive toning and luster contribute to its desirability.

Understanding the ‘Full Bands’ Designation

The term “Full Bands” (FB) refers to the horizontal bands on the fasces depicted on the reverse of Mercury dimes. For a coin to receive the FB designation, these bands must be fully separated and distinct, indicating a strong, well-centered strike. Coins with this feature are scarcer and, therefore, more valuable.

Summary of Notable Mercury Dimes

Year	Mint Mark	Mintage	Notable Sale Price	Key Feature
1916	D	264,000	$1.5 million	Lowest mintage in series
1942/1	D	N/A	Over $100,000	Overdate error
1938	S	8,090,000	$364,250	High-grade with Full Bands

Tips for Collectors

• Examine Details: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the date, mint mark, and band details.
• Assess Condition: Coins in higher grades with clear features are more valuable.
• Seek Professional Evaluation: Consult a reputable coin grading service for accurate assessment.

While most Mercury dimes are modestly priced, certain rare specimens have achieved remarkable auction prices due to their unique features, historical significance, and exceptional condition. Collectors should remain vigilant, as discovering one of these treasures could prove exceedingly rewarding.

FAQs

What makes a Mercury dime valuable?

Factors such as low mintage, mint errors, the Full Bands designation, and the coin’s condition contribute to a Mercury dime’s value.

How can I identify a 1942/1 overdate Mercury dime?

Look for overlapping digits in the date, where the ‘1’ and ‘2’ are superimposed, indicating the overdate error.

What does the ‘Full Bands’ designation mean?

It refers to the fully separated horizontal bands on the fasces on the coin’s reverse, indicating a strong strike and adding to the coin’s value.