1916 (S) Mercury Dime

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1916

Denomination

Dime

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Mercury Dimes 1916-1945

Designer

Adolph Alexander Weinman

Mintage

10,450,000

Composition

90% Silver, 10% Copper

Weight

2.5g

Diameter

17.9mm

Edge

Reeded

Value Estimates

$9.54 - $274

Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.

Auction Record

$4,406 MS67+ 03-21-2013 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1916 (S) Mercury Dime, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is part of the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 collection. With a mintage of 10.4 million, this is a less common issue — ranked 2nd of 3 mint variants by mintage, with 32% of production. The obverse features young Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom of thought — often called the "Mercury" dime despite not depicting the Roman god and the reverse displays a Roman fasces — a bundle of rods with an axe — entwined with an olive branch, symbolizing strength through unity tempered by peace. The first year of the Mercury Dime. The 1916-D with a mintage of only 264,000 is the key date. Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. Estimated market value ranges from $10 to $274 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #4908.