1917 Mercury Dime

About This Coin

The 1917 Mercury Dime is a United States dime from the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 series — the second year of the series. In 1917, coins were struck at the Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco Mints with a combined mintage of 92.0 million. 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. Minted during and after World War I, as America emerged as a global power and experienced the prosperity of the Roaring Twenties. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Produced 4 years before the celebrated 1921 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $8 to $1.1K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $7.8K in MS67 grade at Stack's Bowers. Designed by Adolph Alexander Weinman.