1921 Mercury Dime

About This Coin

The 1921 Mercury Dime is a United States dime from the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 series — 6th of 27 years in the series. In 1921, coins were struck at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints with a combined mintage of 2.3 million. This represents the lowest annual mintage in the entire series, below the series median of 56.6 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. Both the 1921 and 1921-D have low mintages, making them semi-key dates in the series. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have identified one known die variety for this date (repunched mint mark). Across its variants, estimated values range from $65 to $4.3K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $24K in MS67+ grade at Legend Rare Coin Auctions. Designed by Adolph Alexander Weinman.