1926 Mercury Dime
Base
About This Coin
The 1926 Mercury Dime is a United States dime from the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 series — 10th of 27 years in the series. In 1926, coins were struck at the San Francisco, Denver, and Philadelphia Mints with a combined mintage of 40.5 million. This ranks 12th of 27 years by total mintage, 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. The 1926-S is a condition rarity — common in lower grades but very scarce in Mint State. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have cataloged 6 known die varieties for this date. Produced 5 years after the celebrated 1921 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $8 to $4.3K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $9.9K in MS67 grade at David Lawrence RC. Designed by Adolph Alexander Weinman.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — range across all strike types, reflecting typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
