1938 (D) Mercury Dime

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,783 MS68 09-01-2003 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1938 (D) Mercury Dime is a dime minted at the Denver Mint, within the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 series. With a mintage of 5.5 million, this is a less common issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 15% of total 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. Struck during the Great Depression, when mintages dropped sharply and the United States abandoned the gold standard in 1933. The Denver Mint, which grew from an 1860s gold rush assay office, has served as a major production facility since 1906. Estimated market value ranges from $7 to $47 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 #5012.