1942 Mercury Dime
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
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
$4,800 MS68+ 01-14-2019 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1942 Mercury Dime, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is part of the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 collection. The U.S. Mint produced 205.4 million examples, making this the highest mintage among 4 variants, accounting for 55% of the year's 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 1942/1 and 1942/1-D overdates are famous varieties created when 1941-dated dies were re-engraved for 1942 production. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $380 to $19K 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 #5034.
External References
Error Varieties(8)
1942 Atypical Die Clash ADC-10C-1942-01
1942 Doubled Die Obverse DDO-001
1942 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001
1942 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001
1942 Typical Die Clash TDC-10C-1942-01
CU-10c-1942-01R Cud
SKH-10c-1942-01 Spike Head
SKH-10c-1942-01 Spiked Head
Other Strike Types in This Series
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