1942 Mercury Dime
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $4,800
- Sold
- Grade
- MS68+
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1942 Mercury Dime, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is part of the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 collection. The Philadelphia Mint struck 205,410,000 dimes dated 1942. 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 came from working dies that received one impression from a 1941-dated hub and one from a 1942 hub. 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(6)
1942 Atypical Die Clash ADC-10C-1942-01
1942 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001 / DDO-001
1942 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001
1942 Typical Die Clash TDC-10C-1942-01
CU-10c-1942-01R Cud
SKH-10c-1942-01 Spiked Head
Other Strike Types in This Series
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