1942 Mercury Dime

About This Coin

The 1942 Mercury Dime is a United States dime from the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 series — a late issue, 24th of 27 years in the series. In 1942, coins were struck at the Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco Mints with a combined mintage of 376.2 million. This represents the highest annual mintage in the entire series, above 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 1942/1 and 1942/1-D overdates are famous varieties created when 1941-dated dies were re-engraved for 1942 production. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have cataloged 42 known die varieties for this date across 8 categories, including atypical die clash, cud, doubled die obverse and 5 other types. Across its variants, estimated values range from $7 to $19K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $90K in MS67+ grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Adolph Alexander Weinman.