1945-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-003

Description

One of the more dramatic repunched mintmarks in the Mercury Dime series, RPM-003 of the 1945-S features an inverted S punched first, followed by a horizontal S correction, before the final upright S was applied. This complex sequence creates overlapping mintmark impressions where the inverted and rotated positions remain visible beneath the final placement, producing a compelling diagnostic under magnification. Cross-referenced as FS-503 in the Cherry Picker's Guide, this variety carries recognized significance. The mintmark style is classified as MMS-006, the Ball Serif variant, describing the specific S punch with rounded serif terminals used on this die. The Mercury Dime series, designed by Adolph Weinman and struck from 1916 through 1945, concluded with the 1945 issues, making RPM-003 a final-year variety. San Francisco struck Mercury Dimes throughout the series alongside Philadelphia and Denver. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, this last-year Mercury Dime preserves a multi-stage mintmark error where the inverted and horizontal S impressions beneath the corrected placement document the hand-punching process of pre-modern die preparation.

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