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Mercury Dimes

The Mercury dime is a captivating piece of American numismatic history minted from 1916 until its replacement by the Roosevelt Dime in 1945. As a response to the desire for more elegant coinage, this remarkable dime features Adolph Weinman's artistic rendition of Lady Liberty. Unique for its intricate design, this dime is often mistaken for depicting the Roman god Mercury. Explore L&C Coins’ selection of brilliant Mercury dimes for sale today and add a piece of timeless elegance to your collection.

Embrace a Legacy of Art and History With the Mercury Dime

Origin

The origin of this dime (also referred to as the Winged Liberty Head dime) can be traced back to the early 20th century when a movement to enhance the aesthetic appeal of American coinage was gaining momentum. This movement led to the introduction of this special dime in 1916, as part of a larger initiative to replace the Barber Coinage, which had been in circulation since 1892. The U.S. Mint held a competition to select new designs for various denominations, and Adolph Weinman's striking portrayal of Lady Liberty on the dime was ultimately chosen for its artistry and powerful representation of freedom.

 

Design

Most U.S. coins feature popular American symbolism or major figures in our history. So why would some U.S. dimes feature a Roman god? Well, its name is actually a misnomer from an early misidentification of Weinman's design. The obverse of this coin features Lady Liberty in a winged cap, representing free thinking. At some point, she was mistaken for Mercury, who wears a similar winged cap, and the nickname stuck. The reverse features Roman fasces of an ax tied to rods and an olive branch. 

 

Circulation and Availability

This dime was minted from 1916 to 1945. Over the course of its production, billions of these dimes were struck, making them widely circulated and readily available. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s passing in 1945 prompted the creation of the Roosevelt dime, which replaced the coin in circulation in 1946. Although the Winged Liberty dime is no longer produced, they remain popular among collectors for their historical significance, recognizable face and striking imagery, and 90% silver composition.

 

Shop a Wide Selection of Mercury Dimes for Sale

L&C Coins is a family-owned coin dealer serving collectors since 1974. We are certified dealers with PCGS and NGC, and we use our thorough knowledge of coin valuation and designs to add authentic coins to our growing inventory. We make buying collectible coins simple with our 15-day return privilege, free shipping on all standard orders with express shipping for orders of $25 or more, and layaway plans with no interest for up to five months. Explore our vast selection and expand your collection with confidence today. 

Have questions about Mercury dimes for sale on our site? Call us at 1-800-669-0953 or fill out our online form to speak with a coin expert.

 

Frequently-Asked Questions

Why are they called Mercury dimes?

These silver dimes earned their nickname due to the misconception that the obverse features the Roman god Mercury. In reality, the design portrays Lady Liberty adorned with a winged Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom and liberty. Despite the misnomer, the name has become a popular and enduring term for this historic coin.

 

What are Winged Liberty Head dimes made of?

Winged Liberty head dimes are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This alloy is commonly referred to as "coin silver" and was used for many U.S. coins minted prior to 1965. Each Mercury Dime contains approximately 0.0723 troy ounces of silver.

 

What is the design on the Mercury dime?

The obverse of this dime features Adolph A. Weinman's iconic design of Lady Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, while the reverse showcases a fasces and an olive branch, representing strength and peace respectively.

Mercury Dimes: A Unique Name and Design

Most U.S. coins feature popular American symbolism or major figures in our history. So why would some U.S. dimes feature a Roman god? The name Mercury Dimes is actually a misnomer from an early misidentification of Weinman's design.

The obverse features Lady Liberty in a winged cap, representing free thinking. At some point, she was mistaken for Mercury, who wears a similar winged cap, and the nickname stuck. The reverse features Roman fasces of an ax tied to rods and an olive branch. Designed by Adolph Weinman and produced between 1916 and 1945, Silver Mercury Dimes are an exciting addition to any coin collection.

Shop a Wide Selection of Mercury Dimes for Sale

L&C Coins is a family-owned coin dealer serving collectors since 1974. We are certified dealers with PCGS and NGC, and we use our thorough knowledge of coin valuation and designs to add authentic coins to our growing inventory. We make buying collectible coins simple with

  • A 15-day return privilege. 
  • Free shipping on all standard orders, with express shipping for orders of $25 or more.
  • Layaway plans with no interest for up to five months. 

Have questions about the Mercury Dimes for sale on our site? Call us at 1-800-669-0953 or fill out our online form to speak with a coin expert.

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