Mercury Dimes are considered one of the prettiest American coins ever made. Interestingly, the figure on the front (called the obverse) is not actually Mercury, the Roman messenger god, but Lady Liberty wearing a winged hat. Let’s explore the most valuable Mercury Dimes and learn what makes them so special!
What Does FB Mean?
The term “FB” on Mercury Dimes stands for “Full Band.” This means the details on the coin, especially the straps on the back, are very clear. Coins with the FB designation are more valuable.
Most Valuable Mercury Dimes
Here’s a table listing the most valuable Mercury Dimes:
| Rank | Year | Mint Mark | Grade | Date of Sale | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1916 | D | MS 67 FB | August 11, 2010 | $207,000 |
| 2 | 1918 | D | MS 67 FB | September 3, 2015 | $182,125 |
| 3 | 1919 | D | MS 66 FB | January 14, 2019 | $156,000 |
| 4 | 1942/1 | None | MS 66 FB | January 3, 2018 | $120,000 |
| 5 | 1918 | S | MS 67 FB | January 14, 2019 | $144,000 |
| 6 | 1919 | S | MS 66 FB | November 9, 2006 | $103,500 |
| 7 | 1945 | None | MS 67+ FB | March 1, 2018 | $96,000 |
| 8 | 1925 | S | MS 68 FB | January 14, 2019 | $45,600 |
| 9 | 1920 | S | MS 67 FB | January 14, 2019 | $72,000 |
| 10 | 1927 | S | MS 67 FB | April 1, 2008 | $63,250 |
| 11 | 1926 | S | MS 67 FB CAC | October 11, 2010 | $54,625 |
| 12 | 1926 | D | MS 67 FB | January 14, 2019 | $60,000 |
| 13 | 1935 | S | MS 68 FB | January 14, 2019 | $90,000 |
| 14 | 1921 | D | MS 66+ FB | January 14, 2019 | $50,400 |
| 15 | 1924 | S | MS 66 FB | November 11, 2010 | $32,200 |
| 16 | 1923 | S | MS 66 FB | September 27, 2018 | $105,750 |
| 17 | 1938 | S | MS 68+ FB | June 27, 2019 | $364,250 |
Top 5 Most Valuable Mercury Dimes
1916-D Mercury Dime Full Band Business Strike
- Year: 1916
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Grade: MS 67 FB
- Price: $207,000
- Details: The Mercury Dime is officially called the Winged Liberty Dime. The back features a fasces and an olive branch.
1918-D Mercury Dime Full Band Regular Strike
- Year: 1918
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Grade: MS 67 FB
- Price: $182,125
- Details: Lady Liberty wears a Phrygian Cap, a symbol of freedom.
1919-D Mercury Dime Full Band Business Strike
- Year: 1919
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Grade: MS 66 FB
- Price: $156,000
- Details: The artist used Elsie Stevens as the model for Lady Liberty.
1942/1 Overdate Mercury Dime Full Band Regular Strike
- Year: 1942 (Over 1941)
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 66 FB
- Price: $120,000
- Details: This coin features a unique overdate error.
1918-S Mercury Dime Full Band Business Strike
- Year: 1918
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Grade: MS 67 FB
- Price: $144,000
- Details: This dime was minted with high relief and fine details.
The History of Mercury Dimes
The Mercury Dime was created during a time when the U.S. Mint wanted to improve the look of its coins. Before the Mercury Dime, coins were plain and uninteresting. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft wanted artists to design coins that looked better.
The Mercury Dime was made from 1916 to 1945. It was replaced after the death of President Franklin Roosevelt, who served as the 32nd president and was beloved by many.
Collecting Mercury Dimes
Collecting coins can be a fun and rewarding hobby! Mercury Dimes are popular among collectors for their beauty and history. If you have a Mercury Dime, it might be worth more than you think! The value depends on the year, mint mark, and grade.
To find out how much your Mercury Dime is worth, you can get a free appraisal through many online platforms or local coin dealers. Always ensure that you consult a reliable source for appraisals.
Conclusion
Mercury Dimes are not just pretty coins; they have a rich history and can be quite valuable. Understanding their design and the story behind each coin can make collecting them even more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, knowing the most valuable Mercury Dimes can help you appreciate this iconic piece of American history.
If you have any Mercury Dimes, consider getting them appraised. You might have a rare coin worth a lot of money!
FAQs
What is a Mercury Dime?
A Mercury Dime is a ten-cent coin that was minted by the United States from 1916 to 1945. The coin features Lady Liberty on the front and a design that includes a fasces and an olive branch on the back. It is also known as the Winged Liberty Dime.
Why are Mercury Dimes valuable?
Mercury Dimes are valuable due to their historical significance, artistic design, and rarity. Certain years and mint marks, especially those with the “Full Band” designation, can fetch high prices among collectors. Coins in excellent condition (higher grades) are typically worth more.
How can I tell if my Mercury Dime is valuable?
To determine the value of your Mercury Dime, check the year, mint mark (if any), and condition of the coin. Coins that are graded as MS 66 or higher, especially those with the FB designation, are more valuable. Consulting a numismatic expert or using online coin appraisal tools can provide an accurate assessment.
Where can I sell my Mercury Dimes?
You can sell your Mercury Dimes at local coin shops, through online marketplaces, or by auctioning them on platforms dedicated to coin collectors. It’s a good idea to have your coins appraised before selling to ensure you get a fair price.