The dime 1916-D Mercury is a testimony of numismatic rarity and historical strength. Minted more than a century ago, this dime has drawn thousands of collectors, with prices of some specimens going up to $200,000 at auction.
With a combination of unique characteristics and extremely limited mintage, it has ensured for itself a place among America’s most coveted coins.
The Genesis of the Mercury Dime
Launched in 1916, the Mercury Dime from sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, shows Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap-a symbol of freedom of thought. The reverse bears a fasces blended with an olive branch, implying unity and peace.
Widely honored in terms of artistry and symbolism, the design of the coin marked a break with all previous dime designs. The Birth of a Rare Coin in 1916-D Mercury Dime.
A mere 264,000 Mercury dimes were produced at the Denver Mint in 1916, the lowest mintage of the entire series. The mint focused its efforts on producing other denominations and left the now-scarce 1916-D dime not only at the outset for that reason.
It became rarer still because most circulated so extensively that they are next to impossible to find in conditions barely worthy of collecting.
Notable Auction Sales
The allure of the 1916-D Mercury Dime has led to impressive auction results:
| Year | Auction House | Grade (PCGS) | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Stack’s Bowers | MS-67 FB | $207,000 |
| 2020 | Stack’s Bowers | MS-65 | $26,400 |
| 2023 | Stack’s Bowers | MS-65 | $28,800 |
Factors Determining Its Value
Thus, the value of the 1916-D Mercury Dime can be related to the following factors:
- Low Mintage: The primary determining factor for the value of this coin is its mintage of only 264,000 coins-low indeed.
- Condition: Those coins that are classified as Mint State (MS), especially the extra
- special Full Bands (FB), will command a premium price based on their preservation and sharpness.
- Historical Significance: This coin deserves a special niche in numismatic history because it was the first year of mintage and at that time had the lowest mintage.
How to Authenticate a 1916-D Mercury Dime
In order to determine whether it is a real coin and whether it is worth anything, here are the steps you should follow:
- Mint Mark: Find the “D” mint mark located on the reverse side, to the left of the fasces, indicating Denver Mint origin.
- Date: Ensure there is “1916” on the obverse of the coin.
- Full Bands: Check to see whether the central bands of the fasces are fully separated, which would give the coin a Full Bands designation and thus add value.
- Professional Grading: I advise you to obtain an authentication and grade assessment from one of the premier services, such as PCGS or NGC, in light of counterfeits becoming so common.
for collectors and hobbyists alike, it creates a tangible link to the study of American monetary history.
Moreover, the Mercury Dime of the year 1916-d was a beautiful coin that brought together the elements of art, history, and rarity to form a coin of incredible worth.
This piece also acts as a bridge to a much more illustrious financial heritage in the United States and is revered as a piece of numismatic excellence.
FAQS:
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime so beautifully valued?
It includes low minting of just 264,000 coins, historical significance as a first-year issue, and the very strong desire for high-grade pieces with Full Bands.
How do you tell if my 1916-D Mercury Dime is real?
Check for the “D” mint mark on the reverse, confirm the date of 1916, examine the central bands for Full Bands designation, then consult a pro grading service for authentication.
What does the designation “Full Bands” mean?
The bands onto which the fasces were formed should be fully separated and distinct, indicating a sharp strike and increasing the value of the coin.