The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most sought-after coins for collectors, especially since it was made during the first year of production for this iconic series. Known for its elegant design and historical significance, this coin represents an important era in American coinage. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 1916-D Mercury Dime, why it’s rare, and what makes it valuable.
History of the 1916-D Mercury Dime
The Mercury Dime, officially called the Winged Liberty Dime, was first minted in 1916 and was in production for almost 30 years. Its unique design, created by Adolph A. Weinman, was inspired by classical art and aimed to represent freedom and liberty. Many people mistakenly think the figure on the coin is the Roman god Mercury, but it’s actually a depiction of Liberty wearing a winged cap.
During its time in circulation, the Mercury Dime was well-liked for its beauty and functionality. It even became part of popular culture, being featured in many advertisements and campaigns, like the March of Dimes. The dime’s run ended in 1945 after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was later honored on the new dime design.
Why Is the 1916-D Mercury Dime So Rare?
Even though millions of Mercury Dimes were produced in 1916, only 264,000 of them were made at the Denver Mint, marked with a small “D” mint mark. This low production number makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the series.
Collectors believe that production at the Denver Mint was cut short to focus on making quarters. This is why so few 1916-D dimes exist, especially in good condition. As a result, finding one in mint state condition is incredibly difficult and highly valuable.
Value of the 1916-D Mercury Dime
Because of its rarity, the 1916-D Mercury Dime is highly prized by collectors. Prices vary greatly depending on the condition of the coin. A well-worn example can sell for around $1,000, while mint-condition versions can go for over $12,000. If the coin has the highly desirable “Full Bands” on the reverse, indicating a strong, well-centered strike, it can fetch even higher prices. In some cases, these coins have sold for more than $200,000 at auction.
However, collectors should be cautious when buying a 1916-D Mercury Dime. Due to its high value, this coin is often counterfeited. Many fakes involve adding a “D” mint mark to a regular 1916 Philadelphia coin, so it’s essential to purchase only certified coins from trusted sources.
Design Details of the 1916-D Mercury Dime
Obverse (Front) Design
The front of the coin shows Liberty facing left, wearing a winged cap that symbolizes freedom of thought. The word “LIBERTY” wraps around the top of the coin, with “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the lower left. The year 1916 is at the bottom.
Reverse (Back) Design
On the back of the coin, a fasces—a bundle of sticks with an axe—symbolizes strength and unity. An olive branch wraps around it, representing peace. The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DIME” are inscribed around the edge, and the small “D” mint mark is to the lower left of the fasces.
Coin Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1916 |
| Denomination | 10 Cents (USD) |
| Mintmark | D (Denver) |
| Mintage | 264,000 |
| Composition | .900 Fine Silver |
| Weight | 2.50 grams |
| Diameter | 17.90 mm |
| Thickness | 1.35 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designer | Adolph A. Weinman |
Conclusion
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a rare and historically significant coin that represents the artistry and heritage of early 20th-century American coinage. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, owning a 1916-D is considered a major achievement. With its beautiful design and limited production, this coin remains a key piece of U.S. numismatic history. Just remember to ensure authenticity when purchasing one, as it’s often counterfeited.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime so rare?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is rare because only 264,000 coins were minted at the Denver Mint. This low production number makes it highly sought after by collectors.
How much is a 1916-D Mercury Dime worth?
The value of a 1916-D Mercury Dime varies depending on its condition. Well-worn examples can be worth around $1,000, while mint-condition coins with “Full Bands” can sell for over $200,000.
How can I tell if my 1916-D Mercury Dime is authentic?
To avoid counterfeit coins, it’s important to purchase only certified examples from trusted dealers. Many fakes involve adding a “D” mint mark to regular 1916 dimes, so authentication is key.