The Mercury Dime is one of the most iconic U.S. coins, known for its beautiful design and historical value. Minted from 1916 to 1945, these coins were produced in large numbers, especially in 1941 and 1942 at the Philadelphia Mint. While these coins are widely available, certain rare varieties can be valuable for collectors. In this article, we will explore the key facts about the 1941 and 1942 Mercury Dimes, including what makes the 1942/41 overdate so special.
What Is the Mercury Dime?
The Mercury Dime, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, features an image of Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap on the obverse (front) side of the coin. This design led people to nickname it the “Mercury Dime,” as it resembles the Roman god Mercury. On the reverse (back) of the coin, there’s a fasces (a bundle of sticks with an axe), symbolizing strength, and an olive branch, representing peace.
Mercury Dimes were made of 90% silver and 10% copper, making them valuable not only for their beauty but also for their metal content. These dimes were created to replace the Barber Dime and became a favorite among collectors.
1941 Mercury Dime: Philadelphia Mint
The 1941 Mercury Dime produced by the Philadelphia Mint is one of the more common coins from the Mercury Dime series. The Philadelphia Mint struck over 175 million dimes that year, making it relatively easy to find. However, collectors who seek higher-grade examples (coins with less wear) can find these dimes more valuable.
Key Facts About the 1941 Mercury Dime:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Mintage | 175,090,000 |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Weight | 2.50 grams |
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Edge | Reeded (lines on the edge) |
| Designer | Adolph A. Weinman |
A 1941 Mercury Dime can be worth only a few dollars in worn condition, but in higher grades, especially those graded MS-65 (Mint State 65) or above, the value increases. These coins can be worth hundreds of dollars, depending on their condition and the clarity of their details.
1942 Mercury Dime: Philadelphia Mint
The 1942 Mercury Dime is also a common coin, with over 205 million dimes minted at the Philadelphia Mint. Like the 1941 version, this coin is easy to find in circulated grades, but the true collector’s gem is the 1942/41 overdate variety. This error coin, where the 1941 date is over-stamped with the 1942 date, is highly prized among collectors.
Key Facts About the 1942 Mercury Dime:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Mintage | 205,410,000 |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Weight | 2.50 grams |
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designer | Adolph A. Weinman |
The 1942/41 Overdate Variety
The 1942/41 overdate is a famous minting error that occurred when the die (the tool used to stamp the design onto the coin) from 1941 was reused and accidentally over-punched with the 1942 date. The result is an overlapping date where parts of the “1” and “2” from 1942 can be seen on top of the “1” from 1941.
Key Facts About the 1942/41 Overdate:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Overdate Feature | Visible overlap of the “1” and “2” on the date |
| Rarity | Scarce, especially in high-grade condition |
| Value | Can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on condition |
How to Collect 1941 and 1942 Mercury Dimes
If you’re looking to collect these Mercury Dimes, keep the following tips in mind:
- Condition Matters: The better the condition of the coin, the more valuable it is. Look for coins with sharp details and minimal wear, especially on the fasces on the reverse.
- Look for Full Bands: Collectors often seek coins with “Full Bands” on the fasces, which means the horizontal lines are fully separated and well-struck.
- Watch for Errors: The 1942/41 overdate is one of the most sought-after error coins and can be quite valuable in higher grades.
Conclusion
The 1941 and 1942 Mercury Dimes from the Philadelphia Mint offer an interesting look at U.S. coin history. While most examples are easy to find and affordable, the 1942/41 overdate error is a rare and valuable variety that can elevate any collection. Whether you’re just starting or are an experienced coin collector, these dimes offer a great mix of history, beauty, and potential value.
FAQ’s
How much silver is in a 1941 or 1942 Mercury Dime?
Both the 1941 and 1942 Mercury Dimes are made of 90% silver and 10% copper. Each dime contains about 0.07234 troy ounces of silver.
What makes the 1942/41 Mercury Dime special?
The 1942/41 Mercury Dime is a rare error coin where the date was stamped twice, with parts of “1941” showing beneath “1942.” This overdate error makes it highly valuable.
How much is a 1941 or 1942 Mercury Dime worth?
The value depends on the coin’s condition. A typical 1941 or 1942 Mercury Dime can be worth a few dollars, but high-grade examples or the rare 1942/41 overdate can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.