In today’s era of digital and plastic money, hardly anyone can imagine that an old small coin can be worth crores. But one such coin in America – Mercury Dime, which is valued at $21.31 million (about $177 Million) – is still in the process of transaction today. The amazing factor is this 100 years old coin can still be held in the pocket of someone, piggy bank or collection of old coins.
What is Mercury Dime?
- The Winged Liberty Head Dime or more formally known as the Mercury Dime minted in 1916 to 1945 in the US. Adolph A. Weinman, who is a well known artist, designed this coin.
- The obverse of coin bears the image of the young woman, wearing a winged hat. It is the symbol of liberty and this hat portrays freedom of thought.
- The other side has an olive branch and a fasces or symbol of a ram axe which meant unity and peace.
- The coin is known as the Mercury Dime even when the coin does not contain the likeness of the Roman god Mercury.
Special Mercury Dime worth $21.31 million
Talking about this special coin, it is – 1916-D Mercury Dime, that is, it was issued in 1916 from the Denver Mint.
Only 264,000 copies of this coin were made, making it extremely rare.
The special thing about this coin is that the horizontal bands of the fasces on its reverse side are completely clear and distinct – called “Full Bands”.
In 2023, a coin found in the same condition fetched a price of $21.31 million at auction, which is the highest bid for any “dime” till date.
How to Identify a Rare Mercury Dime?
If you have a collection of old coins or are fond of collecting old coins, pay attention to the signs below:
- Look at the Date and Mint Mark
- 1916-D (D means Denver Mint) is the most valuable.
- Check for Full Bands
- The horizontal bands of fasces on the reverse side should be completely distinct and clear.
- Condition of the Coin
- The less worn and cleaner the coin, the higher its value.
Rims
- The rims of the coin must be intact and intact.
- All these features can be checked by way of a magnifying glass or jeweler loupe.
- Other Valuable Mercury Dimes
Where can these rare coins be found?
You may be surprised to know that some Mercury Dimes may still be in the possession of the general public. In such a situation, you can find these coins in these places:
- Piggy bank of old coins: In the childhood piggy bank of grandparents or elders.
- Flea market and Sunday market: Where old coins are often sold at an unknowingly low price.
- Bank roll hunting: Check the coin rolls received from the bank.
- Estate sales and auctions: Unexamined coins can be found in the belongings of old houses.
- Although the probability of this is very low, but due to this possibility, coin collecting remains exciting.
The thrill of the search: One chance in thousands
The thrill of finding a Mercury Dime is like a treasure hunt. Many collectors still search the vaults, pockets and markets of old coins, hoping to find 1916-D somewhere.
The story of $21.31 million is not just about a coin, but about the passion and hope that resides in the heart of every collector.
Mercury Dime: A Symbol of History, Art and Heritage
It is not a simple lump of metal, but a set of American history, art and symbolism. The rarities such as the 1916-D are too expensive and on top of that are highly important historically.
This might be an excellent inspiration to you in case you have an interest in coin collecting or history. You never know, the next time you count your holiday coins, perhaps you will possess a gleaming slicing of the past.
Conclusion
The Mercury Dime is not just a coin, but a symbol of historical heritage, art and a passion for discovery. The $21.31 million 1916-D edition is the culmination of this collection. If you have a stash of old coins, give it a try. Who knows, the next great discovery could start right in your own home!
FAQs
1. What is the Mercury Dime?
The Mercury Dime, officially called the Winged Liberty Head Dime, is a U.S. coin minted from 1916 to 1945. It features a depiction of Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought.
2. Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime so valuable?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is extremely rare due to its low mintage (only 264,000 coins) and its pristine condition in some cases. One such coin sold for $21.31 million at auction.
3. What does the “D” mean in 1916-D?
The “D” mint mark stands for the Denver Mint, where this rare dime was produced.
4. What are Full Bands, and why are they important?
Full Bands refer to the horizontal lines across the fasces on the reverse of the coin. If they are fully visible and not worn, the coin is considered higher grade and more valuable.
