Mercury Dime Value (1916–1945)
Quick answer: Every Mercury dime is worth at least its silver content (about $1.50–$2.50 depending on silver prices). Common dates run $2–$5 circulated; the 1916-D runs $800+ even heavily worn.
The Mercury dime — officially the Winged Liberty Head — is widely considered the most beautiful U.S. dime, and every single one is 90% silver. That means a hard floor under the value: even the most worn example is worth a couple of dollars, never ten cents.
The date to hunt is 1916-D: first-year Denver production of just 264,000 pieces. Check the mint mark on the reverse, at the bottom left of the fasces (the bundle of rods).
Key dates worth serious money
1916-D
$800 – $10,000+
1921 & 1921-D
$50 – $1,000
1926-S
$12 – $800
1942/1 & 1942/1-D overdates
$400 – $5,000+
The story behind the coin
Adolph Weinman’s 1916 design shows Liberty in a winged cap symbolizing freedom of thought — the public mistook her for the Roman god Mercury and the name stuck. The reverse fasces symbolizes strength through unity; collectors pay big premiums for coins with fully separated "Full Bands" on it.
Frequently asked questions
How much silver is in a Mercury dime?
0.0723 troy ounces of pure silver (90% of 2.5 grams). Multiply the silver spot price by 0.0723 for the melt floor.
How do I check for the 1916-D?
Date on the front, then flip it: the mint mark sits low on the reverse left of the fasces base. A D there on a 1916 coin is a big deal — but it’s also the most counterfeited dime, so authenticate.
What does "Full Bands" mean?
The two horizontal bands crossing the fasces are fully split and rounded — a strike-quality designation that multiplies uncirculated values.
Are 1940s Mercury dimes worth anything?
They’re the most common — but still silver. $2–$4 circulated, more uncirculated, and check 1942 for the famous 42/41 overdate.
Related value guides
Buffalo Nickel Value (1913–1938)
Silver Quarter Value (Pre-1965)
Morgan Silver Dollar Value (1878–1921)
Values shown are typical retail ranges for the grades described, based on recent dealer and auction pricing. Markets move; exact value depends on grade, variety and eye appeal. This guide is informational and not a formal appraisal.