The 1939 Mercury Dime is a popular collector's item, and its value can vary depending on several factors. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or just starting your coin collection, understanding the value of this iconic dime is essential.
In this article, we'll delve into the history of the Mercury Dime, its design, and what makes the 1939 version unique. We'll also explore the factors that affect its value and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to determine the worth of your 1939 Mercury Dime.
History of the Mercury Dime
The Mercury Dime, also known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, was designed by Adolph A. Weinman and was minted from 1916 to 1945. The coin was a replacement for the Barber dime, which had been in circulation since 1892. The Mercury Dime was intended to be a symbol of freedom and liberty, with the obverse featuring a depiction of Lady Liberty with wings on her head, symbolizing freedom of thought.
Design and Key Features
The 1939 Mercury Dime features a unique design that sets it apart from other coins of its era. The obverse, as mentioned earlier, features Lady Liberty with wings on her head, while the reverse features a fasces, a bundle of rods with an axe head, symbolizing unity and strength. The coin's design was meant to evoke the principles of freedom and democracy.
The 1939 Mercury Dime was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, with each mint producing a different number of coins. The Philadelphia mint produced the largest number of coins, with over 57 million dimes minted.
Factors Affecting Value
Several factors can affect the value of a 1939 Mercury Dime, including:
- Condition: The coin's condition is a significant factor in determining its value. Coins in better condition, with minimal wear and tear, are generally more valuable than those that are worn or damaged.
- Rarity: The rarity of the coin can also impact its value. Coins with lower mintage numbers or those that are harder to find are generally more valuable.
- Grading: The coin's grade, which is a measure of its condition, can also affect its value. Coins that have been professionally graded and certified by a reputable organization, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), can command a higher price.
- Provenance: The coin's provenance, or its ownership history, can also impact its value. Coins that have been owned by notable collectors or have been part of significant collections can command a higher price.
Value of the 1939 Mercury Dime
The value of the 1939 Mercury Dime can vary depending on its condition, rarity, grading, and provenance. Here are some approximate values for the 1939 Mercury Dime:
- Good condition: $1-$5
- Fine condition: $5-$10
- Extremely fine condition: $10-$20
- Mint state condition: $20-$50
- High-grade mint state condition: $50-$100
- Rare or error coins: $100-$1,000+
Gallery of Mercury Dime Coins
FAQs
What is the composition of the 1939 Mercury Dime?
+The 1939 Mercury Dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.
How many 1939 Mercury Dimes were minted?
+According to the United States Mint, over 57 million 1939 Mercury Dimes were minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
Is the 1939 Mercury Dime rare?
+The 1939 Mercury Dime is not particularly rare, but its value can vary depending on its condition, grading, and provenance.
Conclusion
The 1939 Mercury Dime is a highly sought-after collector's item, and its value can vary depending on several factors. By understanding the history, design, and key features of the coin, as well as the factors that affect its value, you can make informed decisions when buying or selling your 1939 Mercury Dime.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of numismatics and the 1939 Mercury Dime. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, we encourage you to continue learning and exploring the fascinating world of coins.