12 facts about 1942 Mercury Dime
Design Excellence:The profile of Liberty wearing a winged cap gives it the popular nickname "Mercury Dime," even though it doesn't depict the Roman god Mercury.
Composition Change: Prior to 1942, Mercury Dimes were made of 90% silver. However, due to World War II, the composition changed to 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese.
Mint Locations: These dimes were minted in three locations: Philadelphia, Denver (identified by a "D" mintmark), and San Francisco (identified by an "S" mintmark).
Scarce S-Mint: The 1942 Mercury Dime from the San Francisco Mint is the scarcest of the three, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Low Mintage: The 1942 Mercury Dime had a relatively low mintage compared to other years, making it more valuable today.
Variety: No "S" Mint: In 1942, the San Francisco Mint didn't produce any Mercury Dimes, making the Philadelphia and Denver issues particularly special.
Collectible Errors: Like many coins, the 1942 Mercury Dime has its fair share of minting errors, such as off-center strikes and double dies, which are highly collectible.
Full Bands: Collectors look for "Full Bands" on the reverse of the coin, where the horizontal bands on the fasces (an ancient Roman symbol) are fully defined. Coins with full bands are more desirable.
Silver Meltdown: During the silver meltdown in the 1980s, many 1942 Mercury Dimes were melted down for their silver content, contributing to their scarcity.
Intricate Details: The Mercury Dime's intricate details and design make it a favorite among coin enthusiasts and artists alike.
Historical Context: Owning a 1942 Mercury Dime is like holding a piece of history from a time of great change and sacrifice during World War II.
Collector's Pride: Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your numismatic journey, the 1942 Mercury Dime is a must-have addition to any coin collection.