United States Winged Liberty Head (Mercury) Dime
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint; designed by Adolph A. Weinman. Produced at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints.
Pattern: Winged Liberty Head (Mercury) Dime, introduced 1916, replaced by Roosevelt Dime in 1946.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint; designed by Adolph A. Weinman. Produced at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints.
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper. Net silver content is approximately 0.07234 troy ounces.
Dimensions
Diameter: 17.9 mm; Thickness: 1.35 mm; Weight: 2.50 grams.
Description
A classic example of American 'Renaissance' coinage design, featuring Liberty in a winged cap which led to the popular misnomer 'Mercury Dime.' It represents a shift from the utilitarian Barber coinage to a more artistic, Neoclassical aesthetic in U.S. currency.
Key Features
Phrygian cap with wings (symbolizing freedom of thought), fasces on reverse (symbolizing unity and strength), and olive branch (symbolizing peace).
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper. Net silver content is approximately 0.07234 troy ounces.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief design. Obverse features Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap with wings; Reverse features a fasces and an olive branch.
Hallmarks & Stamps
United States Mint marks. Philadelphia (no mark), 'D' for Denver, or 'S' for San Francisco. Artist monogram 'AW' often found near the neck.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using hardened steel dies in a toggle-joint or steam-powered minting press.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (118 reeds) to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the precious metal.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a numismatic coin.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engraved master hubs and dies ensured high-quality mass production consistent with early 20th-century industrial standards.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck characteristics, correct reeded edge, specific diameter and density characteristic of 90% silver alloy. No obvious evidence of 'cast' counterfeiting.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco Mint workshops.
Era & Period
Early 20th Century Americana; World War I through World War II era (1916-1945).
Age Estimate
Dated 1916-1945. Specific date is visible on the lower left obverse, though blurred in the photo.
Cultural Significance
Minted during some of the most pivotal moments in US history, including both World Wars and the Great Depression; it remains one of the most beloved designs in US numismatics.
Condition Notes
Estimated 'Circulated' condition (Good to Very Good). Visible wear on the hair and ear of Liberty; significant tarnish/patina; lack of 'Full Split Bands' on reverse due to wear.
Value Estimate
Melt (silver) value is currently ~$1.70 - $2.50. Common dates in this condition sell for $3-$5; rare dates (e.g., 1916-D) can be worth thousands.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors are advised NOT to polish or clean coins with chemicals, as it removes the 'luster' and reduces numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules.
Similar Pieces
Barber Dime (predecessor), Roosevelt Dime (successor), and the 2016 Gold Mercury Dime Centennial Commemorative.
Interesting Facts
The model for Liberty's face was Elsie Stevens, the wife of poet Wallace Stevens. The wings on the cap was intended to symbolize freedom of thought, not the Roman god Mercury.