1945 Mercury Dime (Winged Liberty Head Dime)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (US Government), specifically Adolph A. Weinman (Designer)
Pattern: Mercury Dime Series (1916–1945)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (US Government), specifically Adolph A. Weinman (Designer)
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Sterling is .925, this is Coin Silver .900)
Dimensions
Diameter: 17.9 mm, Weight: 2.50 grams (approx. 0.0723 troy oz of pure silver content)
Description
A classic example of American coinage, the 1945 Mercury Dime is the final year of this iconic series. Despite its name, the profile depicts Liberty in a Phrygian cap with wings, symbolizing freedom of thought. This specific specimen shows soft luster and moderate circulation wear consistent with wartime usage.
Key Features
Winged Liberty profile, phrygian cap, AW designer monogram, 1945 final-year dating
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Sterling is .925, this is Coin Silver .900)
Finish & Decoration
Struck satin finish with relief design; Obverse features Winged Liberty, Reverse features Fasces with olive branch
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date '1945', LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and designer initials 'AW' (lower right of neck)
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck on a planchet at a federal mint facility
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping; currency denomination for legal tender
Handle & Grip Details
None (Circular coin form with reeded perimeter)
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engraved master dies; consistent rim height and reeding; high-quality mass production standards of the US Mint
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike characteristics for 1945; authentic 'AW' monogram placement; natural silver oxidation/patina; correct font for 'IN GOD WE TRUST'
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America (Mint marks would be Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)
Era & Period
Late World War II Era; American Neoclassical numismatic design
Age Estimate
Dated 1945; exactly 79 years old as of 2024
Cultural Significance
Represented American resilience and classical values through the Great Depression and World War II; one of the most beloved designs in US history.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; moderate wear on the high points of the hair and liberty cap; light surface scratches and toning visible; Grade estimated: Fine to Very Fine (F-VF)
Value Estimate
$2.50 to $6.00 (Standard circulated value based on silver melt and numismatic demand; higher if 'Full Bands')
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival holder to prevent further oxidation
Similar Pieces
Roosevelt Dime (1946-present), Barber Dime (1892-1916), Walking Liberty Half Dollar (same designer)
Interesting Facts
The model for Liberty was allegedly Elsie Stevens, the wife of poet Wallace Stevens. 1945 was the final year before the design was replaced by the Roosevelt Dime.