The 1919 Mercury Dime is one of the most coveted coins in American numismatics. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, this coin was minted between 1916 and 1945. While many Mercury Dimes are still in existence, few are as rare and valuable as the 1919 edition, with some specimens selling for over $103,500 at auctions.
If you’re a collector or have stumbled upon an old dime, you might be holding onto a small fortune! In this guide, we’ll explore the history, rarity, value, and key features of the 1919 Mercury Dime to help you determine whether you own a hidden treasure.
Table of Contents
History of the 1919 Mercury Dime
The Mercury Dime was first introduced in 1916, replacing the Barber Dime. The obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought, while the reverse showcases a fasces (a bundle of rods with an axe), representing unity and strength, alongside an olive branch for peace.
The 1919 Mercury Dime was struck during a period of economic recovery after World War I. Despite its high mintage, well-preserved examples are incredibly rare, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Why Is the 1919 Mercury Dime Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the high value of this coin:
- Collector Demand – As an early-year Mercury Dime, it holds great appeal.
- Low Survival Rate – Many coins from 1919 saw heavy circulation, leading to excessive wear.
- Rarity in Mint Condition – Full Bands (FB) specimens, with strong details on the fasces, are particularly rare.
- Historical Significance – Coins from the post-WWI era are highly valued for their historical context.
- Auction Records – Some 1919 Mercury Dimes in MS-67 FB condition have fetched over $103,500.
1919 Mercury Dime Mintage & Varieties
| Year | Mint Mark | Mintage | Estimated Value (Good) | Estimated Value (Mint State) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1919 | No Mint Mark (Philadelphia) | 35,740,000 | $4 – $40 | $2,500 – $50,000+ |
| 1919-D | Denver | 9,939,000 | $5 – $60 | $5,000 – $75,000+ |
| 1919-S | San Francisco | 8,850,000 | $6 – $70 | $6,500 – $103,500+ |
The 1919-S Mercury Dime is the rarest among the three, especially in high grades with Full Bands, making it the most valuable.
How to Identify a Rare 1919 Mercury Dime
If you think you own a 1919 Mercury Dime, follow these steps to verify its authenticity and potential value:
- Examine the Date and Mint Mark
- The year “1919” should be clearly visible on the obverse.
- The mint mark (“D” for Denver and “S” for San Francisco) appears on the reverse near the bottom left of the fasces.
- Look for Full Bands (FB)
- Coins with complete, well-defined separation in the bands on the fasces command premium prices.
- Assess the Condition
- Higher-grade coins with minimal wear, sharp details, and original luster are worth significantly more.
- Get Your Coin Graded
- Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and certify the coin, increasing its value.
- Avoid Cleaning the Coin
- Cleaning can cause damage and drastically lower its value.
Auction Records & Value Trends
| Grade | Price Estimate |
| Good (G-4) | $4 – $10 |
| Fine (F-12) | $15 – $50 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $150 – $500 |
| Mint State (MS-60) | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| MS-65 (Full Bands) | $50,000 – $85,000 |
| MS-67+ (Full Bands) | $103,500+ |
In 2019, a 1919-S MS-67 FB Mercury Dime set a record by selling for $103,500 at auction.
Best Places to Sell a 1919 Mercury Dime
If you own a valuable 1919 Mercury Dime, consider these selling options:
- Major Auction Houses – Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, and GreatCollections specialize in rare coins.
- Online Marketplaces – Platforms like eBay, PCGS CoinFacts, and Numista offer wide exposure.
- Local Coin Shops – Some dealers provide competitive prices for valuable coins.
- Coin Shows – These events allow direct interaction with collectors and dealers.
- Grading Services – Getting the coin professionally graded by PCGS or NGC can attract serious buyers.
Conclusion
The 1919 Mercury Dime is a highly desirable coin, with rare specimens selling for over $103,500 at auctions. If you own one, check the mint mark, Full Bands details, and overall condition to assess its potential worth. Before selling, consider professional grading and selecting the best marketplace to maximize its value. With its historical significance and strong collector demand, the 1919 Mercury Dime remains one of the most valuable dimes ever produced.
FAQs
- How do I determine if my 1919 Mercury Dime is valuable?
- Look for Full Bands, minimal wear, and high-grade condition. Professional grading from PCGS or NGC is highly recommended.
- What is the highest price ever paid for a 1919 Mercury Dime?
- A 1919-S MS-67 FB sold for $103,500 at auction, setting a record for this coin.
- Where can I find the mint mark on a 1919 Mercury Dime?
- The mint mark (“D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco) is located on the reverse, near the bottom left of the fasces.
- Should I clean my 1919 Mercury Dime before selling?
- No! Cleaning can damage the coin’s surface and lower its value significantly.
- Where is the best place to sell my 1919 Mercury Dime?
- Major auction houses (Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers), online platforms (eBay, PCGS), and reputable coin dealers are the best options.
