The 1916 S Mercury Dime

Minted in San Francisco, the 1916 S Mercury Dime was a popular coin of its time, and remains popular today among collectors. Adolph Weinman designed a beautiful dime depicting Liberty wearing a cap. On the cap were wings, meant to represent “Liberty of Thought.” As it turns out, that message wasn’t well conveyed and the public thought it represented the Roman god Mercury who wore a cap and sandals with wings. Mercury was the god of commerce and financial gain so it made sense to the public and Weinman’s actual meaning was lost to the ages.

Controversy in Design

With the production of new coins, there are often a number of issues that rise up in the process. When the Mercury Dime was released in 1916, manufacturers of coin operated machines began to complain that the Mercury Dime was too thick, or that it would be unable to pass through the counterfeit sensor systems. Even though these companies demanded redesigns, eventually the U.S. Mint decided they would proceed with the design as planned. 

1916 S Mercury Dime Values

Finding a 1916 S Mercury Dime is key for many collectors, and it is an exciting addition to any collection. Like many older coins, the value is tied to the condition of the coin. On a Mercury Dime, you should look for a clear image of Liberty in a winged cap, with “LIBERTY,” and “In God We Trust” clearly visible on the obverse. The reverse will feature a fasces with an olive branch, as well as the denomination mark. Highly circulated coins go for, on average, around four dollars. A mint condition coin is valued at twenty-five dollars. 

 

Type of coin: Dime

Year: 1916

Mint Mark: San Francisco 

Total mintage: 10,450,000

Metal content: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

Face value: Ten Cents

Weight: 2.5 grams

Edge: Reeded

Designer: Adolph Weinman

Diameter: 17.91 millimeters