The 1921 D Mercury Dime

The 1921 D Mercury Dime is a wonderful and valuable early series coin. When the 90% silver Mercury Dime was introduced in 1916, its design was symbolic of the nation’s state of mind, as World War I raged in Europe and the United States tried to keep out of the conflict. Some say Liberty’s winged cap symbolized freedom of thought, while the bundle of fasces with battle-ax on the reverse are said to signify strength and readiness to defend. The olive branch represented America's love of peace.

History of the Denver Mint

The predecessors of the Denver Mint were the men of Clark, Gruber and Company. During the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, they coined gold dust brought from the gold fields by the miners. In 1858, the men founded a brokerage firm and established an assay office in Denver at the beginning of the Colorado Gold Rush. Wanting to save on shipping and insurance costs associated with shipping gold back east, the firm opened a private mint, which later turned into an official branch of the U.S. Mint. 

1921 D Mercury Dime Values

The 1921 D Mercury Dime is a wonderful addition to any collection, as these coins are rare and valuable. 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 are worth eighty dollars, while uncirculated coins are worth well over a thousand dollars! 

 

Type of coin: Dime

Year: 1921

Mint Mark: Denver

Total mintage: 1,080,000

Metal content: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

Face value: Ten Cents

Weight: 2.5 grams

Edge: Reeded

Designer: Adolph Weinman

Diameter: 17.91 millimeters