The 1939 Mercury Dime

The 1939 Mercury Head Dime was a very popular coin during its circulation due to its buying power, and it remains a popular coin with collectors today. The dime is the smallest coin produced by the U.S. Mint, with a diameter under 18 mm, but it is worth more than the penny or the nickel which are both larger in size. 

Liberty on the Dime

Lady Liberty reigned on the dime in different forms until she was replaced by President Roosevelt in 1946. Usually just her head was shown, but her full body, seated on a rock, was used for many years in the 1800s. On the Mercury Dime, she is shown with wings on her head from 1916 to 1945, to symbolize freedom of thought, but many people mistook her for the Roman messenger god, Mercury. 

1939 Mercury Dime Value

Many collectors are looking for a beautiful 1939 Mercury Dime to add to their 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 are worth around two dollars and twenty-five cents, but a mint, uncirculated coin is worth six dollars!

 

Type of coin: Dime

Year: 1939

Mint Mark: None

Total mintage: 67,400,000

Metal content: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

Face value: Ten Cents

Weight: 2.5 grams

Edge: Reeded

Designer: Adolph Weinman

Diameter: 17.91 millimeters