1941 Mercury Dime
The 1941 Mercury Dime had a massive mintage of over 175 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. With this huge mintage, it’s understandable that this coin can be found in circulated and Mint State grades all the way up to MS68 and MS68 in Full Band versions. The Full Band distinction comes when the center bands on the reverse of the coin on the fasces are sharply struck with clear separation between them. The 1941 Mercury Dime offers a lot of value for the quality that you can receive, with these high grades only commanding a small premium compared to some of the others of comparable grade in the series. Continue reading to learn more about 1941 mercury dime value.
AUCTION RECORD: $17,625 • MS68+FB
Image source: PCGS
History of the 1941 Mercury Dime
The 1941 Mercury Dime is worth the effort to cherrypick for a coin that is well-struck and one that also offers a lot of value. It should be easy to cherrypick through these as there are so many in existence. The obverse of the coin features a young and attractive Lady Liberty with a winged cap that symbolizes “liberty of thought,” while the reverse of the coin shows a fasces wrapped in bands and an olive branch. The Mercury Dime, along with the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, are both designed by Adolph A. Weinman.
1941 Mercury Dime Value
The 1941 Mercury Dime value ranges from around $2,100 to upwards of over $17,000 for the highest Mint State grades available and documented. It’s possible to find this coin in more accessible prices by seeking out circulated and lower Mint State grades. The 1941 Mercury Dime would make a great addition to any Mercury Dime series collection as the Philadelphia Mint was known for its excellent craftsmanship.
The value of a 1941 Mercury Dime largely depends on its condition, mint mark, and whether it has any rare varieties. Generally, 1941 Mercury Dimes are considered common in the series, as they were minted in large quantities across the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints. However, well-preserved examples and those with Full Bands (FB) details can command higher prices.
Here are some general value estimates for the 1941 Mercury Dime as of my last update in April 2023:
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Circulated Conditions (Good to Very Fine): $2 to $4. These coins show signs of wear and use.
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Fine to Extra Fine: $3 to $5. These coins have light to moderate wear but retain most of their design details.
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Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63): $6 to $15. Coins in this range have no wear and may show original mint luster, but might have contact marks or discoloration.
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Choice Uncirculated (MS-64 to MS-65): $20 to $30. These coins have strong luster and fewer contact marks.
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Gem Uncirculated (MS-66 and above): $40 to $100+, especially for those with Full Bands details on the fasces. The price can significantly increase for coins in MS-67 or higher grades, as they are rarer and more sought after by collectors.
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1941-D (Denver): Similar in value to the Philadelphia issue, with uncirculated examples ranging from $6 to $50+, depending on the grade and presence of Full Bands.
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1941-S (San Francisco): Values are comparable to the other mint marks, with uncirculated grades fetching $6 to $50+, and higher for Full Bands specimens.
It's important to note that the market for collectible coins can fluctuate, and prices may vary based on the selling platform, the buyer's and seller's motivations, and the coin's eye appeal beyond its technical grade. For the most accurate valuation, consider having your coin professionally graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
Type of coin: Dime
Year: 1941 Mercury Dime
Mercury Dime Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 175,090,000
Metal content: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Face value: Ten Cents
Weight: 2.50 grams
Edge: Reeded
Designer: Adolph Alexander Weinman
Diameter: 17.90 millimeters
FAQ
What is the value of a 1941 Mercury Dime?
The value of a 1941 Mercury Dime varies widely based on its condition, ranging from a few dollars for circulated coins to over $100 for uncirculated examples with Full Bands (FB) details.
How can I tell if my 1941 Mercury Dime is worth anything?
Assess the coin's condition, looking for minimal wear and clear details. Check for a mint mark (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, or none for Philadelphia) and consider having it graded by a professional service for an accurate valuation.
What makes a 1941 Mercury Dime valuable?
Factors that contribute to a 1941 Mercury Dime's value include its condition (higher grades are more valuable), Full Bands details on the fasces, and less commonly, any unique errors or varieties.
Are 1941 Mercury Dimes rare?
1941 Mercury Dimes are not considered rare in general circulation conditions but can be valuable in higher uncirculated grades, especially with Full Bands details.
What is the most expensive 1941 Mercury Dime ever sold?
High-grade 1941 Mercury Dimes with Full Bands details can fetch significant sums, with some MS-67 or higher grades selling for over $100. Exceptionally rare or unique pieces could sell for more at auction.
How does the mint mark affect the value of a 1941 Mercury Dime?
The mint mark (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, or none for Philadelphia) can slightly affect value, but condition and Full Bands details are more significant factors for 1941 Mercury Dimes.
What is a Full Bands (FB) 1941 Mercury Dime, and why is it valuable?
A Full Bands Mercury Dime features sharp, fully detailed horizontal bands on the fasces on the reverse. This detail indicates a well-struck coin and is sought after by collectors, making FB coins more valuable.
Can a circulated 1941 Mercury Dime be valuable?
While circulated 1941 Mercury Dimes are generally less valuable than uncirculated examples, those in higher circulated grades (EF, AU) can still be worth more than their silver content, especially with clear details.
Where is the best place to sell a 1941 Mercury Dime?
Selling options include reputable coin dealers, numismatic auctions, online marketplaces, and coin shows. For valuable or high-grade coins, consider a professional auction house or numismatic dealer specializing in U.S. coins.
How should I store my 1941 Mercury Dime to preserve its value?
Store your 1941 Mercury Dime in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use acid-free holders or capsules designed for coin storage to protect it from environmental damage and handling.
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