A Numismatic Masterpiece: 1944-S Mercury Dime NGC MS68 FB
Discover a truly exceptional piece of American coinage with this 1944-S 10C Mercury Dime, certified by NGC at an outstanding Mint State 68 with the highly sought-after Full Bands (FB) designation. Struck from precious silver at the historic San Francisco Mint during the final years of World War II, this coin embodies both historical significance and numismatic perfection. Its remarkable preservation and superb strike make it a prime acquisition for discerning collectors.
Historical Resonance of the Mercury Dime Era
The Mercury Dime, officially known as the Winged Liberty Head Dime, graced American pockets from 1916 to 1945. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, its iconic obverse depicts a winged allegorical figure of Liberty, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury. The reverse features a fasces, symbolizing strength and unity, alongside an olive branch representing peace. The 1944-S issue emerged as the nation navigated the concluding stages of World War II, a time when silver coinage played a vital role in commerce and public sentiment. Coins from this era, especially in such pristine condition, connect collectors directly to a pivotal period in American history.
Distinguishing Features of This Rare Dime
This specific 1944-S Mercury Dime presents an extraordinary combination of attributes that set it apart:
- Denomination: 10 Cents (Dime)
- Metal Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Mint Mark: "S" for the San Francisco Mint, indicating its origin.
- NGC Grade: MS68 – A magnificent Mint State grade, signifying superb strike, full original luster, and virtually flawless surfaces. This grade places it among the finest known examples.
- Full Bands (FB) Designation: Crucial for Mercury Dimes, this designation confirms that the horizontal bands on the fasces on the reverse are fully separated and distinct, demonstrating an exceptionally strong strike.
- Certification ID: 8401129004 – Guaranteed authenticity and grade by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
- Rarity: While millions of 1944-S dimes were minted, finding one in MS68 with the Full Bands designation is remarkably challenging, making this a genuinely scarce coin.
Preserving Your Numismatic Treasure
To maintain the pristine condition of this high-grade Mercury Dime:
- **Handle with Care:** Always hold coins by their edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin, which can damage surfaces.
- **Secure Storage:** Keep the coin in its sealed NGC slab. For long-term preservation, store slabs in a cool, dry, and stable environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations.
- **Authentication:** Rely on trusted third-party grading services like NGC for verified authenticity and grading. This certified coin arrives ready for secure display and enjoyment.
Secure This Exceptional 1944-S Mercury Dime Today
Opportunities to acquire a 1944-S Mercury Dime in NGC MS68 FB condition are infrequent. This beautifully preserved silver dime offers a tangible link to history and stands as a testament to exceptional numismatic artistry and rarity. Don't let this unique chance slip away. Add this remarkable coin to your collection while it is still available.