Semi-Numismatic

1916 Mercury Dime XF

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In 1916, the United States Mint introduced a new ten-cent piece that would become one of the most celebrated designs in American numismatics. Known popularly as the Mercury Dime, this coin actually depicts a youthful personification of Liberty on its obverse. She wears a winged Phrygian cap, a symbol meant to represent freedom of thought. The legend LIBERTY arches over her portrait, accompanied by the motto IN GOD WE TRUST and the date 1916. Crafted from 90 percent silver, this dime contains 0.0715 troy ounces of precious metal. The reverse design presents a striking contrast of themes, showing a traditional Roman fasces bound with an olive branch. This combination represents both readiness for defense and a desire for peace. The reverse inscriptions include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, the denomination ONE DIME, and the Latin motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. This particular specimen survives in Extra Fine condition, displaying the fine details of Adolph Weinman's original artistry. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint during the very first year of the series, it offers a fascinating look at a pivotal moment in American coinage design.