Semi-Numismatic

1917 Mercury Dime Fine

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In 1917, the United States Mint produced a ten cent piece that would become one of the most celebrated designs in American numismatic history. Struck in 90% silver, this coin contains 0.0715 troy ounces of precious metal. The example shown here has survived in Fine condition, meaning it displays honest wear from its time in circulation, particularly along the outer rims, yet its central features remain distinct. The obverse of the coin displays a youthful representation of Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, a powerful symbol of freedom of thought. Surrounding this portrait are the inscriptions "IN GOD WE TRUST" and the date "1917". Because of the wings on Liberty's cap, the design quickly became popularly known as the Mercury Dime, named after the Roman messenger god. On the reverse, the coin features a fasces, which is a bundle of rods bound around an ax, positioned alongside an olive branch. This combination represents both strength and peace. The inscriptions on this side include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", the denomination "ONE DIME", and the traditional Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM". Designed by Adolph Weinman, this Philadelphia Mint issue carries no mint mark, representing a classic era of American coinage.