Numismatic

1919 Mercury Dime AU

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The 1919 ten-cent piece stands as a classic representative of early twentieth-century American coinage. Struck in 90 percent silver at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin contains 0.0715 troy ounces of precious metal. It belongs to the famous series popularly known as the Mercury Dime, a name derived from the distinctive appearance of the central figure on the obverse. On the front of the coin, a youthful personification of Liberty is depicted wearing a winged Phrygian cap. This headwear often led observers to mistake her for the Roman messenger god, Mercury. The reverse side presents a contrasting pair of symbols: a fasces, representing strength and authority, entwined with an olive branch, which signifies a desire for peace. This particular specimen is preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition, showing only minor signs of wear from its brief time in circulation. The design was created by Adolph Weinman, whose work on both sides of this small silver coin remains celebrated for its artistic detail and balance.