Semi-Numismatic

1927 Mercury Dime Good/VF

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In 1927, the Philadelphia Mint produced a ten-cent piece that remains one of the most celebrated designs in American numismatic history. Struck in 90% fine silver with a precious metal content of 0.0715 troy ounces, this coin is popularly known as the Mercury Dime. The design was created by the artist Adolph Weinman, whose work captured the spirit of a growing nation. The obverse of the coin displays a youthful representation of Liberty. She wears a traditional Phrygian cap adorned with wings, a detail intended to symbolize freedom of thought. This winged cap led to the common public misconception that the figure was the Roman messenger god, Mercury. Surrounding this portrait is the word LIBERTY, accompanied by the national motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the 1927 year of issue. On the reverse, the design presents a fasces, a bundle of rods bound around an ax, which is closely intertwined with a leafy olive branch. This imagery represents both strength and a desire for peace. The inscriptions on this side include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, the denomination ONE DIME, and the Latin phrase E PLURIBUS UNUM, celebrating unity from many parts.