Semi-Numismatic

1928 Mercury Dime XF

---

In 1928, the Philadelphia Mint produced a ten-cent piece that remains celebrated for its artistic merit and classic American imagery. Struck in 90% silver, this dime contains approximately 0.0715 troy ounces of precious metal. It represents a fascinating era of United States coinage where everyday currency was transformed into miniature works of sculptural art. The obverse of the coin showcases a youthful depiction of Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, a design element that historically led the public to mistake her for the Roman god Mercury. Alongside this portrait, the timeless motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is clearly visible, accompanied by the 1928 date. This iconic image was created by the sculptor Adolph Weinman. On the reverse, Weinman placed a fasces, a bundle of rods bound around an axe, paired with an olive branch. These contrasting symbols represent the nation's readiness for defense alongside a deep desire for peace. This particular specimen survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the fine details of this historic silver issue for modern observers to appreciate.