Numismatic

1942/41 Mercury Dime Fine

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The 1942 Mercury Dime features one of the most famous and dramatic mint errors in American numismatic history. Minted in Philadelphia, this coin is a prominent overdate variety, officially designated as the 1942/1. Unlike many subtle mint errors that require a magnifying glass to detect, this striking anomaly is visible to the naked eye, showing the clear remnants of the previous year's digit beneath the new date. Crafted from 90 percent silver with a precious metal content of 0.0715 troy ounces, the coin showcases the iconic designs of Adolph Weinman. The obverse presents a youthful personification of Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, accompanied by the inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST" and the dual-layered date. Because this piece was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, it does not display a mint mark. The reverse of the ten cent piece depicts a traditional fasces paired with an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace. This side bears the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and the denomination "ONE DIME". Finding this coin in Fine condition allows enthusiasts to appreciate a historic production mistake that slipped through the minting process during a pivotal year.