Semi-Numismatic

1942 Mercury Dime XF

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The 1942 ten-cent piece, commonly known as the Mercury Dime, stands as a classic example of twentieth-century American coinage. Struck in 90% silver, this dime contains 0.0715 troy ounces of precious metal. Although minted in Philadelphia, it does not bear a mint mark, which was standard practice for the facility at the time. This particular specimen survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the fine details of its elegant and thoughtful design. Created by Adolph Weinman, the obverse of the coin features a youthful representation of Liberty. She wears a winged Phrygian cap, a powerful symbol intended to represent freedom of thought. Alongside her portrait, the legible inscriptions read "IN GOD WE TRUST" and the year "1942". The reverse of the coin presents a contrasting yet harmonious pair of symbols: a fasces and an olive branch. The fasces, a bundle of rods bound around an ax, represents strength and unity, while the leafy olive branch symbolizes a desire for peace. Wrapped around these central images are the traditional inscriptions "E-PLURIBUS UNUM" and the denomination, "ONE DIME".