Semi-Numismatic

1942-S Mercury Dime BU

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Struck during a pivotal year in mid-century history, this ten-cent piece from the San Francisco Mint showcases one of the most celebrated designs in United States coinage. Known widely as the Mercury Dime, the coin is composed of 90 percent silver, containing approximately 0.0715 troy ounces of the precious metal. Kept in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, it retains the crisp details and luster from when it first left the coining press. The obverse features a youthful depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, a symbol traditionally representing freedom of thought. Surrounding her portrait are the inscriptions "IN GOD WE TRUST" and the year "1942". On the reverse, the design presents a fasces, an ancient symbol of strength and authority, entwined with an olive branch representing peace. The reverse also displays the mint mark "S" for San Francisco, alongside the legends "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and the denomination "ONE DIME". Designed by Adolph Weinman, this coin is a remarkable example of American numismatic artistry. The combination of its historic wartime date, high silver purity, and exceptional state of preservation makes it a captivating subject for study and appreciation.