The 1919 Mercury Dime, also known as the Winged Liberty Head Dime, is one of the most iconic and valuable coins in American numismatics. Loved by both seasoned collectors and casual hobbyists, this tiny silver coin has fetched auction prices as high as $150,000, thanks to its rarity, rich history, and stunning design.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 1919 Mercury Dime—including why it’s so popular, how to identify valuable versions, and what yours might be worth today.
Why Is the 1919 Mercury Dime So Valuable?
First minted in 1916, the Mercury Dime replaced the Barber Dime and introduced a more artistic, modern design. Sculpted by Adolph A. Weinman, the obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought—which led to the coin’s nickname, “Mercury.”
Collectors are drawn to the 1919 Mercury Dime for several reasons:
- 90% silver content, making it desirable for both collectors and investors
- Unique and elegant design that stands out in U.S. coin history
- Scarcity in high grades, especially with Full Bands (FB) details on the reverse
1919 Mercury Dime Value by Mint Mark and Grade
The value of a 1919 Mercury Dime varies widely depending on its mint mark and condition. Coins with Full Bands—strong horizontal lines on the fasces on the reverse—are particularly rare and valuable.
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| Mint Mark | Extremely Fine (XF) | AU58 | MS63 | MS66 | MS67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Mint (Philadelphia) | $20 | $60 | $200 (FB: $275) | $1,050 (FB: $1,850) | $2,350 (FB: $11,500) |
| D (Denver) | $75 | $335 | $800 (FB: $3,250) | $4,750 (FB: $135,000) | – |
| S (San Francisco) | $75 | $375 | $1,150 (FB: $5,000) | $3,500 (FB: $100,000) | $4,750 (FB: $150,000) |
How to Grade Your 1919 Mercury Dime
Grading is crucial when determining the value of your dime. A coin’s condition can mean the difference between a melt-value piece and a six-figure treasure.
Key Traits of a High-Grade 1919 Mercury Dime:
- Full luster and no signs of wear
- Crisp detail in Liberty’s hair, ear, and cheek
- Well-defined Full Bands on the fasces
- Sharp olive leaves on the reverse
Basic Grading Scale:
- Good (G) to Very Fine (VF) – Noticeable wear, but design is visible
- Extremely Fine (XF) – Light wear on high points
- About Uncirculated (AU) – Nearly mint, minimal marks
- Mint State (MS60–MS70) – No wear; graded based on strike, luster, and eye appeal
The Three Variants of the 1919 Mercury Dime
1. 1919 No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)
- Over 35 million minted
- Common in lower grades
- Full Bands MS67 examples can fetch over $11,000
2. 1919-D Mercury Dime (Denver)
- Mintage: ~9.9 million
- Rare in Mint State
- Full Bands MS66 coins have sold for up to $135,000
3. 1919-S Mercury Dime (San Francisco)
- Mintage: ~8.8 million
- Hardest to find with Full Bands
- MS67 FB examples have reached a jaw-dropping $150,000
Valuable 1919 Mercury Dime Errors to Watch For
Error coins can significantly boost your 1919 Mercury Dime’s value. Here are a few rare varieties:
- Doubled Die Obverse: Letters appear doubled (e.g., “In God We Trust”) — sold for $2,800
- Off-Center Strike: Misaligned strike creates partial design — 10% off-center in MS62 sold for $300
- Broadstrike Error: Coin struck outside collar, expanding its shape — AU50 version sold for $100
Selling Your 1919 Mercury Dime: Tips to Maximize Value
Before selling, it’s highly recommended to have your coin professionally graded by trusted services like PCGS or NGC. This ensures authenticity and often boosts resale value.
Where to Sell:
- Certified coin dealers
- Online auctions like eBay or Heritage Auctions
- Coin forums or Facebook groups (exercise caution)
FAQs About the 1919 Mercury Dime
Q: How much is a 1919 Mercury Dime worth?
A: Values range from $2.50 for a worn example to over $150,000 for a rare Full Bands MS67 coin.
Q: What is the 1919 Mercury Dime made of?
A: It contains 90% silver and 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams.
Q: Which 1919 Mercury Dimes are the rarest?
A: Full Bands examples from the Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) mints in MS66+ grades are the most sought after.
Q: Do error dimes increase value?
A: Yes! Errors like doubled dies or off-center strikes can dramatically increase a coin’s market price.
Final Thoughts: Is That Old 1919 Mercury Dime in Your Drawer Worth a Fortune?
The 1919 Mercury Dime is far more than pocket change—it’s a piece of American history that could be worth thousands, even six figures. Whether it’s the dazzling silver shine, the elegant design, or the rarity of a Full Bands strike, this dime continues to captivate collectors across the U.S.
If you think you’ve found one, don’t clean it—get it professionally evaluated. That humble little dime might just hold a life-changing value.
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