$1 FV 90% Silver Mercury Dimes – XF

A Winged Liberty for Turbulent Times

As the world plunged into the chaos of World War I, the United States Mint embarked on a mission to revitalize its coinage. In 1916, a new dime design emerged, capturing the spirit of a nation on the brink of global conflict. Sculptor Adolph A. Weinman's creation, officially known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, would soon captivate the public imagination and earn its enduring nickname: the Mercury dime.

Weinman's design featured a young Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. The striking imagery, with its classical roots and modern flair, resonated deeply with Americans grappling with their role in a changing world. Despite the coin's feminine subject, the wings on Liberty's cap led to a widespread misidentification with the Roman god Mercury, messenger of the gods and patron of commerce.

This confusion, far from detracting from the coin's appeal, only added to its mystique. The Mercury dime became a pocket-sized emblem of American ideals, circulating through a nation that would soon send its sons to fight on European soil. As the coin changed hands in marketplaces and movie theaters, it served as a tangible reminder of the liberty for which America stood.

The reverse of the coin further reinforced these ideals. A fasces, an ancient Roman symbol of authority, stood central, flanked by an olive branch. This juxtaposition of strength and peace encapsulated America's stance as it prepared to enter the global conflict – ready for war, but hopeful for harmony.

For nearly three decades, the Mercury dime would serve as a constant companion to Americans through some of the nation's most tumultuous times. It jingled in pockets during the Roaring Twenties, became a precious commodity during the Great Depression, and rallied the home front during World War II. When production ceased in 1945, the Mercury dime had become more than just currency; it was a piece of American history.

Today, these dimes stand as tangible links to a transformative era in American history. Each coin, with its intricate design and silver content, offers collectors and investors a chance to hold a piece of that legacy in their hands. The Mercury dime remains a testament to artistic beauty, historical significance, and the enduring value of precious metals.

A Design of Liberty and Strength

The obverse of the Mercury dime showcases Weinman's masterful artistry. Liberty's profile is rendered with classical grace, her features strong yet feminine. The iconic winged cap, reminiscent of the headgear worn by the Greek god Hermes, dominates the design. "LIBERTY" arches above, while the year of minting and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" flank Liberty's neck.

On the reverse, the fasces takes center stage, embodying unity and strength. An olive branch intertwines with this ancient symbol, creating a powerful visual metaphor for America's dual commitment to peace and readiness. "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DIME" encircle these central elements, while "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of Many, One) sits to the right, completing this eloquent design.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.715 oz
• Grade: XF – Extremely Fine
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: Various
• Obverse: Winged Liberty Head (popularly known as Mercury)
• Reverse: Fasces with intertwined olive branch

A Numismatic Treasure with Enduring Appeal

The $1 FV 90% Silver Mercury Dimes in Extremely Fine condition offer a compelling opportunity for both collectors and investors. These coins represent a perfect fusion of historical significance, artistic merit, and precious metal content. With a high silver purity of 90%, they provide a tangible hedge against economic uncertainty, while their iconic design ensures lasting collector appeal.

The Extremely Fine grade guarantees that these coins retain sharp details, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate Weinman's artistry fully. As relics of pre-1965 U.S. coinage, Mercury dimes are increasingly scarce, potentially driving future value appreciation. Their small size and fractional silver content offer flexibility for collectors and investors alike, allowing for easy acquisition and liquidation.

By acquiring these Mercury dimes, you're not just purchasing silver – you're investing in a piece of American numismatic heritage. Each coin tells a story of a nation in transition, of artistic innovation, and of enduring values. Whether you're expanding a collection or diversifying an investment portfolio, these Mercury dimes offer a unique blend of historical richness and precious metal security.