1921-D Mercury Dime (Winged Liberty Silver Dime)
The 1921-D Mercury dime is one of the key dates in the Mercury dime series, featuring the iconic Winged Liberty design. Minted by the U.S. Mint in Denver, it is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance. The coin's scarcity, particularly in higher grades, makes it a prized possession for numismatists.
Historical context
Designed by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, the Mercury dime, also known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, was first minted in 1916 and remained in production until 1945. The 1921-D issue is especially rare, as it was struck in lower quantities compared to other years, making it a key date for collectors. Only about 1.2 million 1921-D dimes were minted, adding to its desirability.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Size | 17.9 millimeters |
| Denomination | 0.10 USD |
| Gross Weight | 2.5 grams |
| Actual Silver Weight | 0.0723 troy ounces of silver |
| Fineness/Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Diameter | 17.9 millimeters |
| Thickness | 1.35 millimeters |
| Specific Gravity | ~10.34 |
| Numismatic Price Range | $200 - $3000 |
Coin description
The obverse of the 1921-D Mercury dime features the profile of Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. The reverse shows a fasces, an ancient symbol of unity and strength, wrapped in olive branches. The design is well-preserved on most higher-grade examples, with sharp details visible on the vertical stripes of the fasces and minor contact marks blending into the design. A unique scratch on Liberty’s cheek led to the nickname “Scarface” for some specimens.
Cultural and
numismatic significance
The 1921-D Mercury dime holds significant value for collectors due to its rarity and beautiful design. It is part of a popular series that numismatists often strive to complete, but because of its low mintage, it is difficult to find in high-grade conditions. Its design is admired for its symbolism of liberty and strength, making it not just a numismatic treasure but a cultural artifact of the early 20th-century United States.
Numismatic value
The value of the 1921-D Mercury dime varies widely depending on its condition. Lower-grade coins (Good) can sell for several hundred dollars, while high-grade examples (Extremely Fine to Uncirculated) can reach thousands. An AU-50 specimen can fetch anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more, depending on market demand and specific coin details.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of your dimes, including their silver content (for pre-1965 dimes) and their numismatic value. We provide a detailed breakdown of how we determine your offer so that you can be fully informed and confident in the price you receive.
Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending Draped Bust dimes, Mercury dimes, or Roosevelt dimes, your coins are insured throughout the entire shipping process, ensuring that your valuable items are protected and safe.
We buy all types of U.S. dimes, including Draped Bust, Liberty Seated, Barber, Mercury, and Roosevelt dimes, and other collectible dimes. Whether your dimes are valuable for their silver content or their collectibility, we’re interested in making you a competitive offer.
There’s no obligation to sell your dimes after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We provide a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your coins. You can choose to sell when you’re ready, with no pressure from us.
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