The Mercury Dime, officially known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, is highly regarded among numismatists due to its artistic appeal and rich historical background.
This design, introduced as a replacement for the Barber dime, immediately stood out because of its elegance. Beyond its appearance, the coin is made of 90% silver, adding to its collectible and intrinsic worth. Among all years of its mintage, the 1919 Mercury dime is especially notable, particularly when it comes to its rarity and value in higher grades.
Value Breakdown for the 1919 Mercury Dime
Mint Mark
Extremely Fine
AU58 (About Uncirculated)
MS63 (Select Uncirculated)
MS66 (Gem Uncirculated)
MS67 (Superb Gem Uncirculated)
1919 No Mint Mark
$20
$60
$200 (Full Bands: $275)
$1,050 (Full Bands: $1,850)
$2,350 (Full Bands: $11,500)
1919 “D” Mint
$75
$335
$800 (Full Bands: $3,250)
$4,750 (Full Bands: $135,000)
–
1919 “S” Mint
$75
$375
$1,150 (Full Bands: $5,000)
$3,500 (Full Bands: $100,000)
$4,750 (Full Bands: $150,000)
Coin Grading for the 1919 Mercury Dime
A coin’s value is deeply influenced by its grade. Coins in uncirculated condition are far more desirable and valuable than those that have seen regular use. To determine if a 1919 Mercury dime is uncirculated, examine the coin for its original mint luster and shine.
Key details, such as Lady Liberty’s hair, cheek, and ear, should have no visible wear. The reverse should show crisp and full horizontal bands on the fasces, along with clearly defined olive leaves. These details are critical when identifying mint-state quality.
Grading Scale for Mercury Dimes
Here’s a simplified grading guide that can help evaluate the condition of a Mercury dime:
- Basal State-1: Essentially unidentifiable
- Fair
- Very Fair (4-6)
- Good (7-10)
- Very Good (12-15)
- Fine (20-30)
- Very Fine
- Extremely Fine
- About Uncirculated
- Mint State (60-70)
This scale helps determine a coin’s state and its market value more accurately.
1919 No Mint Mark Dime
In 1919, over 35 million dimes were minted in Philadelphia, making them relatively common in lower grades. Due to widespread circulation, many of these coins show signs of wear, but they still carry both historical and collectible value. A 1919 dime without a mint mark in Extremely Fine condition is typically worth about $20.
If it’s graded AU58, it may command around $60. Uncirculated coins can be much more valuable, with MS63 examples valued at $200. High-grade coins like MS66 can fetch $1,050, while MS67 pieces can go for up to $2,350. Coins with the highly desired Full Bands feature often sell for significantly more.
1919 D Mint Dime
The Denver Mint struck fewer than 10 million dimes in 1919, making these coins less common and more sought-after, especially in higher grades. Even circulated coins from this mint are more difficult to locate. In Extremely Fine condition, a 1919 D dime is worth approximately $75.
An AU58 coin can sell for about $335, while uncirculated examples graded MS63 can bring around $800. If the coin has Full Bands, the value can shoot up to $3,250. For top-tier MS66 dimes, the price can rise to $4,750, and the Full Bands variant at this grade has fetched as much as $135,000 at auction.
1919 S Mint Dime
With a mintage of just over 8.8 million coins, the 1919 S Mercury dime is the scarcest of the three varieties for that year. These coins are particularly hard to find in well-preserved condition. In Extremely Fine grade, the coin starts at about $75, and an AU58 example ranges from $110 to $375 depending on quality.
Mint-state examples command much higher prices. An MS62 coin may be worth around $825, while MS64 versions can reach up to $1,650. Coins featuring Full Bands are especially prized, with MS66 examples valued at up to $100,000 and MS67 pieces reaching as high as $150,000.
1919 Dime Errors
Certain 1919 dimes come with rare minting errors that significantly raise their value. One such error is the Doubled Die Obverse, caused by a misalignment during minting, often visible in inscriptions like “In God We Trust.” Even in lower condition, a dime with this error has sold for over $2,800.
Another rare error is the Off-Center Strike, where the design is not properly centered, leading to parts of it being cut off. A 10% off-center MS62 coin once sold for $300. An Uncentered Broadstrike error, where the coin is struck outside the collar and appears stretched, was sold for $100 in AU50 grade.
Selling Your 1919 Dime
If you’re planning to sell a 1919 Mercury dime, getting a professional appraisal is a smart first step. Many reputable platforms and dealers offer free assessments and can guide you through the selling process.
Knowing the precise condition and any unique features—such as mint marks or error types—can make a significant difference in your coin’s final selling price. Collectors often pay premiums for rare features, so ensure that the coin is properly graded and certified, especially if it’s in exceptional condition or has a recognized error.
FAQs
How much is a 1919 Mercury dime worth?
The price of a 1919 Mercury dime varies widely based on condition and rarity. In circulated condition, it may be worth as little as $2.50, while uncirculated examples in high grades can exceed $3,200. Coins with the Full Bands feature are especially valuable and can bring even higher prices.
What is the silver content in a 1919 Mercury dime?
This coin contains 90% silver and 10% copper. Its melt value is tied to the current market price of silver, which also contributes to its overall worth, even if the coin is heavily worn.
What are the most valuable 1919 Mercury dimes?
The most prized 1919 dimes are those with the Full Bands designation, particularly those in Mint State grades MS66 and MS67. Dimes from the Denver and San Francisco mints with these characteristics can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Are there any rare errors in 1919 Mercury dimes?
Yes, mint errors like Doubled Die Obverse, Off-Center Strikes, and Uncentered Broadstrikes are rare and highly desirable. These errors can cause the value of the coin to increase several times over, with some error coins selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, regardless of grade.
