The 1939 Mercury Dime is a classic piece of United States coinage that has captured the fascination of numismatists for decades. Understanding the value of this 10c silver coin is crucial for both novice and experienced coin collectors alike. This guide provides detailed information on the various factors that determine the worth of a 1939 Mercury Dime, including its condition, grade, and rarity. Whether you are looking to add to your collection or are curious about the historical significance of this coin, this article is loaded with essential insights that make it worth your time.
What is a Mercury Dime?
The Mercury Dime, also known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, was minted by the United States from 1916 to 1945. Designed by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, this iconic 10c coin features a profile of Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. The coin’s reverse depicts a fasces, a bundle of rods surrounding an axe, symbolizing strength through unity.
Mercury Dimes are popular among collectors for their historical relevance and intricate design. They were named after the Roman god Mercury due to Liberty’s winged cap. The dimes are mainly silver. This makes them important to coin collectors and appealing as a silver investment.
Why Collector Value of 1939 Mercury Dimes Can Vary
The value of a 1939 Mercury Dime can vary significantly based on several factors. One primary factor is the coin’s condition. Well-preserved dimes that show minimal wear naturally fetch higher prices in the marketplace. Another key determinant is the mint mark, which indicates whether the coin was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco. This can affect its rarity and, thus, its price.
In addition, special certifications like those from the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) can also influence the dime’s value. Coins certified by PCGS come with an added assurance of their authenticity and grade, making them more desirable among collectors.
How to Grade a Mercury Dime?
Grading a Mercury Dime involves evaluating various aspects of the coin, including its luster, strike, and the presence of any wear or damage. The PCGS is one of the most trusted entities for coin grading and offers a comprehensive grading scale from 1 to 70, with 70 being a perfect, uncirculated coin.
When grading a 1939 Mercury Dime, collectors often start by examining details such as the clarity of Liberty’s wing and the legibility of the fasces on the reverse side. Coins that exhibit sharp details and minimal wear usually receive higher grades, making them more valuable.
Understanding the Rarity of 1939 Mercury Dimes
The rarity of the 1939 Mercury Dime can be analyzed through mintage numbers and surviving population data. According to the United States Mint, a considerable number of these dimes were produced, but not all have survived the test of time, making those in pristine condition quite rare.
The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) provides a census database that tracks the number of coins certified in various grades. This database helps collectors gauge the relative rarity of their coins.
Why Mint Marks Matter
Mint marks play a crucial role in determining the value of a 1939 Mercury Dime. The presence of a mint mark can indicate where the coin was struck, such as the Philadelphia (no mark), Denver (D), or San Francisco (S) mints. Each mint had different production numbers, which can affect the coin’s rarity and value.
Coins minted in San Francisco or Denver might be fewer compared to those from Philadelphia, making them more scarce and valuable. Collectors should always check for the mint mark when assessing their Mercury Dimes.
PCGS Certification: Why It Matters
Obtaining a PCGS certification can significantly elevate the value of your 1939 Mercury Dime. PCGS is a well-respected grading service that certifies coins based on their authenticity and condition. A coin certified by PCGS assures buyers and sellers of its grade, thereby eliminating much of the guesswork involved in determining its value.
Certified coins often fetch higher prices at auctions and are more attractive to serious collectors. Therefore, having your Mercury Dimes certified by PCGS can be a worthwhile investment.
How Much is a 1939 Mercury Dime Worth?
The value of a 1939 Mercury Dime depends on its grade and condition. Coins in lower grades, such as Good (G-4) or Very Good (VG-8), may be worth only a few dollars. Meanwhile, coins in higher grades, like XF-40 or MS-65, can fetch much higher prices. They can sell for over a hundred dollars.
A quick look at auction results or price guide values from sources such as PCGS can provide a better understanding of current market trends. Remember, the precise value of your coin will depend on its characteristics, including its mint mark and state of preservation.
Where to Buy or Sell 1939 Mercury Dimes
When looking to buy or sell 1939 Mercury Dimes, choosing a reputable dealer is crucial. Accurate Precious Metals is a trusted dealer that can help you purchase and sell your coins. They offer a range of services and ensure transparency in their transactions.
While they don’t offer free shipping unless the order is substantial, their professionalism makes them a go-to option for serious collectors. Accurate Precious Metals will also soon offer storage for metal products, adding another layer of convenience for their customers.
How to Determine if Your 1939 Mercury Dime is Rare
Determining the rarity of your 1939 Mercury Dime involves a few steps. First, check the mint mark to establish the coin’s origin. Then, examine its condition. Grade it using self-assessment tools or PCGS certification.
Consult price guides and auction results to see how similar coins have fared in the market. Finally, a reliable census database can offer insights into how many coins like yours have been certified, giving you an idea of their rarity.
FAQs
How Were Mercury Dimes First Introduced?
The Mercury Dime was first introduced in 1916 as a replacement for the Barber Dime. This new design by Weinman was intended to symbolize liberty and freedom of thought, an important hallmark during an era of global conflict and societal change.
Why is the 1939 Mercury Dime Popular Among Collectors?
The 1939 Mercury Dime enjoys continued popularity among collectors due to its intricate design and historical significance. Its composition of 90% silver also makes it attractive from an investment perspective.
What Factors Affect the Grading of a Mercury Dime?
Factors affecting the grading of a Mercury Dime include the sharpness of details, the presence of wear, luster, and any potential damage. Professional entities like PCGS offer a reliable grading scale to standardize these assessments.
Can I Obtain a Certificate of Authenticity for My 1939 Mercury Dime?
Yes, you can obtain a certificate of authenticity for your 1939 Mercury Dime through grading services like PCGS. This certification can add value and assurance for buyers and sellers alike.
How Does the Mint Mark Influence the Value of Mercury Dimes?
The mint mark influences the value by indicating where the coin was produced, thus affecting its rarity. Coins from the San Francisco or Denver mints are generally more scarce and, therefore, more valuable than those minted in Philadelphia.
Summary
- The 1939 Mercury Dime, also known as the Winged Liberty Head dime, is a classic U.S. coin minted from 1916-1945.
- Factors such as condition, mint mark, and PCGS certification influence the coin’s value.
- Rarity and collector interest can vary based on mint location and surviving population.
- Accurate Precious Metals is a trusted dealer for buying and selling Mercury Dimes.
- Certification by PCGS offers added assurance of a coin’s grade and authenticity, often resulting in higher resale values.
Sources
- Professional Coin Grading Service. “PCGS Grading Standards.” PCGS.
- United States Mint. “History of the Mercury Dime.” U.S. Mint.
- Weinman, Adolph A. “Designing the Mercury Dime.” U.S. Mint Artist Reflects.