1939-D Repunched Mintmark WRPM-005

Description

Cataloged as WRPM-005 in the Wexler reference system, this 1939 Denver Mint Mercury Dime displays a repunched mint mark where the D over D positioning reveals a secondary impression of the mint mark. Collectors should exercise careful attention when attributing this variety, as WRPM-003 and WRPM-005 are very similar and easily confused with each other — the critical difference lies in subtle variations of the primary mint mark position, with WRPM-003 sitting slightly further north than WRPM-005. This fine distinction demands side-by-side comparison or precise photographic overlay for confident identification. Adolph Weinman's iconic "Mercury" Dime — properly the Winged Liberty Head, depicting Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap symbolizing freedom of thought — was struck in 90% silver from 1916 through 1945. The Denver Mint produced over 24 million dimes in 1939, and repunched mint marks are characteristic of an era when individual letter punches were hand-applied to working dies. Each die received its mint mark separately, and slight misalignment between initial and corrective punches created the doubled impressions that RPM collectors prize today.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler Cross References: None known Comments: WRPM-003 and WRPM-005 are very similar and can easily be confused. There are subtle differences in the position of the primary mint mark with WRPM-003 slightly further north than WRPM-005.
• None known Comments: WRPM-003 and WRPM-005 are very similar and can easily be confused. There are subtle differences in the position of the primary mint mark with WRPM-003 slightly further north than WRPM-005.; Wexler Variety ID: 1939-D 10¢ WRPM-005
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References