1940 Mercury Dime
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$800 MS68 10-19-2022 eBay
Description
A dime from the Philadelphia Mint, the 1940 Mercury Dime belongs to the Mercury Dimes 1916-1945 series. The U.S. Mint produced 65.3 million examples, making this the highest mintage among 3 variants, accounting for 60% of the year's production. The obverse features young Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom of thought — often called the "Mercury" dime despite not depicting the Roman god and the reverse displays a Roman fasces — a bundle of rods with an axe — entwined with an olive branch, symbolizing strength through unity tempered by peace. Struck during the Great Depression, when mintages dropped sharply and the United States abandoned the gold standard in 1933. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $7 to $42 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #5022.
External References
Error Varieties(2)
1940 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001
1940 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001
Other Strike Types in This Series
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