1941-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-002

Description

Bearing the MMS-002 mintmark style designation, the 1941-S Mercury Dime RPM-002 shows an S/S repunching displaced west — the secondary impression shifted left of the final S. The MMS-002 classification identifies the specific S punch used on this die, distinguishing it from other punch shapes employed at San Francisco during the same production year. Different physical punches wore down and were periodically replaced, each leaving subtly different letter forms that researchers cataloged into numbered groups. The westward displacement appears as extra metal extending from the left curves of the S, where the initial impression was placed before being corrected. The 1941-S predates American entry into World War II — San Francisco was still a peacetime facility when these dies were prepared, though the city would soon take on enormous military significance. Weinman's design is struck in 90% silver on a 17.9mm planchet with the S on the reverse left of the fasces. Note the MMS-002 punch style when comparing against RPM-003 and RPM-004, which share the same mintmark style.

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