Check your pocket change! A dime sold for a staggering $156,000 at auction in 2019. The coin’s exceptional value was due to its date and a rare design detail.
The 1919 Mercury Dime – A Collector’s Dream
The dime in question was a 1919 Mercury Dime, minted in Denver, and auctioned through Heritage Auctions in January 2019.
Often called the Winged Liberty Head Dime, the obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. This design is frequently mistaken for the Roman god Mercury, leading to its nickname, the Mercury Dime.
The reverse of the coin showcases olive branches, a representation of peace, and a fasces, an ancient Roman symbol of unity and strength.
Why Was It Worth So Much?
The value of the 1919 Mercury Dime was driven by several factors:
- Full Bands Designation:
- The fasces on the coin’s reverse includes horizontal bands that must show full separation and clarity to earn the Full Bands designation.
- This particular dime displayed exceptional detail, a rarity for coins minted in Denver during 1919, which often lacked sharp strikes.
- Mint State 66 Grading:
- The coin was uncirculated and in near-perfect condition, with no signs of handling wear.
- Its high grade made it a standout among similar coins, most of which were heavily circulated and poorly preserved.
- Rarity:
- Nearly 10 million 1919 Mercury Dimes were minted in Denver, but very few remain in such pristine condition.
- Only five examples of the Full Bands 1919-D dimes have been certified by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service). None have been graded higher, further boosting its desirability.
- Historical Significance:
- The 1919-D dime is a key date for Mercury Dimes and is highly sought after by collectors.
Why You Should Check Your Change
If you own a 1919 Mercury Dime, examine it carefully:
- Look for the Denver Mint mark (D) below the olive branches on the reverse.
- Check for Full Bands clarity on the fasces.
- Assess its condition—coins with minimal wear have significantly higher value.
Shiny Fortunes in Your Pocket
Rare coins like the 1919 Mercury Dime prove that a small piece of change could be worth a fortune. Even if your dime doesn’t fetch $156,000, other rare coins could still hold considerable value.
Start paying close attention to your coins. Who knows? You might just stumble upon the next treasure in your pocket change!
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