1942-S 10C Mercury Dime
The 1942-S Mercury Dime, minted in San Francisco, is a fascinating piece within the Mercury Dime series that ran from 1916 to 1945. Known for its artistic “Winged Liberty” design by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, the coin is often mistaken for a depiction of the Roman god Mercury, which is where its nickname derives from. As for the 1942-S variant, it is a significant coin, not necessarily for its rarity but due to its historical context during World War II and its appeal to collectors.
Mint and Mintage Details
- Mint: San Francisco
- Mintage: Approximately 49,300,000 pieces were struck, indicating a relatively high production run compared to other dates in the series.
- PCGS Number: 5045, as recorded by PCGS CoinFacts.
Rarity and Collectibility
While not considered rare in a general sense due to its high mintage, the 1942-S Mercury Dime garners numismatic interest due to its historical backdrop and the quality of coins minted during the wartime period. Circulated examples are easily found, but finding higher-grade pieces can be more challenging and rewarding for collectors. Notably, coins in Mint State (MS) conditions, especially those graded MS66 or higher, are of significant interest.
Value and Market Performance
Market values for the 1942-S Mercury Dime vary widely based on condition. Circulated grades are widely accessible and are generally valued at a few dollars, often aligning closely with the silver content of 0.07234 troy ounces. In contrast, uncirculated coins can command higher premiums. For example: - MS65 : Typically fetches between $30 to $50. - MS66: This grade might see proceeds in auctions ranging up to around $100 or more. - MS67: These coins are highly sought after, with prices that can climb above $250.
Exact Sales and Auction Records
High-grade examples of the 1942-S Mercury Dime have seen interesting sales dynamics, influenced by collector demand and the coin's condition: - MS67 Full Bands (FB): Superior specimens with the Full Bands designation — where the bands on the fasces are fully detailed and separated — can sell for even higher amounts, highlighting their desirability among serious numismatists. Such examples have reached auction sales of $1,000 or more. Recent auction results have underscored the coin's appeal, with pristine examples consistently achieving strong premiums. Collectors seeking investment potential often target these high-grade coins, particularly those with Full Bands, as they present both a historical treasure and a financially rewarding numismatic investment.
Historical Context and Numismatist Perspective
The Mercury Dime holds a unique place in American numismatic history as it was issued during a time of global conflict and economic change. The 1942-S, produced amidst the turmoil of World War II, serves as a tangible reminder of that era's challenges and triumphs. From a numismatist perspective, this coin provides insight into the minting technologies and artistic aspirations of the United States Mint during the early 20th century. Collectors often regard the Mercury Dime series as a testament to American resilience and artistry. Each piece, like the 1942-S, tells a story beyond its face value, capturing an epoch where every coin was a part of everyday life, carrying with it the history and pride of the nation. Its enduring allure underscores its place in the pantheon of American coinage.
