The 1942 dime value is typically more significant than the face value of these coins; however, this is contingent upon their condition and lack of damage. They were minted during World War II and featured a composition altered to suit the conditions of the time.
The production of these items commenced in 1916 after Adolph A. Weinman’s design of one of the most aesthetically pleasing miniature American coins.
History Of The 1942 Dime
Specialty American coins and mercury dimes were in circulation from 1916 to 1945. They were the fifth dime design to be introduced by the U.S. Mint after the commencement of Draped Bust dime production in 1796, a mere four years after its inception.
After a quarter-century of producing Barber dimes from 1892 to 1916, the Winged Liberty Head dimes emerged triumphant. Oddly enough, Charles E. Barber, the designer of preceding dimes, submitted a proposal for the new coin; however, Weinman’s concept needed to be more aesthetically pleasing.
Being the most accomplished designer in the competition, he was granted the privilege of designing both sides of the coin. These exquisite items, manufactured between 1916 and 1945, remain in great demand among collectors.
Mercury dimes from 1942 were produced in large quantities, with the majority entering circulation. The coins made more than 200 million, constituting the second-highest in the entire series.
Even though most 1942 dimes suffered from a feeble strike, those featuring Full Bands feature vivid details. Moreover, their association with the dreadful era of war renders them exceptionally coveted by collectors.
Features Of The 1942 Dime
Prominent for creating the Winged Liberty Head dime, arguably the most aesthetically pleasing American coin ever, Adolph A. Weinman was a gifted designer. From 1916 until 1945, the United States Mint produced this exquisite series of silver dimes; the initial Roosevelt silver dimes entered circulation in 1946.
1. The Obverse Of The 1942 Dime
1942’s conflict Mercury dimes are silver coins that bear the obverse image of Lady Liberty. Her peculiar moniker arose from the misunderstanding that Americans believed she was a Roman deity due to her distinctive cap featuring two wings. The term “Mercury dime” is more commonly used by collectors than the official coin designation.
Some authorities believe that the woman Adolph Weinman used as a model for the Winged Liberty Head dime was Elsie Stevens, although he never officially identified her. Her profile is visible with a pileus, an ancient Greek headgear, adorning her left side.
When incorporating wings into the headwear, the designer exhibited “liberty of thought.” He positioned this word above Lady Liberty’s head to accentuate his affection for her. The lower portion of the coin contains the text, which consists of:
- The era is 1942.
- A.W. is the initials.
- The motto is “IN GOD WE TRUST
2. The Reverse Of The 1942 Dime
The reverse of the Mercury dimes is exquisitely adorned and replete with symbolism that is significant to every American. Weinman effectively integrated contemporary American symbols with a distinctively Roman motif.
Fasces are prominently displayed in the center and are fastened with sturdy leather straps. Obligatory equipment for the retainers and attendants of Roman magistrates, this bundle of sticks atop which an axe was affixed symbolized both war and justice.
An eminent olive branch entwined with the fasces signifies an endeavor to achieve harmony. The denomination is inscribed beneath the new nation’s name, engraved along the upper rim, and separated by two stars.
The Latin motto PLURIBUS UNUM is a legal requirement for all American coins. It symbolizes the union and formation of the United States from many pre-existing states.
The mint mark appears between the corresponding letters of the word O.N.E. and the flame on dimes produced in two mints.
3. Other Features Of The 1942 Dime
The silver dime of 1942 is an exact 0.053-inch (1.35 mm) thick, 118-reed-edged ten-cent coin. 90% of the silver, which weighs 0.072 troy ounces (2.24 g), is contained within its 0.080 troy ounces (2.5 g) mass. The diameter of this coin is 0.705 inches (17.91 mm).
What Is A 1942 Dime Worth?
The year 1942 might have been relatively unremarkable in terms of the Mercury dime if not for a die variation known as the 1942/1 overdate variant, which caused quite a stir in the numismatic community.
This scarce variant, which was produced by imprinting two obverse dies with a 1941 Mercury dime hub and then a 1942 one, is the most popular in the series and is, in fact, relatively uncommon. Adding to the complexity and expense for Mercury dime coins enthusiasts, this variation was produced at two mints: Denver and Philadelphia.
Apart from the overdates, the sole noteworthy circumstance about 1942 Mercury dimes was their designation as the final date in the series to produce proof specimens. The U.S. Mint shifted its attention to regular-strike coinage and, subsequently, medals intended for service members returning from their overseas duties during World War II.
The following are mintage values and figures for Mercury dimes from 1942:
- 1942, 205,410,000 minted; $4
- 1942/1, mintage unknown; $1,200
- 1942 proof, 22,329; $400
- 1942-D, 60,740,000; $4
- 1942/1-D, mintage unknown; $1,200
- 1942-S, 49,300,000; $4
*Extremely Fine-40-grade coins are assigned the specified values unless otherwise specified.
MS-65 specimens of the 1942/1 dime from Philadelphia are considerably more challenging to obtain than overdated Mercury dimes of comparable quality from Denver, as Mercury dime aficionados will attest; the former fetches approximately $15,000, while the latter costs around $8,000. At roughly $30 each, gem specimens of the standard-issue 1942 Mercury dimes are considerably more affordable.
Grading Determines 1942 Dime Value
The value of a 1942 dime in grades ranging from “Good” to “Extremely Fine” is illustrated on the chart. Dealers and collectors are perpetually looking for the finest preserved and highest-quality coins. They evaluate each individual’s state and designate a “grade.” The condition value of your coins on the chart is determined by comparing them to the images.
1. Uncirculated: Mercury dime that was never circulating is uncirculated. Untouched since its minting, it exudes a brilliant sheen. While your coin may exhibit toning in its current state, there is no discernible deterioration on its surface.
A continuous, radiant sheen traverses the surface when subjected to illumination while rotating. Uncirculated coins are gleaming with a quality that elevates them to the highest value among dime coins from 1942.
2. Extremely Fine: Collectors are particularly intrigued by numerous Mercury dimes that are in pristine condition. The minor even wear results in a predominantly pointed and precise design.
Although the hair above Liberty’s eyes is visibly worn, the wing details show signs of smoothing. Eventually, the value of 1942 dimes in this state will exceed their silver content.
3. Acceptable: The entire surface is visibly worn, which detracts from the aesthetic appeal of the minor details of the design.
The hair details on the obverse are blended, while the leaf details on the reverse are flattened. Even at this point in its deterioration, your ancient coin retains an attractive appearance.
4. Good: The grade of this dime is just beginning to merge with the lettering and date on the rim. Although the Liberty sculpture lacks all design elements, including visible hair and wings, she is still precisely outlined. The low value of dime coins from 1942 is that collectors endeavor to acquire more exquisite examples.
Rare Over Date 1942 Dime Value
The mint produced an extremely uncommon Mercury dime in 1942 by inadvertently punching the number “2” over a “1” when applying the date onto a die. The date on coins struck with this die is unambiguous: 2 over 1. Limited quantities were issued into circulation; upon their discovery, collectors recognized the scarcity, and the coin’s value promptly escalated.
An example in this condition, depicted with mild, even wear, was sold at auction by David Lawrence Rare Coins for $634. Solid demand exists because numerous Mercury dime collectors regard the coin as an integral component of a complete set. The market value of an uncirculated 1942/41 frequently exceeds $1500.
A close-up of the data demonstrates that the numerals were overpunched. Many formerly circulated for extended periods and became significantly worn, making them susceptible to discovery in any box of ancient coins. It is possible to give your 1942 dimes another examination using a magnifying glass.
In conclusion, the 1942 dime is a historical artifact and not merely a piece of silver. Whether you are an amateur collector or an experienced numismatist, the Mercury Dime series, particularly the 1942 issues, and their varieties provides an intriguing insight into the history of the United States and the complexities of coin collecting.
Due to its historical and monetary significance, the 1942 dime continues to be a highly coveted and valuable addition to collections, thanks to its iconic design and uncommon overdate errors.
Thank you for reading…..
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