1942/41 Overdate Mercury Dime NGC & CAC Certified XF40

Properly known as the “Winged Liberty” dime in the Mint’s official description, this popular coin features a stunning example of a youthful Lady Liberty on the obverse wearing a winged Phrygian cap to symbolize freedom of thought. However, this was publicly confused almost immediately after its release in October of 1916 with a likeness of the Roman God Mercury, and thus this coin’s enduring colloquial name was born. The reverse features the fasces carried by Roman magisterial lictors and symbolizes power and justice, as well as strength in numbers, and is accompanied by an olive branch of peace.

The Mercury dime spanned an era that witnessed two World Wars, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and the entirety of Prohibition. It continues to be one of the most beloved coins in American history, more than 70 years after its last mintage in 1947. The immensely popular 1942 over 1941 variety was discovered and announced in 1943, yet few have survived in Mint State. The wartime economy meant that coins went into circulation within days or weeks of striking, and the only unworn survivors are those found by chance within rolls that were set aside during 1942.

Coins are struck from dies, which themselves are struck from hubs. Dies are normally “hubbed” twice, with annealing between impressions. When this particular obverse die was prepared, it received one impression from a 1941-dated hub and a second from one dated 1942, resulting in the 2 overlapping dates. The inclusion of this variety within popular coin albums during the 1960s forever cemented its lasting appeal. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in a plush-lined box with a certificate of authenticity.