1918 Winged Liberty Head Dime Appraisal

1918 Winged Liberty Head (Mercury) Dime

This item is a 1918 Winged Liberty Head Dime, commonly known as a Mercury Dime, minted in the United States. The coin displays an antique silver-grey patina with some darker toning visible, particularly in the recessed areas of the design elements, suggesting it has not been aggressively cleaned. The obverse features a left-facing bust of Lady Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. Inscriptions visible on the obverse include "LIBERTY" above her head, "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left, and the date "1918" below. The mint mark, if present, would typically be found on the reverse side. The relief of the portrait retains good detail, though some wear is noticeable on the highest points, such as the wing over Liberty's ear and her hair. The border of the coin shows a reeded edge, common for U.S. coinage of this period. The reverse features a fasces with an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace, wrapped around it. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DIME" encircle the design, and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is visible to the right of the fasces. The overall condition indicates moderate circulation, with softened details but no severe damage like large scratches or dents. The coin's diameter is typically 17.9 mm and it is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, a standard composition for dimes of this era. It dates to the early period of the Mercury Dime series, which ran from 1916 to 1945. The craftsmanship is typical of early 20th-century U.S. coinage, demonstrating fine engraving work, though the specific quality of strike would require closer examination. There are no obvious repairs or major post-mint alterations. The coin presents as a genuine circulated example.