Dime Appraisal

1918 Mercury Dime (Winged Liberty Head Dime)

This item is a 1918 Mercury Dime, also officially known as the Winged Liberty Head Dime. It is a silver coin, circular in shape, depicting the obverse (front) and reverse (back) sides. The primary material is likely 90% silver and 10% copper, consistent with US dimes minted during this period. The color is a dull, metallic gray with darker toning in the recessed areas, indicating natural tarnishing and age. On the obverse, a left-facing profile of Liberty is prominently featured, wearing a winged Phrygian cap, mistakenly associated with the Roman god Mercury. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed around the top rim, though parts are slightly worn. Below Liberty's chin, the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is clearly visible, and the mint date "1918" appears at the bottom. The designer's initial 'W' (for Adolph A. Weinman) is present near Liberty's neck. The general condition of the obverse shows moderate wear, with some loss of detail on the cap's wings and hair, but major features remain distinct. There are no significant scratches or gouges visible, suggesting a circulated coin in good to very good condition. On the reverse, a fasces (a bundle of rods with an axe projecting) is depicted vertically in the center, symbolizing unity and strength. An olive branch entwines the fasces, representing peace. The denomination "ONE DIME" is clearly legible at the bottom. Around the top rim, the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" is visible, with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" positioned to the right of the fasces. The mint mark, if present, would be located at the bottom of the fasces, though it is not distinctly visible in this image. The reverse also exhibits similar moderate wear and toning as the obverse. This coin belongs to the 'Winged Liberty Head Dime' series, which was minted from 1916 to 1945. The quality of craftsmanship is typical for U.S. coinage of the early 20th century. The fields appear relatively smooth with some minor bag marks or abrasions consistent with a coin that has been in circulation. The rim is mostly intact on both sides, with some evidence of minor wear.