The 1918-S Mercury Dime is a valuable and sought-after coin among collectors. Minted in San Francisco in 1918, this dime is part of the Mercury Dime series, which ran from 1916 to 1945. Known for its elegant design and historical significance, the 1918-S dime is a key date for collectors, especially in higher grades.
History of the Mercury Dime
The Mercury Dime series was first introduced in 1916, designed by Adolph A. Weinman. The design features Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. While the coin is often referred to as the “Mercury Dime,” Liberty is the figure depicted, not the Roman god Mercury.
The 1918-S dime was minted during World War I, a time when the United States was deeply involved in global conflict. The San Francisco Mint produced 19,300,000 dimes that year, but finding one in good condition today is rare due to circulation and wear over time.
Key Features of the 1918-S Mercury Dime
Design
- Obverse: Liberty with a winged cap, symbolizing freedom.
- Reverse: A bundle of fasces, symbolizing unity and strength, with an olive branch for peace.
Mint Mark
- Located on the reverse, to the right of the fasces, with an “S” for the San Francisco Mint.
Why Is the 1918-S Dime Valuable?
The 1918-S Mercury Dime is considered valuable because of its historical context, its scarcity in high grades, and its intricate design. Coins in excellent condition (higher grades like MS-65 and above) can fetch high prices at auction. The value can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the condition.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1918-S Mercury Dime |
| Mint Location | San Francisco Mint (S Mint Mark) |
| Year of Minting | 1918 |
| Material | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Design | Liberty (obverse) with winged cap, fasces (reverse) |
| Mintage | Approximately 19,300,000 coins minted |
| Rarity | Relatively rare in high grades, especially with Full Bands |
| Value Range | Several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on condition |
| Factors Influencing Value | Condition (grade), Full Bands, rarity, strike quality, historical significance |
| Key Feature | Full Bands on the reverse fasces, indicating better strike and higher value |
| Historical Context | Coin minted during World War I, adding historical significance to its value |
| Popular Collectors’ Market | Numismatic auctions, coin dealers, online marketplaces |
| Important Considerations | Condition of the coin, presence of Full Bands, and professional grading for accurate pricing |
| Best Selling Platforms | Online auctions, coin shows, numismatic dealers |
| Notable Auction Records | High-quality examples with Full Bands can fetch thousands of dollars |
What to Look For When Collecting
When searching for a 1918-S Mercury Dime, pay attention to the following:
- Grade: Higher-grade coins are more valuable. Look for coins with minimal wear and clear details.
- Strike Quality: San Francisco-minted coins from this period sometimes have weaker strikes. A well-struck example is more desirable.
- Full Bands: A highly sought-after feature is the “Full Bands” on the reverse, meaning the horizontal bands on the fasces are fully visible and not worn down.
How to Determine the Value of a 1918-S Mercury Dime
The value of your 1918-S dime depends on several factors:
- Condition: Coins in better condition are worth more.
- Full Bands: Coins with full bands are especially valuable.
- Market Demand: Coin values can fluctuate based on collector demand.
FAQs
What is the 1918-S Mercury Dime?
The 1918-S Mercury Dime is a silver coin minted in San Francisco in 1918. It features Liberty wearing a winged cap and is part of the Mercury Dime series, minted from 1916 to 1945.
Why is the 1918-S Mercury Dime so valuable?
The 1918-S dime is valuable due to its rarity, historical context, and condition. Well-preserved dimes, especially those with full details on the fasces (Full Bands), are highly sought after by collectors.
How can I tell if I have a 1918-S Mercury Dime?
You can identify the 1918-S Mercury Dime by the date (1918) on the front of the coin and the “S” mint mark, located on the reverse to the right of the fasces.
What are Full Bands, and why are they important?
Full Bands refer to the horizontal bands on the fasces on the reverse side of the coin. If these bands are fully visible and not worn down, the coin is considered more valuable.
What factors influence the value of a 1918-S Mercury Dime?
The value of the 1918-S dime is influenced by its condition (grade), the presence of Full Bands, strike quality, and overall rarity. Coins in mint condition can fetch a high price at auction.
The 1918-S Mercury Dime is a fascinating and historically rich coin that continues to intrigue collectors. Whether you are an experienced collector or just starting, owning a high-grade 1918-S Mercury Dime can be a significant addition to any collection.
