The 1920-D Mercury Dime is a captivating piece of American numismatic history that has garnered the attention of collectors and investors alike.
Minted in Denver, this coin is part of the beloved Mercury Dime series, which was produced from 1916 to 1945. The 1920-D edition stands out for several reasons, including its mintage, design intricacies, and market value.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the 1920-D Mercury Dime, covering its history, design, grading, and current market value.
History and Mintage Of 1920-D Mercury Dime
The 1920-D Mercury Dime was minted at the Denver Mint, with a total mintage of 19,171,000 coins. The year 1920 was a significant one for the Denver Mint, which underwent major renovations to modernize its facilities, leading to the production of various coinage, including the Mercury Dime.
The 1920-D edition is known for its relatively large mintage compared to other dates, yet it still holds significant value in higher grades due to its scarcity in top condition.
Design and Composition
Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the Mercury Dime features the Winged Liberty Head on the obverse, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury, hence the coin’s popular name. The reverse showcases a fasces—a bundle of rods with an axe, symbolizing strength and unity—along with an olive branch, representing peace.
- Designer: Adolph A. Weinman
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Diameter: 17.9 mm
- Mint Mark: “D” located on the reverse side
Grading and Value
The value of the 1920-D Mercury Dime varies significantly based on its condition. Coins in lower grades (Good-4 to Very Fine-20) are relatively affordable, often ranging from $5 to $33. However, coins in higher grades, especially those with Full Split Bands (FSB), command much higher prices.
For example, an MS-65 graded coin can be worth around $690, while an MS-67 grade can fetch upwards of $3,775. The Full Split Bands designation, indicating a sharply struck coin with fully visible horizontal lines on the fasces, adds a premium to the coin’s value.
Market Performance and Notable Sales
The market for the 1920-D Mercury Dime is robust, with significant premiums paid for high-grade examples. For instance, an MS-67 graded coin recently sold for $3,775. The rarity of high-grade coins, especially those with the FSB designation, contributes to their desirability among collectors.
Key Factors Affecting Value
- Condition: Higher grades significantly increase the coin’s value.
- Full Split Bands (FSB): This designation indicates a well-struck coin and is highly sought after.
- Market Demand: Collector interest and market trends can influence prices.
1920-D Mercury Dime Value Table
| Grade | Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good-4 | $5 |
| Very Fine-20 | $33 |
| Almost Uncirculated-50 | $63 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $213 |
| MS-65 | $690 |
| MS-66 | $1,508 |
| MS-67 | $3,775 |
Conclusion
1920-D Mercury Dime holds a special place in the realm of coin collecting due to its historical significance, intricate design, and the varying values it commands based on its condition.
While it is relatively common in lower grades, high-grade examples, particularly those with the Full Split Bands designation, are highly sought after and can fetch premium prices.
For collectors, this coin represents both a piece of American history and a valuable addition to any collection, making it a worthy pursuit for both novice and seasoned numismatists.
FAQ’s
1. What makes the 1920-D Mercury Dime special?
The 1920-D Mercury Dime is notable for its relatively large mintage but is highly valued in higher grades, especially with the Full Split Bands (FSB) designation.
2. How can I identify the Full Split Bands on a 1920-D Mercury Dime?
Full Split Bands refer to the horizontal bands on the fasces on the coin’s reverse side. For a coin to qualify, these bands must be fully visible and not merged.
3. What is the melt value of a 1920-D Mercury Dime?
The melt value, based on its silver content, is approximately $2.11, but collectible value far exceeds this amount.
4. Why is the 1920-D Mercury Dime more valuable in higher grades?
High-grade coins are rarer and exhibit better preservation, making them more desirable to collectors and investors.
5. Where can I buy a 1920-D Mercury Dime?
These coins can be purchased from online marketplaces, coin dealers, and auctions, with prices varying based on condition and grading.
References
- “1920-D Mercury Dime: A Collector’s Guide.” CoinWeek.
- “1920 D Mercury Dime Value.” APMEX.”
- 1920 D Mercury Dime Pricing Guide.” Greysheet.”
- 1920 Mercury Dime Values and Prices.” CoinValues.”
- 1920 Dime Value.” CoinStudy.
