The 1928 Mercury Dime is a popular coin among collectors and numismatists due to its unique design and silver content. If you’ve found one of these dimes or are considering adding one to your collection, you might be curious about its value. This article will explain the factors that influence how much the 1928 Mercury Dime is worth and why it is sought after by collectors. We’ll break down its features, rarity, and the market trends affecting its value.
What is the 1928 Mercury Dime?
The 1928 Mercury Dime is part of the Mercury Dime series, which was minted by the U.S. Mint from 1916 to 1945. The coin is famous for its design, which features Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. While people often call it the “Mercury” dime, the coin actually depicts Liberty, not the Roman god Mercury. On the back of the coin is a fasces (a bundle of sticks) and an olive branch, representing unity and peace.
This coin is made of 90% silver, with the remaining 10% being copper. Its size is small, with a diameter of about 17.9 millimeters and a weight of 2.5 grams.
Key Features of the 1928 Mercury Dime
- Obverse (Front): Shows Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, with “LIBERTY” written at the top, “IN GOD WE TRUST” at the bottom, and the year “1928.”
- Reverse (Back): Displays a fasces and an olive branch with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DIME.”
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Diameter: 17.9 millimeters
Factors That Affect the Value of the 1928 Mercury Dime
1. Condition of the Coin
The condition of the coin plays a major role in its value. Coins are graded based on their appearance and how much wear they have. Here’s how the grading scale works:
- Good (G-4): The coin is worn, but major details are still visible.
- Very Fine (VF-20): The coin has moderate wear, but details are clearer.
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): Minimal wear, with most details intact.
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-70): The coin shows no signs of wear and looks as if it just came from the mint.
The better the condition, the higher the value. Uncirculated coins are typically the most valuable.
2. Mint Marks
The mint mark tells you where the coin was made. The 1928 Mercury Dime was minted in two locations:
- Philadelphia Mint (No mint mark): This version is more common.
- San Francisco Mint (S mint mark): This version is rarer and more valuable.
Because the 1928-S is harder to find, it tends to be more valuable than the Philadelphia version, especially in higher grades.
3. Market Value
The value of the 1928 Mercury Dime depends on how much collectors are willing to pay. Here’s a general idea of how much you can expect to pay or receive for these coins in different conditions:
| Condition | 1928 Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) | 1928-S (San Francisco Mint) |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $3–$5 | $4–$8 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $5–$10 | $12–$18 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $12–$18 | $25–$40 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $25–$40 | $80–$100 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS-65) | $80–$150 | $250–$350 |
Why Do People Collect 1928 Mercury Dimes?
There are several reasons why the 1928 Mercury Dime is a popular choice for collectors:
- Design: The coin has an iconic and unique design that appeals to many collectors.
- Silver Content: As a 90% silver coin, the Mercury Dime has inherent value beyond its collectible appeal.
- Historical Significance: Being a coin from the late 1920s, it holds historical value for those interested in American history and coinage.
- Rarity: The 1928-S version is particularly rare, making it a desirable find for serious collectors.
Conclusion
The 1928 Mercury Dime is an interesting and valuable coin, especially for collectors. Its value depends on factors such as condition, mint mark, and rarity. Whether you’re just starting to collect or are a seasoned numismatist, understanding what makes these coins special will help you appreciate their worth. Keep an eye out for a well-preserved 1928-S Mercury Dime, as it can be a prized addition to any collection.
If you have a 1928 Mercury Dime, it’s a good idea to get it appraised by a professional to determine its true market value based on its condition and mint mark.
FAQ’s
How much is a 1928 Mercury Dime worth?
The value of a 1928 Mercury Dime depends on its condition and mint mark. A 1928 Philadelphia (no mint mark) can be worth anywhere from $3 to $150, while the rarer 1928-S can range from $4 to $350 or more in excellent condition.
What makes the 1928-S Mercury Dime more valuable?
The 1928-S is rarer than the 1928 Philadelphia Dime. Fewer were minted, especially in higher grades, making it a more valuable coin for collectors.
How do I know if my 1928 Mercury Dime is in good condition?
The condition of a coin is graded on a scale from Good (G-4) to Mint State (MS-70). Coins in better condition, such as Extremely Fine or Uncirculated, are worth more due to their better preservation and detail.