Discovering The Rarest 1923-W Mercury Dime

What is a 1923 W Mercury dime?

The 1923 W Mercury dime is a ten-cent piece that was struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1923. It is made of 90% silver and 10% copper and weighs 2.5 grams. The obverse (heads side) of the coin features a portrait of Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, designed by Adolph A. Weinman. The reverse (tails side) of the coin features a fasces (a bundle of rods tied together with an axe blade protruding) surrounded by the words "ONE DIME" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA".

The 1923 W Mercury dime is a popular coin among collectors because it is one of the last Mercury dimes to be struck at the San Francisco Mint. The San Francisco Mint closed in 1937, and no Mercury dimes were struck there after that year.

The 1923 W Mercury dime is also a valuable coin. The current value of a 1923 W Mercury dime in good condition is around $20. However, the value of the coin can vary depending on its condition and rarity.

1923 W Mercury Dime

The 1923 W Mercury dime is a popular and valuable coin among collectors. Here are seven key aspects of the coin:

• Obverse: Adolph A. Weinman's portrait of Liberty
• Reverse: Fasces surrounded by "ONE DIME" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
• Weight: 2.5 grams
• Mint: San Francisco Mint
• Year: 1923
• Value: Around $20 in good condition

These aspects make the 1923 W Mercury dime a unique and desirable coin. The obverse and reverse designs are both iconic, and the coin's silver content gives it a high intrinsic value. The fact that it was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which closed in 1937, also adds to its rarity and value.

1. Obverse

The obverse of the 1923 W Mercury dime features Adolph A. Weinman's portrait of Liberty. This portrait is one of the most iconic and recognizable images in American coinage. It depicts Liberty as a young woman wearing a winged Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom and revolution. Liberty's hair is flowing in the wind, and she is looking forward with a determined expression. Weinman's portrait of Liberty is a powerful and inspiring image that has come to represent the American spirit.

• Symbolism: Weinman's portrait of Liberty is a powerful symbol of American freedom and independence. The Phrygian cap that Liberty wears is a symbol of the Roman goddess Libertas, who personified liberty. The fact that Liberty is looking forward with a determined expression suggests that she is always looking towards the future and is always fighting for the cause of freedom.
• Artistic merit: Weinman's portrait of Liberty is a beautiful and well-executed work of art. The portrait is finely detailed and captures Liberty's beauty and strength. Weinman's use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and realism.
• Historical significance: Weinman's portrait of Liberty was first used on the Mercury dime in 1916. The Mercury dime was designed to replace the Barber dime, which had been in circulation since 1892. Weinman's portrait of Liberty was a radical departure from the Barber dime's design, and it quickly became one of the most popular coins in American history.

Weinman's portrait of Liberty is a timeless and iconic image that has come to represent the American spirit. The portrait is a powerful symbol of freedom and independence, and it is a beautiful and well-executed work of art.

2. Reverse

The reverse of the 1923 W Mercury dime features a fasces surrounded by the words "ONE DIME" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". The fasces is a bundle of rods tied together with an axe blade protruding, and it is a symbol of authority and power. The fasces was used as a symbol of the Roman Republic, and it was later adopted by the United States as a symbol of its own government.

• Symbol of authority and power: The fasces is a symbol of authority and power, and it is often used to represent the government. The fasces on the 1923 W Mercury dime is a reminder of the power of the United States government.
• Symbol of unity: The fasces is also a symbol of unity, and it is often used to represent the strength of a nation. The fasces on the 1923 W Mercury dime is a reminder of the strength of the United States.
• Symbol of justice: The fasces is also a symbol of justice, and it is often used to represent the fairness of the law. The fasces on the 1923 W Mercury dime is a reminder of the fairness of the American justice system.

The reverse of the 1923 W Mercury dime is a powerful reminder of the authority, power, unity, and justice of the United States government. The fasces is a symbol that has been used for centuries to represent these important concepts, and it is a fitting symbol for the United States, a nation that was founded on the principles of democracy and justice.

3. Composition

The 1923 W Mercury dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This composition gives the coin a distinctive weight and feel, and it also makes the coin more resistant to wear and tear. The silver content also gives the coin a higher intrinsic value than coins made of other metals, such as nickel or copper.

The use of silver in the 1923 W Mercury dime was not accidental. Silver was the traditional metal used for coinage in the United States, and it was not until the late 19th century that other metals, such as nickel and copper, began to be used. Silver is a relatively soft metal, which makes it easy to work with, and it also has a high melting point, which makes it difficult to counterfeit.

The 1923 W Mercury dime is a beautiful and well-made coin, and its composition of 90% silver and 10% copper is one of the things that makes it so desirable to collectors. The silver content gives the coin a distinctive weight and feel, and it also makes the coin more resistant to wear and tear.

4. Weight

The weight of the 1923 W Mercury dime is 2.5 grams. This is a relatively light weight for a coin, but it is typical for dimes and other small coins. The weight of the coin is important because it affects its feel and durability.

• Feel: A coin's weight contributes to its feel. A heavier coin feels more substantial and valuable than a lighter coin. The 1923 W Mercury dime is a relatively light coin, but it still has a satisfying weight to it.
• Durability: A coin's weight also affects its durability. A heavier coin is more durable than a lighter coin because it is less likely to bend or break. The 1923 W Mercury dime is a relatively light coin, but it is still durable enough to withstand everyday use.

The weight of the 1923 W Mercury dime is an important factor to consider when collecting or using the coin. The coin's weight affects its feel and durability, which are both important factors for collectors and users alike.

5. Mint

The San Francisco Mint played a crucial role in the production of the 1923 W Mercury dime. The mint, established in 1854, was responsible for producing a significant number of coins during the early 20th century, including the Mercury dime.

• Production: The San Francisco Mint produced a large quantity of 1923 W Mercury dimes. These coins were distributed throughout the western United States and played a vital role in commerce and everyday transactions.
• Distinctive Mark: The San Francisco Mint used a unique mint mark, the letter "W," to identify coins produced at its facility. The 1923 W Mercury dime bears this mint mark, making it easy to distinguish from Mercury dimes produced at other mints.
• Historical Significance: The San Francisco Mint played a significant role in the history of the Mercury dime. The mint produced Mercury dimes from 1916 until 1945, when production was moved to the Denver Mint. The 1923 W Mercury dime is a reminder of the mint's historical importance in the production of this iconic coin.
• Collector Value: The 1923 W Mercury dime is a popular coin among collectors. The combination of its historical significance, distinctive mint mark, and relatively low mintage make it a desirable collectible.

In conclusion, the San Francisco Mint played a vital role in the production and distribution of the 1923 W Mercury dime. The mint's distinctive mint mark, historical significance, and contribution to the overall production of Mercury dimes make this coin a valuable and sought-after collectible.

6. Year

The year 1923 holds significance in the context of the 1923 W Mercury dime due to its historical backdrop and the coin's unique characteristics.

• Economic and Social Climate: 1923 marked a period of economic prosperity and social change in the United States. The nation was experiencing a post-World War I economic boom, and new industries and technologies were emerging. This prosperous environment provided a favorable context for the production and circulation of coins, including the 1923 W Mercury dime.
• Coinage Act of 1921: The year 1923 was significant for numismatics due to the passage of the Coinage Act of 1921. This act authorized the redesign of several U.S. coins, including the dime. The Mercury dime, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, was introduced as a result of this legislation.
• Debut of the Mercury Dime: 1923 marked the first year of production for the Mercury dime. The coin was struck at various mints, including the San Francisco Mint, which produced the 1923 W Mercury dime. The unique design and composition of the Mercury dime made it an instant success among the public.
• Historical Events: The year 1923 witnessed several notable historical events that provide context to the 1923 W Mercury dime. Some of these events include the inauguration of President Calvin Coolidge, the discovery of King Tut's tomb, and the publication of "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

In summary, the year 1923 played a pivotal role in shaping the context and characteristics of the 1923 W Mercury dime. The economic prosperity, coinage legislation, debut of the Mercury dime design, and historical events of 1923 all contributed to the significance of this coin in American numismatic history.

7. Value

The value of a 1923 W Mercury dime in good condition is around $20. This value is determined by several factors, including the coin's rarity, condition, and overall desirability among collectors. The 1923 W Mercury dime is a relatively rare coin, with only 1,504,000 minted. It is also a popular coin among collectors due to its unique design and historical significance. As a result, the 1923 W Mercury dime commands a premium price compared to other Mercury dimes.

The condition of a coin is also a major factor in determining its value. A coin in good condition will have no major defects, such as scratches or dents. The surfaces of the coin will be smooth and free of any major wear. A coin in good condition will also have good eye appeal, meaning that it is pleasing to the eye. Coins with more significant wear or defects will be worth less than coins in good condition.

The overall desirability of a coin is another factor that affects its value. Some coins are more popular among collectors than others, and this can drive up their prices. The 1923 W Mercury dime is a popular coin due to its rarity, design, and historical significance. As a result, it is more valuable than some other Mercury dimes.

Understanding the factors that affect the value of a 1923 W Mercury dime is important for collectors and investors. By understanding these factors, collectors can make informed decisions about which coins to buy and sell. Investors can also use this information to make informed decisions about whether or not to invest in 1923 W Mercury dimes.

FAQs on 1923 W Mercury Dime

This section addresses some of the most commonly asked questions and misconceptions surrounding the 1923 W Mercury dime. Understanding these FAQs can provide valuable insights for collectors, investors, and anyone interested in the history and significance of this iconic coin.

Question 1: What factors determine the value of a 1923 W Mercury dime?

Rarity: The 1923 W Mercury dime is a relatively rare coin, with only 1,504,000 minted. Its scarcity contributes to its value.

Question 2: How can I identify a genuine 1923 W Mercury dime?

Examine the mint mark: Genuine 1923 W Mercury dimes will have a small "W" mint mark on the reverse, indicating that they were struck at the San Francisco Mint.

Check the weight and diameter: A genuine 1923 W Mercury dime should weigh 2.5 grams and have a diameter of 17.9 millimeters.

Question 3: What is the historical significance of the 1923 W Mercury dime?

Design debut: The 1923 W Mercury dime was the first year of production for the Mercury dime design, which was introduced as a result of the Coinage Act of 1921.

Economic context: The 1923 W Mercury dime was produced during a period of economic prosperity in the United States, following World War I.

Question 4: How can I care for and preserve my 1923 W Mercury dime?

Proper storage: Store your 1923 W Mercury dime in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Handle with care: Avoid touching the coin directly with your fingers, as oils and acids from your skin can damage its surface.

Question 5: Where can I find more information and resources on the 1923 W Mercury dime?

Numismatic societies: Join numismatic societies and attend coin shows to connect with other collectors and access valuable information.

Online resources: Explore reputable online resources, such as the American Numismatic Association website, for articles, research, and discussion forums.

Understanding these FAQs can enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the 1923 W Mercury dime. By following the recommendations provided, you can properly identify, value, care for, and learn more about this significant piece of American coinage.

Transition to the next article section: This concludes the FAQs section on the 1923 W Mercury dime. In the next section, we will delve deeper into the historical and cultural context surrounding this iconic coin, exploring its impact on American society and its enduring legacy as a collectible.

Conclusion

The 1923 W Mercury dime stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of American coinage. Its unique design, historical significance, and enduring popularity have made it a prized collectible among numismatists and enthusiasts alike.

The coin's journey through history, from its debut as a symbol of economic prosperity to its status as a valuable collectible, reflects the changing face of American society. The 1923 W Mercury dime serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art, history, and the pursuit of excellence in craftsmanship.