Not all pocket change is created equal. Among ordinary coins, one rare Mercury dime can be worth a small fortune—the 1942/1 overdate dime, which has sold for up to $95,000 in top condition.
This mistake from the U.S. Mint remains one of the most famous varieties in coin collecting, drawing attention from both beginners and serious investors.
What Is the 1942/1 Mercury Dime?
The Mercury dime was produced from 1916 to 1945, officially known as the “Winged Liberty Head dime.” The 1942/1 error variety occurred when a 1941-dated hub was overpunched by a 1942 hub, creating a visible “1” beneath the “2” in the date.
This error was minted in both Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D”), giving collectors two separate overdate varieties to chase.
Why Is It Valuable?
- Historical Error: Minting mistakes are always popular, but an error visible to the naked eye is even more desirable.
- Scarcity in High Grade: While circulated examples exist, very few remain in uncirculated condition with Full Bands (FB) detail.
- Collector Demand: The Mercury dime series is widely collected, and this overdate sits at the top of every collector’s want list.
Current Market Value in 2025
The 1942/1 Mercury dime’s worth depends heavily on its mint mark, condition, and strike details.
| Grade / Variety | 1942/1 (Philadelphia) | 1942/1-D (Denver) |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated (Good–Fine) | $300 – $1,750 | $325 – $2,350 |
| Extremely Fine | $2,000 – $4,500 | $2,200 – $5,000 |
| About Uncirculated | $5,000 – $10,000 | $5,500 – $11,000 |
| Mint State (MS60–MS64) | $12,000 – $35,000 | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Top Grade (MS65–MS66 FB) | Up to $95,000+ | Up to $90,000+ |
FB = Full Bands designation, which shows fully separated bands on the reverse torch and greatly increases value.
How to Identify the 1942/1 Mercury Dime
If you think you might have one, here’s what to look for:
- Check the Date – The “2” in 1942 will show traces of a “1” underneath it.
- Mint Mark – On the Denver version, look for a small “D” mint mark to the left of the torch on the reverse.
- Use Magnification – A 10× loupe will make the overdate clearer.
- Strike Quality – Full Band details on the fasces make a huge difference in value.
- Certification – Because counterfeits exist, serious collectors should send coins to PCGS or NGC for grading and verification.
Rarity and Auction Records
- Fewer than 300 examples are estimated to survive in Mint State across both varieties.
- The Philadelphia 1942/1 is slightly more available than the Denver version, but both are extremely desirable.
- A PCGS MS66 FB example has reached auction prices of over $120,000, proving its elite status.
Why Collectors Love It
- Eye-Visible Error: Easy to explain and spot, making it popular among new collectors.
- Historic Variety: A piece of U.S. Mint history from WWII-era America.
- Investment Potential: Strong demand ensures that top-graded pieces keep setting new records.
The 1942/1 Mercury dime is one of the most iconic and valuable coins in American history. While ordinary examples sell for a few hundred dollars, exceptional uncirculated Full Bands pieces can bring $95,000 or more at auction.
Whether you’re a casual hobbyist or a seasoned numismatist, this dime is a reminder to always check your change—hidden treasure could be waiting in your pocket.
FAQs
Look closely at the “2” in the date—if you see part of a “1” beneath it, you likely have the overdate.
Yes, both the 1942/1 and the 1942/1-D are valuable. The Denver issue is slightly scarcer in higher grades.
No. Only a small percentage of dies had the overdate. Most 1942 dimes are common and only worth silver melt value.