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1942/1 Overdate Mercury dime value guide -- one of the most famous US coin errors, and grade-by-grade prices.
Note: a full grade-by-grade breakdown for this coin is still being compiled.
Per USA Coin Book, this is "one of the most identifiable and prominent errors in all US coins," identified by a visible underlying "1" on the left side of the "2" and a doubled "4" from the 1941 date punched underneath.
The MS-60-to-MS-65 jump is roughly 6x ($3,089 to $18,710), far steeper than the AU-50-to-MS-60 step -- plausible and consistent with known condition rarity for this heavily-collected overdate, since true gem examples are closely tracked by variety specialists.
Live listings matching the 1942 42 Over 41 Overdate Mercury Dime
Other dates and varieties in this series
Condition drives price more than any other factor on a coin like this — two examples of the same date can be worth very different amounts depending on wear and authentication.
The value table above is organized by grade for a reason — a coin's condition, not just its date, sets where it lands on that range. If you're not sure how to grade, a seller's photos and description should call it out.
A professionally graded (PCGS/NGC) example carries more certainty than a raw coin, and usually a small premium for it. Both are fine to buy — just factor grading into the price you're comparing.
Prices vary between individual sellers here, not one retailer's price list. Sort by price, check the seller's Metal Points and order history, and message the seller if photos don't show enough detail to grade confidently.
About the 1942 42 Over 41 Overdate Mercury Dime
Value depends heavily on condition. A well-worn example brings closer to $380, while an uncirculated one can reach $18,710 or more.
Per USA Coin Book, this is "one of the most identifiable and prominent errors in all US coins," identified by a visible underlying "1" on the left side of the "2" and a doubled "4" from the 1941 date punched underneath.
For anything you believe is a key date or an error, professional grading protects both buyer and seller by settling condition and authenticity before money changes hands.
List it free on PeerMetals — flat 2.75% seller fee, zero listing fees, 1–3 day payouts.
