Mercury Silver Dime. 1943 D. FSB Gem Brilliant Unc

One Dime 1943 Mercury, Coin from United States

The dime, in United States usage, is a ten-cent coin (10¢), one tenth of a United States dollar, labelled formally as "one dime". After the half dime became five cents in 1873, the dime is now the only United States coin in general circulation that is not denominated in terms of dollars or cents.

The denomination exists since the introduction of US currency. It was initially a larger silver coin featuring the draped bust of Liberty (1796 - 1807), then a smaller capped bust of Liberty (1809 - 1837), then with a Seated Liberty obverse (1837 - 1891) which was in turn replaced by the Barber Dime (1892 - 1916).

The so-called Mercury Dime was introduced in 1916. Designed by Adolph Weinman and also referred to as the Winged Liberty Head Dime, it gained its common name because the obverse depiction of a young Liberty, identifiable by her winged Phrygian cap, was confused with the Roman god Mercury. The coin's reverse depicts a fasces - a Roman simbol of authority, unity and strength, and an olive branch signifying peace. Its composition, like that of earlier dimes, is 90% silver and 10% copper.

In later years, the composition of the dime was debased to copper-nickel, and silver coinage disappeared from circulation. However, these coins have never been demonetised and are still legal tender. This, of course, is of academic interest only, as their numismatic and bullion value is much higher than their face value.

From humble beginnings in 1949, SilverTowne has grown to be one most trusted bullion numismatics dealers in the US. In addition to a large selection of modern coins from mints around the world, we offer silver bullion bars and rounds of our own from the SilverTowne Mint. Many of these designs are exclusively ours, so buying directly from the source is a convenient and easy way to collect and keep your stacks growing!

Immerse yourself in American numismatic history with this exquisite 1943-D Mercury Silver Dime, presented in a remarkable Gem Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, further distinguished by its coveted Full Split Bands (FSB) designation. Struck at the Denver Mint during the height of World War II, this coin features Adolph Weinman's iconic Winged Liberty design, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury due to her Phrygian cap and wings, symbolizing freedom of thought. The reverse displays a fasces, representing strength through unity, and an olive branch, signifying peace.

The "Gem Brilliant Unc" classification signifies a coin with superb eye appeal, retaining its original mint luster and exhibiting virtually no signs of wear, typical of a coin grading around MS-65 or higher. The "FSB" (Full Split Bands) designation is particularly important for Mercury Dimes, indicating a strong strike where all horizontal bands on the fasces are clearly separated and defined, a feature highly sought after by collectors and indicative of superior quality. This 90% silver coin represents a tangible piece of American heritage and an outstanding addition to any collection, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the era.