The 1944 Mercury dime is a classic silver coin that is highly sought after by collectors. Depending on its condition and which mint it was struck at, a 1944 dime can be worth anywhere from its silver melt value of around $1.50 up to tens of thousands of dollars for top-quality specimens.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll dive into all the factors that determine the 1944 dime value, examine some record-breaking examples, and provide tips for collectors. Whether you‘ve inherited some old dimes or are looking to add to your collection, you‘ll learn everything you need to know about 1944 Mercury dimes.
History and Background of the 1944 Mercury Dime
First minted in 1916, the Mercury or Winged Liberty Head dime was designed by noted sculptor Adolph A. Weinman. The obverse features a youthful depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, which was said to resemble the Roman god Mercury, giving the coin its common name. Weinman‘s initials AW appear below the date.
The reverse shows a fasces, an ancient Roman symbol of authority, with an olive branch symbolizing peace. The name of the country and denomination surround the main devices.
1944 saw a large mintage of Mercury dimes as the U.S. Mint worked to produce enough coinage for a country at war. In total, over 343 million dimes were struck across all three mints: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).
All 1944 Mercury dimes were minted in a 90% silver, 10% copper alloy and measure 17.9 millimeters in diameter. Each contains .07234 ounces of pure silver.
Factors Determining 1944 Dime Value
Several key factors determine how much a 1944 Mercury dime is worth:
Mint Mark
Where a 1944 dime was minted makes a big difference in its value. Coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint carry no mint mark, while those minted in Denver have a "D" and San Francisco coins an "S" on the reverse.
In general, Philadelphia examples are most common, followed by Denver. San Francisco dimes had the lowest mintage at around 50 million and thus carry a premium.
Condition and Grade
As with any coin, condition is king when it comes to 1944 dime values. Coins are graded on a 70-point scale from Poor (barely identifiable) up to Mint State or uncirculated.
Millions of 1944 dimes entered circulation, so worn examples in the lowest grades are abundant and trade for little above melt value. Uncirculated examples, especially in high grades, are scarcer and much more valuable.
Counterfeit detection is also important since this date is often faked by altering coins from other years. Stick with certified examples in PCGS or NGC holders to avoid counterfeits.
Full Bands (FB) Designation
Mercury dimes struck from fresh, unworn dies with full detail in the horizontal bands in the fasces on the reverse are noted as "Full Bands" or "FB" by grading services.
The bands are one of the first places wear appears, so fully struck examples are scarce. Collectors prize these coins and they command strong premiums in higher grades.
Errors and Varieties
Like any coin, 1944 Mercury dimes can exhibit a range of errors and varieties. Most are common and carry little premium, but major errors like off-center strikes or double dies can significantly increase value.
The most notable variety is a repunched mintmark on some Denver coins, showing traces of the "D" in two different positions. Other collectible varieties include those showing die cracks or missing design elements.
1944 Dime Value by Mint Mark and Grade
Here are representative retail values for 1944 Mercury dimes across a range of grades and mint marks. Note that individual coins may trade for more or less based on eye appeal, market conditions, and other factors.
1944 (P) Dime Value
- Good (G-4) – $2 to $3
- Very Good (VG-8) – $2 to $4
- Fine (F-12) – $2.50 to $5
- Very Fine (VF-20) – $3 to $6
- Extra Fine (EF-40) – $3.50 to $10
- About Uncirculated (AU-50) – $4 to $15
- Mint State 60 (MS-60) – $8 to $20
- Mint State 65 (MS-65) – $25 to $50
- Mint State 65 Full Bands (MS-65FB) – $100 to $150
- Mint State 67 Full Bands (MS-67FB) – $750 to $1,000+
1944-D Dime Value
- Good (G-4) – $2 to $3
- Very Good (VG-8) – $2 to $4
- Fine (F-12) – $2.50 to $5
- Very Fine (VF-20) – $3 to $6
- Extra Fine (EF-40) – $3.50 to $10
- About Uncirculated (AU-50) – $4 to $15
- Mint State 60 (MS-60) – $9 to $25
- Mint State 65 (MS-65) – $30 to $60
- Mint State 65 Full Bands (MS-65FB) – $125 to $200
- Mint State 67 Full Bands (MS-67FB) – $1,000 to $1,500+
1944-S Dime Value
- Good (G-4) – $2.50 to $4
- Very Good (VG-8) – $3 to $5
- Fine (F-12) – $3 to $6
- Very Fine (VF-20) – $4 to $8
- Extra Fine (EF-40) – $4 to $12
- About Uncirculated (AU-50) – $5 to $20
- Mint State 60 (MS-60) – $12 to $30
- Mint State 65 (MS-65) – $40 to $75
- Mint State 65 Full Bands (MS-65FB) – $150 to $300
- Mint State 67 Full Bands (MS-67FB) – $2,500 to $5,000+
Exceptional Coins and Auction Records
The finest known 1944 Mercury dimes have realized impressive prices at auction. In 2009, a 1944 dime graded MS-68FB by PCGS sold for $25,300, while a 1944-S in the same grade brought $11,750 in 2013.
More recently, a 1944-D graded MS-68+FB by PCGS garnered $5,040 in 2019. These prices underscore the demand for condition rarities and coins with superb eye appeal.
Of course, such extraordinary coins are the exceptions. Most 1944 Mercury dimes trade for much more modest sums in line with the pricing data presented earlier.
Comparison to Silver Value
With silver around $25 per ounce as of September 2021, each 1944 Mercury dime contains about $1.78 worth of the precious metal. This melt value forms a base price for low-grade examples.
However, collectible value far exceeds melt value for problem-free coins. Even common circulated examples are worth $2 to $3, while higher-grade pieces can run into the hundreds or thousands.
Collectors should be aware that "coin silver" of 90% purity does carry somewhat of a premium over pure bullion, so realize that a dime may be worth slightly more than its metal content when selling to a refiner or smelter.
Notable Errors and Varieties
1944 Mercury dimes are known for several collectible errors and varieties beyond the common repunched mintmark on Denver coins. While none are particularly rare, they are popular with variety specialists.
One is a doubled die obverse, showing noticeably doubled lettering and details on the front of the coin. The doubling is most visible in the date, letters of LIBERTY, and the digits in Weinman‘s initials.
Other collectible errors include partial collar strikes, where the dime was struck without being fully encased by the retaining collar die, and off-center strikes missing part of the design.
Coins weakly struck on worn dies may show missing letters, flattened details, or lack full separation on the reverse torch bands. Late die state pieces with prominent cracks through the designs are also appreciated by some collectors.
Grading and Authentication
Mercury dimes are widely faked by adding or removing mint marks on genuine coins. For any key date like the 1944, it‘s advisable to purchase certified examples whenever possible.
Companies like PCGS, NGC, and ANACS will grade submitted coins for a fee, encapsulating them in tamper-evident plastic holders with a printed label noting the assigned grade. This takes the guesswork out of grading and provides peace of mind.
For raw coins, grading is done with a combination of magnification and careful analysis of wear, strike, luster, and surface preservation. Mint State coins will show no wear, while those in AU grade may have slight friction on the high points.
Beware of cleaned, polished, or artificially toned coins, as these are worth considerably less than original, problem-free pieces. When in doubt about a coin‘s grade or authenticity, consult a trusted dealer or third-party grading service.
Collecting 1944 Mercury Dimes
Most collectors pursue 1944 Mercury dimes as part of a complete date and mint set of the series. Specialists may focus on die varieties or Full Bands coins.
An achievable goal for most collectors would be a circulated set with one example from each mint. Uncirculated pieces are much scarcer and costlier, especially from Denver and San Francisco.
Because of their 90% silver content, many dimes have been melted over the years. This makes high-grade examples scarcer than mintage figures may suggest.
When buying, look for problem-free coins with original surfaces and good eye appeal for the assigned grade. Avoid cleaned, damaged, or heavily marked pieces.
1944 dimes are plentiful enough that collectors can afford to be selective. Take your time and be patient in acquiring attractive coins that will be a source of pride for years to come.
Historical Context and Significance
1944 saw the United States deeply embroiled in the Second World War. On the homefront, Americans dealt with rationing and shortages of consumer goods as the country‘s industrial might was focused on supplying the war effort.
Coinage was no exception. The Mint worked overtime to produce enough small change for commerce, striking Mercury dimes in huge numbers compared to the lean years of the Great Depression.
Mintages would fall in 1945 as the war neared an end, making the 1944 issues among the most available Mercury dimes of the 1940s. They‘re an ideal starting point for new collectors to appreciate this classic 20th-century series.
Conclusion
The value of a 1944 Mercury dime depends on its condition, mint mark, and other factors like the presence of errors or the Full Bands designation. While common in lower grades, exceptional 1944 dimes are highly prized by collectors.
As with any coin, it pays to educate yourself on grading standards, pricing trends, and how to avoid counterfeits or problem coins. Armed with this knowledge, you can assemble a set of appealing 1944 dimes that will bring enjoyment for a lifetime.
Whether you‘re a seasoned collector or just starting out, 1944 Mercury dimes offer a fascinating glimpse into America‘s numismatic and cultural heritage. Their enduring charm and historical significance make them a perennial favorite.
FAQs
Q: What are 1944 dimes made from?
A: All 1944 Mercury dimes are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a total silver weight of 0.07234 troy ounces each.
Q: How can I tell if my 1944 dime is authentic?
A: The safest approach is to buy certified coins. For raw pieces, compare them to known genuine examples and watch for signs of added or removed mint marks. If in doubt, consult an expert.
Q: Are 1944 dimes rare?
A: In absolute terms, no. 1944 saw a high mintage of Mercury dimes and even nice uncirculated examples are readily available. Truly rare coins include top-grade Full Bands pieces and dramatic errors.
Q: What is the most valuable 1944 dime?
A: The record price is $25,300 for a 1944 Mercury dime graded MS-68FB by PCGS, achieved at auction in 2009. Other MS-67FB and higher coins routinely sell for four-figure prices.
Q: How much silver is in a 1944 dime?
A: Each 1944 Mercury dime contains 0.07234 troy ounces of pure silver, which equates to roughly $1.78 at a $25 per ounce market price.
