Value Reference
1919 Mercury Dime Value Chart at a Glance
For a thorough step-by-step 1919 Mercury dime identification breakdown, cross-reference the figures below against graded population reports from PCGS and NGC. Values shown are approximate retail ranges for problem-free, unclean coins — cleaned or damaged examples sell for significantly less.
| Variety / Mint | Worn (G–F) | Circulated (VF–EF) | Uncirculated (MS-60–63) | Gem (MS-65+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1919-P (No Mint Mark) | $4 – $10 | $15 – $35 | $50 – $200 | $275 – $1,400 |
| 1919-P Full Bands ★ | N/A | N/A | $150 – $375 | $1,375 – $2,850 |
| 1919-D (Denver) | $6 – $30 | $35 – $75 | $300 – $800 | $1,500 – $4,750 |
| 1919-D Full Bands 🔥 | N/A | N/A | $2,600+ | $4,750 – $218,500 |
| 1919-S (San Francisco) | $7 – $30 | $30 – $75 | $350 – $960 | $1,600 – $4,750 |
| 1919-S Full Bands | N/A | N/A | $850 – $1,600 | $4,250+ |
| 1919 DDO FS-101 | $1,350+ | $3,500 – $6,500 | $12,000+ | $18,500+ |
★ 1919-P FB = Signature variety · 🔥 1919-D FB = Rarest/highest value · All values approximate retail; Full Bands (FB) = PCGS/NGC designated coins only.
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Valuable Varieties & Errors
The Valuable 1919 Mercury Dime Errors — Complete Guide
Four stand-out varieties can transform an ordinary 1919 Mercury dime into a serious collector's piece. From a die variety with only about ten known examples, to the elusive Full Bands strike premium that drives five-figure prices, understanding what to look for is the single most important skill a 1919 dime owner can develop. Each card below covers the diagnostic features, market values, and key grading context you need.
1919 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) FS-101
The 1919 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 is one of the most dramatic and historically significant die varieties in the entire Mercury dime series. It was catalogued by CONECA and publicized to the broader numismatic community in February 2016, when GreatCollections auctioned the finest known example — an astonishing find nearly a century after the coins were struck.
The doubling is concentrated on the obverse motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," with the letters in "GOD" and "TRUST" showing strong, clearly displaced secondary images. Unlike many doubled dies that require high-powered magnification, the 1919 DDO FS-101 doubling is visible to the naked eye on well-preserved examples when viewed under a strong raking light.
Only approximately 10 examples were known when the variety was announced, placing it in the company of elite 20th-century rarities. The extreme scarcity means even heavily worn examples command thousands of dollars — a VG-8 example reportedly sold for over $2,800, while About Uncirculated specimens are valued at $18,500 or more.
1919-D Full Bands (FB) Strike
The 1919-D Full Bands designation is widely regarded as one of the premier condition rarities of the entire 20th century. The Denver Mint's press alignment in 1919 was particularly prone to under-striking the central reverse area, leaving the horizontal fasces bands fused or mushy on the overwhelming majority of coins produced that year.
A Full Bands specimen requires both horizontal bands crossing the fasces to show complete, unbroken separation — neither band can be merged with the rods above or below it. Because the strike deficiency affected virtually every coin produced, PCGS has graded the 1919-D only up to MS-66 in Full Bands, with no MS-67 or higher examples known. A standard MS-65 1919-D without Full Bands is worth approximately $1,500; the same grade with Full Bands jumps to $4,750.
The absolute top of the population — one PCGS MS-66 Full Bands coin — realized $218,500 at Heritage Auctions, making it one of the highest prices ever paid for any Mercury dime, outranked only by the legendary 1916-D in top Mint State grades. Any 1919-D approaching MS-65 with Full Bands potential deserves immediate PCGS or NGC submission.
1919 Off-Center Strike
Off-center strikes occur when a blank planchet is not properly centered over the lower die during the striking process, causing the design to be stamped at an angle. The result is a coin with part of the design missing on one side and a corresponding blank crescent of planchet metal exposed opposite. The severity of the misalignment determines both the visual drama and the coin's market value.
On a 1919 Mercury dime, minor 5–10% off-center strikes leave the full date and mint mark visible and command modest premiums of $50–$100. More dramatic examples displaced 20–50% off-center, where a significant portion of Liberty's portrait is missing yet the 1919 date remains clearly legible, are far more desirable. A documented 1919 Mercury dime in MS-62 Full Bands struck 10% off-center sold for approximately $300.
Collectors prize off-center strikes that retain the full date because the year attribution is unambiguous, making the error clearly identifiable as a 1919 production issue. Examples with strong die luster, minimal contact marks, and dramatic displacement command the highest premiums — the combination of an off-center strike and a Full Bands reverse is exceptionally rare and especially sought after.
1919 Uncentered Broadstrike
A broadstrike error occurs when the planchet is not properly seated inside the retaining die collar at the moment of striking. Without the collar holding the metal in place, the force of the dies causes the coin's metal to spread outward, resulting in a finished coin that is wider than the standard 17.9mm diameter and typically displays a plain, smooth edge instead of the normal reeded edge.
Unlike an off-center strike where design elements are missing, a broadstrike retains the complete design on both obverse and reverse — the image is simply expanded and slightly distorted outward. The plain edge is the quickest diagnostic: if your 1919 dime lacks reeding and appears slightly oversized, it is a broadstrike candidate. An uncentered broadstrike occurs when the spreading is not perfectly symmetrical, giving the coin an oval-like appearance.
A documented 1919 Mercury dime in AU-50 condition with an uncentered broadstrike sold for approximately $100 — well above the $28 value a comparable non-error example would bring. Premiums are driven by the severity of the metal spread, the preservation of surface detail, and overall eye appeal. Collectors should verify authenticity through PCGS or NGC before selling, as broadstrikes are sometimes confused with post-mint damage.
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1919 Mercury Dime Mintage & Survival Data
| Issue | Mint | Mintage | Survival Est. (MS) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1919 (P) | Philadelphia | 35,740,000 | Moderate | Common in circulated grades; moderately scarce in MS-65+; FB designation uncommon |
| 1919-D | Denver | 9,939,000 | Scarce in MS | Semi-key date; notoriously weakly struck; MS-66 FB condition census — none higher graded |
| 1919-S | San Francisco | 8,850,000 | Scarce in MS | Lowest mintage of year; also weakly struck; MS-67 FB examples exist but are extremely rare |
| Total 1919 Issue | 54,529,000 | No proof coinage struck in 1919 | ||
Survival estimates represent the author's qualitative assessment based on PCGS population data. The 1919-D and 1919-S have substantially smaller certified populations in MS grades compared to Philadelphia issues. No proof strikings were produced for the Mercury dime series in 1919.
Grading Guide
How to Grade Your 1919 Mercury Dime
Worn (G–F)
Liberty's portrait is flat and featureless. Wing details largely merged with cap. Fasces bands completely worn smooth. Rim may touch lettering. Still clearly a Mercury dime but lacking all fine detail. Worth $4–$30 depending on mint mark.
Circulated (VF–EF)
Hair strands above Liberty's ear still visible. Fasces vertical lines present on edges. Wing feather rows partially separated. A coin showing moderate but not heavy wear — still attractive and collectible. Worth $15–$75 depending on mint mark.
Uncirculated (MS-60–63)
No wear, but may have contact marks or bag abrasions. Full mint luster present. Liberty's cheek and wing tip retain original texture. Bands may be weakly struck on 1919-D and 1919-S. Worth $50–$960 depending on mint and strike quality.
Gem (MS-65+)
Outstanding eye appeal, minimal marks, blazing luster. Full Bands designation possible. Any Gem 1919-D or 1919-S is rare and worth submitting for PCGS/NGC certification. Full Bands gems push values into four and five figures rapidly. Worth $275–$218,500.
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Signature Variety Checker
Full Bands (FB) Self-Checker
The Full Bands designation is the defining value driver for 1919 Mercury dimes, especially the 1919-D. Use the image below and the four checklist items to assess whether your coin may qualify.
⚪ Common Strike
- Bands appear merged or fused together
- Center of fasces looks "mushy" or flat
- No visible gap between band and rods
- Applies to most 1919-D and 1919-S coins
⭐ Full Bands (FB)
- Both horizontal bands fully separated
- Clean unbroken gap across entire fasces width
- Bands raised, not flat against rods
- Extremely rare on 1919-D; scarce on 1919-P and 1919-S
Check all four items that apply to YOUR coin's reverse:
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Free 1919 Dime Value Calculator
Select your mint mark, condition, and any known errors to get an instant estimated value range.
Step 1 — Mint Mark
Step 2 — Condition
Step 3 — Errors / Varieties
Not sure about your coin's mint mark or condition? A free third-party tool like the 1919 Mercury Dime Coin Value Checker with photo upload can help you identify key details before you use this calculator.
Detailed Assessment
Describe Your 1919 Dime for a Detailed Assessment
Type a description of your coin below and we'll analyze it for key value indicators, error markers, and grade signals.
Mention these things if you can
- Mint mark (D, S, or no mark)
- Any doubling on "IN GOD WE TRUST"
- Whether the fasces bands look fully separated
- Overall surface condition (worn, shiny, luster)
- Any visible errors (blank area, oversized, plain edge)
Also helpful
- Color of the coin (silver-white, toned, dark)
- Any cleaning marks or scratches
- Whether the date is fully clear and sharp
- If it's in a PCGS or NGC holder
- Approximate grade if known
Selling Guide
Where to Sell Your Valuable 1919 Mercury Dime
The right venue depends on your coin's grade and whether it has a Full Bands designation or variety attribution. Here are the four best options.
🏛️ Heritage Auctions
The top choice for any certified 1919-D or 1919-S in MS-63 or above, or for the DDO FS-101 variety. Heritage has a proven track record with Mercury dime rarities — including the $218,500 sale of the 1919-D MS-66 Full Bands. Best for coins valued over $500. Expect a seller's commission of around 10–15%.
🛒 eBay / Online Marketplaces
For circulated 1919 dimes worth $5–$150 or uncertified Uncirculated pieces, checking current sold listings and actual 1919 Mercury dime prices realized on the market will show you what similar coins have actually sold for recently. Always use PCGS/NGC certification before listing coins over $200, and include high-resolution photos of both sides and the edge.
🏪 Local Coin Shop (LCS)
Ideal for worn or circulated examples and bulk silver lots. Dealers typically pay 60–80% of retail for common grades. For a high-grade or rare specimen, get quotes from at least 2–3 dealers before accepting. A reputable LCS can also advise whether a coin is worth submitting for PCGS/NGC grading before sale.
💬 Reddit r/CoinSales
A growing community marketplace with no seller fees. Best for coins in the $20–$200 range. Provide clear photos, disclose grade and any problems honestly, and price based on recent eBay sold comparables. Certified coins sell faster and at better prices even on community forums.
Frequently Asked Questions
1919 Mercury Dime FAQ
How much is a 1919 Mercury dime worth?
A worn 1919 Philadelphia dime is worth around $4–$10 in circulated grades. In About Uncirculated condition it brings $45–$60. Uncirculated examples range from $50 at MS-60 to over $2,000 at MS-66. The 1919-D and 1919-S are worth more in all grades, and a Full Bands designation can multiply the value dramatically — the finest known 1919-D MS-66 Full Bands sold for $218,500 at Heritage Auctions.
What does 'Full Bands' mean on a Mercury dime?
Full Bands (FB) is a special designation awarded by PCGS and NGC to Mercury dimes whose reverse fasces shows complete horizontal band separation. On the fasces bundle, two horizontal bands cross the rods; a FB coin shows both bands fully split and raised. Most 1919-D and 1919-S dimes were weakly struck, making Full Bands examples extremely rare. The designation can multiply value by 2× to 50× or more compared to a non-FB coin of the same grade.
What is the 1919 DDO FS-101 variety?
The 1919 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 is a Philadelphia-minted die variety showing dramatic doubling on the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST,' especially the letters in 'GOD' and 'TRUST.' Only about 10 examples were known when the variety was catalogued by CONECA. It was discovered and auctioned publicly in 2016 by GreatCollections, who described it as one of the most important new varieties alongside the 1955 DDO Lincoln cent. Values range from around $1,350 in low grades up to $18,500 in About Uncirculated.
Is the 1919-D or 1919-S dime more valuable?
In high grades and especially with Full Bands, the 1919-D is the more valuable coin. The finest known 1919-D MS-66 Full Bands has sold for $218,500 — the highest price ever realized for any 1919 dime. This is because 1919-D dimes suffer from even more severe strike weakness than the 1919-S, making sharply struck Full Bands specimens exponentially rarer. In circulated grades, values for both branch-mint issues are comparable.
How do I tell if my 1919 dime has Full Bands?
Flip your coin to the reverse and examine the center of the fasces bundle under a 5× to 10× loupe. The fasces has two horizontal bands crossing the vertical rods. For a Full Bands designation, both bands must show a complete, unbroken line of separation — meaning neither band is fused or merged with the rods above or below it. On most 1919-D and 1919-S dimes, the bands appear mushy or partially fused due to a weak strike from the Denver and San Francisco mint presses.
What mint marks were used on the 1919 Mercury dime?
Three mint facilities produced 1919 Mercury dimes. Philadelphia struck 35,740,000 coins and did not place a mint mark on circulating issues. Denver struck 9,939,000 coins and used the 'D' mint mark. San Francisco struck 8,850,000 coins and used the 'S' mint mark. The mint mark appears on the reverse of the coin, to the left of the fasces bundle, just above the branch. No proof issues were struck in 1919.
What errors exist on 1919 dimes?
The most significant variety is the Doubled Die Obverse FS-101, showing strong doubling on 'IN GOD WE TRUST' — only about 10 examples are known and values reach $18,500. Individual mint errors include off-center strikes (10% off-center examples have sold for around $300), uncentered broadstrikes (where the coin expands beyond its collar, around $100), lamination errors (surface flaking from planchet flaws, $40–$250), and clipped planchets ($60–$250 depending on severity).
What is the silver content and melt value of a 1919 dime?
Every 1919 Mercury dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a total weight of 2.50 grams. At a silver spot price around $30 per troy ounce, the intrinsic melt value is approximately $3.25–$3.50. Because even worn examples in Good-4 condition command $4–$10, all collectible specimens carry a numismatic premium above their silver melt value. Always check the current silver spot price to calculate today's exact melt floor.
What makes the 1919 Mercury dime design significant?
Designed by Adolph Weinman and first struck in 1916, the Mercury dime (officially the Winged Liberty Head dime) is widely considered one of the most beautiful American coin designs. The obverse portrays Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury — hence the popular name. The reverse features a fasces and olive branch, symbolizing national strength and peace. By 1919 the series was three years old and the dies were producing sharper strikes than earlier issues.
Should I clean my 1919 Mercury dime before selling it?
Never clean your 1919 Mercury dime. Cleaning removes the original mint luster and toning that grading services use to authenticate and grade coins. Even gentle cleaning with a cloth or water leaves micro-abrasions visible under magnification. A cleaned coin will be labeled 'Details' by PCGS or NGC, losing most of its premium. A naturally toned, uncleaned circulated dime in Fine condition is worth far more than the same coin after cleaning. If you are unsure about a coin, consult a professional numismatist before doing anything.
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