The 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime is a captivating piece of American coin history. What makes this coin stand out is its tiny “S” mintmark, which is smaller than usual. This small detail has made it a favorite among coin collectors. In this article, we will explore the history, uniqueness, and reasons why this coin is so sought after by enthusiasts.
The History Behind the 1945-S Mercury Dime
The Mercury dime series was minted from 1916 to 1945. It features a design by Adolph A. Weinman, showing Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, which represents freedom of thought. The back side of the coin displays a fasces—a bundle of rods tied with an axe—symbolizing strength and unity, along with an olive branch representing peace.
The 1945 Mercury dime is particularly special because it was the last year this design was produced. After 1945, the U.S. Mint started making Roosevelt dimes to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This change marked the end of an era for the beloved Mercury dime series.
What Makes the “Micro S” Mintmark Unique?
The 1945-S Mercury Dime features an “S” mintmark, indicating it was minted in San Francisco. However, some coins have a much smaller “S” mintmark, which is why they are called the Micro S.
This smaller mintmark happened accidentally when a punch meant for coins for the Philippines was mistakenly used on some dimes in 1945. This small detail makes these coins rarer and more valuable to collectors.
Identifying the Micro “S” Mintmark
To find out if a 1945-S Mercury Dime has the Micro S mintmark, examine the back of the coin near the fasces symbol. Here’s a simple table showing the differences between the regular and Micro S mintmarks:
| Feature | Regular “S” Mintmark | Micro “S” Mintmark |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Standard “S” mintmark | Smaller and more compact “S” |
| Shape | More elongated and larger | Thicker and rounder |
| Need for Magnification | Often visible to the naked eye | Requires magnification for clarity |
Many collectors use a magnifying glass to spot the Micro S, as it can be hard to see at first glance.
Why Collectors Love the Micro “S” Mercury Dime
The rarity of the Micro S Mercury Dime makes it very desirable for collectors. While most 1945-S Mercury Dimes are relatively common, the Micro S variety is much harder to find. Prices for this coin can range from $15 to $20 for circulated coins, but uncirculated or well-kept coins can sell for hundreds of dollars, especially if they have “full bands” on the fasces, indicating the design is sharp and undamaged.
Coins that are graded by professional services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) tend to have higher values. Collectors are willing to pay more for coins in excellent condition, making grading an important aspect of coin collecting.
Conclusion
The 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime is unique due to its small mintmark, making it a rare and exciting find for collectors. Although the difference is tiny, it significantly affects the coin’s value and historical significance. As the last of the Mercury dimes, with its special Micro S mintmark, this coin holds a special place in U.S. coinage history.
Whether you’re just starting to collect coins or you’ve been doing it for years, the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime is a fantastic addition to any collection. Its small mintmark tells a fascinating story of how a tiny detail can have a big impact in the world of coins.
FAQs
1. What is the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime?
The 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime is a rare U.S. coin known for its tiny “S” mintmark, which indicates it was minted in San Francisco. This smaller mintmark makes it highly sought after by collectors.
2. Why is the “Micro S” mintmark significant?
The “Micro S” mintmark is significant because it results from an accidental use of a smaller punch meant for coins minted for the Philippines. This mistake makes the Micro S version much rarer than the regular “S” mintmark coins.
3. How can I tell if my 1945-S Mercury Dime has the Micro S mintmark?
To identify a Micro S mintmark, examine the reverse side of the coin near the fasces symbol. The Micro S is smaller and more compact compared to the standard “S” mintmark, often requiring magnification to see clearly.