The 1938 Mercury dimes have value as both numismatic coins and as silver bullion. Keep reading to learn more about these silver coins.

1938 Dime

Specifications

Type: Mercury Dime
Year: 1938
Face Value: $0.10
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Silver Weight: .07234 oz.
Total Weight: 2.5 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $2.21

Mercury dimes are also known as Winged Liberty Head dimes. The US minted the 1938 dime with no mint mark and also the 1938 D dime and 1938 S dime. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin.

Series Location Quantity Minted
1938 Philadelphia 22,190,000
1938 D Denver 5,537,000
1938 S San Francisco 8,090,000

Value

This coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $2.21. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $30.52 per ounce.

The 1938 dime with no mint mark is worth around $3.50 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $4. In uncirculated condition the price is around $11 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $32.

The 1938 D dime is worth around $3.50 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $4. In uncirculated condition the price is around $20 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $37.

The 1938 S dime is worth around $3.50 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $5. In uncirculated condition the price is around $22 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $45.

Proof coins with no mint mark are available and they are each valued at around $300 in PR 65 condition. There were only 8,728 proof coins minted.

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Grading System

Very fine- Each of the diagonal bands are completely visible.

Extremely fine- There is only a small amount of wear on the diagonal bands. Liberty's braids and the hair before her ear are completely visible.

MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.

MS 65 gem uncirculated- There is strong luster and eye appeal. A few light contact marks may be present but they are barely noticeable.

PR 65 proof- There are no flaws to this coin. A few blemishes may be present.

 

Sources:

The Red Book


See also:

1939 Dime
1937 Dime
1936 Dime