The value of a 1943 US Mercury dime today depends heavily on its condition and specific variety. Here's a quick breakdown:
Key Details & Silver Factor
Minted during World War II, all 1943 dimes are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This silver content gives them inherent bullion value:
- Melt Value: Based on current silver prices, the approximate melt value is around $1.50 - $1.80 USD.
Value by Condition (Approximate Ranges)
- Worn (Good to Fine): $2 - $4 USD. The vast majority found in circulation fall into this category.
- Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (XF): $3 - $8 USD.
- About Uncirculated (AU): $10 - $20 USD.
- Uncirculated (Mint State MS-60 to MS-64): $15 - $40+ USD. Well-struck coins with minimal marks.
- Choice & Gem Uncirculated (MS-65+): $50 - $200+ USD. Coins with exceptional eye appeal, strong luster, and minimal contact marks command significantly higher premiums.
Note: The 1943 Philadelphia (no mintmark) and Denver (D) dimes are common. San Francisco (S) dimes are slightly less common in higher grades but values largely overlap with P/D coins.
Rare & Valuable Varieties
Significant premiums exist for specific varieties:
- 1943/2 Overdate (P): The major variety. Requires careful identification. Value: Even in low grades, hundreds of dollars; upwards of $1,000 - $10,000+ USD in certified higher grades. Extremely rare.
- Full Bands (FB): Designation for UNC coins with full horizontal lines on the fasces (bundle of rods). Commands a premium over regular UNC grades, potentially double or more.
Critical Advice: Most 1943 dimes are worth only slightly more than silver melt value. Accurately grading condition is essential. For any potentially high-grade coin or suspected variety (especially the overdate), professional authentication and grading by services like PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended to verify authenticity and condition for maximum value.
