This Mercury Dime Was Found in Change at a Thrift Store — A simple-looking shop changed the fortune of an American man. He simply went to a local thrift store, picked up a few cheap items, and while counting the change, he noticed one coin that looked a little odd. That small silver coin looked much older than the other coins. Curious, he took a closer look at it—it turned out to be a 1916-D Mercury dime!
And this is where the story of that coin begins, whose value today is estimated at $475,000 (about Rs 4 crore).
What is special in this Mercury Dime?
The coin that created this sensation was the 1916-D Mercury Dime. This design was first introduced by the US Mint in 1916. But its real identity is its “D” mintmark, which tells that this coin was made in Denver Mint.
In 1916, Denver Mint made only 264,000 Mercury Dimes. This number is very less compared to the rest of the dimes, and that is why the 1916-D Mercury Dime is considered one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the history of American coin collection.
Even after so many years, the condition of this coin was found to be very good, which increased its value further.
Discovery of a common man, confirmation of experts
The person who found this coin first thought that it might be worth a few dollars. He posted a photo of the coin on an online coin collecting forum, where he was advised to have it verified by a professional grading service.
He sent the coin to PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service). Experts there not only declared it genuine and authentic, but also found its condition to be “remarkably well-preserved.”
And then what happened is history—the 10-cent coin is now worth $475,000!
Why is the Mercury Dime so special?
The Mercury Dime is officially called the Winged Liberty Head Dime. It was minted between 1916 and 1945. It features a woman’s face that is often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury. In reality, it depicts Liberty with wings on her hat—a symbol of free thought.
Because of its unique artwork, historical significance, and limited production, this coin remains extremely attractive to collectors around the world.
Are there more such coins hidden among us?
After this story, everyone is wondering—can I also have such a coin?
Experts believe that many such rare coins may still be hidden in people’s old piggy banks, jewelry boxes, or thrift stores. It is advisable to look carefully, especially for old silver coins—some of them may have mintmarks or errors, which make them worth millions.
Be careful, opportunity can be found anywhere
If you have old coins, do not leave them unattended. Especially if they have the years 1916, 1942, 1945 or any ‘D’, ‘S’, or ‘O’ mintmark, get them checked by a certified grading service immediately.
Maybe you too have a rare coin that could change your fortune.
ALSO READ:- Rare 1804 Coin Sells for Millions
Conclusion: Treasure found at a thrift store
This incident reminds us that sometimes the most valuable things are found in the most ordinary moments of ordinary life. The man was neither a coin collector nor an amateur explorer. He just had a sharp eye and luck favored him.
Who knows, maybe you’ll be next? The next time you count change, take a closer look—you might have some history in your palm!
