The 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime is a popular variety that is approachable for novice collectors on a budget yet also provides substantial challenges to those with bigger pocketbooks. This quirky dime, first discovered by collectors in 1947, features a tiny “S” mintmark on the reverse where a larger “S” mintmark ordinarily resides.
The big question many collectors ask is “how rare is the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime?” The precise answer is unknown as no known U.S. Mint records provide exact details on just how many examples of this coin were struck. However, PCGS estimates that approximately 30,000 exist across all grades. A survival figure like that actually points to the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime being a relatively common coin.
It’s certainly a favorite variety among collectors of all levels of experience and budgets, and it’s perhaps the most affordable of the famous U.S. Mint varieties. Yet, its affordability doesn’t make it any less appealing to even the most serious of collectors. Yes, it’s possible to buy a circulated example of the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime for less than $25. However, nice Mint State specimens that may entice PCGS Set Registry members – folks who build the best of the best in coin collections – cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars. PCGS experts suggest that a mere 10% to 12% of 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dimes exhibit Full Split Bands, referring to the horizontal lines in the bands wrapping the fasces device on the reverse.
And consider this: an MS66FB example retails for more than $1,500. And an MS67+FB? That’s a coin exceeding $10,000! But the all-time price record for the 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime goes to a stellar MS68FB specimen that fetched $25,850 in a 2019 auction. Talk about a variety coin for the masses… The 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime offers something for everyone!