1918-S 10C, FB MS(PCGS#4921)

1918-S 10C, FB MS (PCGS#4921)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: This beautiful upper end Gem sports full, billowy mint luster and a remarkably sharp strike through the centers. As advanced specialists in this series know all too well, peripheral softness can also be a (significant) problem for many better date Mercury dimes. On this 1918-S, however, we note virtually full detail at the borders with most design elements in those areas crisp and distinct from the rims. There is minor softness at the outside of the letters in the word ONE DIME on the reverse, BERT in LIBERTY on the obverse, but this is mentioned solely for accuracy and, in any event, even these letters are fully separated from the rims. Untoned with a lovely bright silver appearance, the significance of this coin will be instantly recognizable to astute Mercury dime enthusiasts.<p>A notorious strike rarity among early date San Francisco Mint issues in this series, survivors of this 19,300,000-piece delivery are seldom offered with Full Bands detail. Additionally, the 1918-S is often poorly struck at the lower crossbands and/or in the date area. None of the typical detractors are seen here, as related above, and with expert surface preservation, as well, this rare PCGS MS-66 FB example is fit for inclusion in the finest Mercury dime set.