1916-D Mercury Dime. AU-53 (NGC).A very handsome example of this coveted issue with rich olive and gold toning in the protected areas on each side. The patina is otherwise a pleasant dove-grey, with bold and evenly worn devices throughout. With only 264,000 pieces produced, the 1916-D has the lowest mintage and is the undisputed key date issue in the circulation strike Mercury dime series. The entire mintage was released in November 1916, after which the Denver Mint received orders from Mint Director F.J.H. von Engelken to suspend dime coinage and concentrate on quarters. Most examples are heavily worn or with problems, emphasizing the important opportunity presented by this sharp and attractive example.
