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The Certified Mercury Dime 1938 PF67 NGC CAC is a stunning near-gem example of one of the most beloved designs in American coinage, presented in superb proof condition and distinguished by the CAC (Certified Acceptance Corporation) green sticker. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is part of the short but historically significant series of Mercury Dime proofs produced from 1936 to 1942. Graded Proof 67 by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company), this coin showcases both technical excellence and exceptional visual appeal. The CAC approval further enhances its desirability, indicating that it meets the highest standards within its assigned grade—placing it in the upper echelon of preserved specimens from this pre–World War II proof issue.
The obverse of the 1938 Mercury Dime features Adolph A. Weinman’s celebrated Winged Liberty design, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury but actually a representation of Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. The word “LIBERTY” encircles the upper portion of the coin, with “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date “1938” appearing below the bust. On a PF67 coin, the details are razor-sharp, with each feather in the wing, strand of hair, and facial contour crisply defined. The coin’s deeply mirrored proof fields contrast beautifully with the frosted central devices, a hallmark of high-quality early proof production. The CAC approval confirms that the strike, surfaces, and eye appeal are exceptional for the grade.
The reverse depicts a fasces—a bundle of rods bound by leather with an axe protruding—symbolizing unity and strength, set vertically at the center and flanked by an olive branch representing peace. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DIME” form the circular legend around the image, with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” placed to the right of the fasces. In PF67, the reverse displays full definition in the axe blade, bundle ties, and olive leaves, along with stunning contrast between the fields and devices. Minor hairlines may exist but are few and virtually invisible to the naked eye. The presence of the CAC sticker assures collectors that this particular coin meets or exceeds strict market standards for quality and originality.
The 1938 Mercury Dime was struck only in proof format at the Philadelphia Mint, as were all proofs from 1936 through 1942. Composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, the coin weighs 2.5 grams and measures 17.9 millimeters in diameter. These coins were not made for circulation but instead were sold to collectors as part of annual proof sets. With a total proof mintage of just 8,728 pieces in 1938, this issue is inherently scarce—especially compared to modern proof coinage that is struck in much higher numbers. Of those minted, only a fraction survive in high grades, and far fewer still are certified PF67 with CAC approval, which significantly limits the number of premium examples available to collectors.
The PF67 grade from NGC indicates a superb proof coin with full strike, deep reflectivity, and only a few microscopic flaws that are not readily visible without magnification. These might include faint hairlines or tiny planchet marks in the mirrored fields. Even so, the overall presentation is nearly flawless to the unaided eye. CAC’s green sticker serves as a third-party seal of excellence, confirming that this coin meets rigorous standards for quality within its grade and that it possesses superior eye appeal, original surfaces, and strong technical merit.
Visually, the 1938 Proof Mercury Dime in PF67 typically exhibits dazzling mirror surfaces with rich, frosted devices that create a bold cameo contrast—though the U.S. Mint did not intentionally produce cameo proofs during this era. Some examples may display subtle toning in hues of violet, gold, or blue at the edges, depending on how they were stored over the decades. The depth and clarity of the design elements are especially pronounced on proof issues, giving this coin a crisp, sculptural quality that showcases Weinman’s artistry at its finest.
Historically, the Mercury Dime, issued from 1916 to 1945, is considered one of the most beautiful and iconic coin designs in American history. The proof issues from the late 1930s were part of the Mint’s reintroduction of proof coinage after a hiatus since 1916. These proofs were struck in relatively small numbers and sold directly to collectors as part of annual proof sets. The 1938 proof dime reflects a brief and treasured era in U.S. numismatics, when the Mint was experimenting with high-quality finishes and returning to its tradition of producing special collector coins—just a few years before the outbreak of World War II would again suspend proof coin production.
Today, the Certified Mercury Dime 1938 PF67 NGC CAC stands out as a superior and highly collectible piece for both Mercury Dime specialists and general collectors of 20th-century proof coinage. Its low mintage, classic design, high technical grade, and CAC endorsement all contribute to its elevated status in the numismatic community. It offers an excellent balance between rarity and visual perfection, ideal for inclusion in a top-tier type set, a complete proof Mercury Dime set, or as a highlight in any collection of American silver coins. As a PF67 CAC coin, it combines exceptional preservation with a trusted certification pedigree, ensuring enduring value, liquidity, and collector prestige.