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The Certified Mercury Dime 1940 PF67 NGC CAC is a superbly preserved example of one of America’s most beloved silver coin designs, encapsulated in a near-gem proof state with the added distinction of a CAC (Certified Acceptance Corporation) green sticker. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint during a brief era of prewar proof coinage, this Mercury Dime combines historic significance, exceptional quality, and desirable third-party certification. Graded PF67 by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company), this coin demonstrates strong visual appeal and sharp definition, while the CAC sticker confirms that it is a premium specimen within its grade, meeting strict standards for technical quality and eye appeal.
The obverse features Adolph A. Weinman’s famed Winged Liberty design, often misidentified as Mercury due to the winged cap. Liberty faces left, wearing a Phrygian cap symbolizing freedom of thought. The word “LIBERTY” arches over her head, while “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears to the left, and the date “1940” is placed near the rim below her neck. In PF67 condition, this obverse is sharply struck, with intricate detail visible in Liberty’s hair, facial features, and the feathers of her winged cap. The proof surfaces exhibit bold contrast between mirrored fields and frosted devices, with the CAC seal verifying that the strike and surfaces are top-tier for the assigned grade.
The reverse displays a vertical fasces—a bundle of rods bound together with a protruding axe—representing unity and strength. An olive branch wraps around it, symbolizing peace. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DIME” form a circle around the design, while “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is inscribed to the right of the fasces. In this PF67 specimen, the reverse details are razor-sharp, with no loss of definition in the bundle ties, axe blade, or olive leaves. The mirrored proof fields remain clean and reflective, while the raised elements exhibit a pleasing frost. Any visible marks are minimal and insignificant, as confirmed by the CAC designation.
Composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, the 1940 Proof Mercury Dime weighs 2.5 grams and has a diameter of 17.9 millimeters. It was struck solely at the Philadelphia Mint for inclusion in collector proof sets. The total mintage for the 1940 proof dime was 11,827 pieces, a relatively low figure by modern standards. These coins were not intended for circulation, and though they were distributed directly to collectors, many have since been impaired or mishandled. Well-preserved, high-grade survivors such as this PF67 CAC example are comparatively scarce and continue to attract premium interest in the numismatic market.
The PF67 grade awarded by NGC signifies a coin that is fully struck, with original proof luster and minimal flaws. While some faint hairlines or microscopic contact marks may be present, they are not readily noticeable without magnification and do not impact the coin’s overall appeal. The presence of a CAC sticker indicates that this particular coin was reviewed by an independent numismatic expert and determined to be among the best examples within the PF67 tier. CAC coins consistently bring stronger market demand, as they are perceived as high-end within their certified grade and offer additional confidence to collectors and investors alike.
Visually, a 1940 PF67 Mercury Dime certified by NGC and CAC typically presents rich, watery mirrored fields and attractive cameo contrast, though cameo designation was not formally applied to coins from this era. Some examples may show delicate natural toning in shades of gold, pale blue, or lavender at the rims, especially if stored in original Mint packaging. The intricate detail of the Winged Liberty design is brought to life through the exceptional clarity and depth achieved during the meticulous proof striking process, and this example reflects that process in every way, offering a sophisticated and compelling appearance in hand or in display.
Historically, the 1940 proof Mercury Dime was issued during a time of increasing global tension as World War II escalated in Europe and Asia. Though the United States remained officially neutral, domestic coin production—including proofs—continued. The Mercury Dime proof series ran only from 1936 through 1942, and the program was suspended during the war years, not resuming until 1950 with the Roosevelt dime. These prewar proof coins represent a short and celebrated period in U.S. Mint history when craftsmanship and collector-focused production were revived after a 20-year hiatus in proof issues following 1916.
Today, the Certified Mercury Dime 1940 PF67 NGC CAC is a highly desirable addition to any collection of early 20th-century American coinage. Its low mintage, historic context, and artistic merit make it appealing to both classic coin collectors and investors in high-grade silver. The PF67 grade offers a superb balance between visual perfection and cost, while the CAC endorsement adds an extra level of assurance for quality-conscious buyers. Whether as part of a complete Mercury Dime proof run, a 1940 proof set, or a standalone trophy coin, this 1940 PF67 CAC-certified example is a top-tier selection with enduring value and timeless beauty.