by CoinWeek…
As the United States gears up to celebrate its Semiquincentennial in 2026, the United States Mint is set to release a series of special numismatic offerings, and among the most anticipated is the 2026 Mercury Dime Collector Set. This release is part of the “Best of the Mint” series, a five-part collection that will reintroduce beloved historic U.S. coin designs in 24-karat gold, each paired with a newly designed silver medal.
The 2026 Mercury Dime set will be the inaugural offering in this exciting series, bringing back Adolph A. Weinman’s iconic Winged Liberty Head design, more commonly known as the Mercury Dime. First introduced in 1916, this design, symbolizing freedom of thought, graced the nation’s dimes through a period of immense change, including the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and two World Wars, before its retirement in 1945.
For its 2026 revival, the Mercury Dime will be struck as a 1/10 oz .9999 fine gold coin. Notably, this gold coin will bear its original issue date and a unique “250” Liberty Bell privy mark, commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
Complementing this exquisite gold coin will be a one-ounce silver medal. This medal is not a mere reproduction but a modern interpretation of Weinman’s classic elements. The U.S. Mint describes its design as “Liberty posed in both defensive and offensive stances, while rays of hope extend from the sword – symbolizing the promise of peace. In the background, Hooverville shacks and swirling Dust Bowl winds echo the economic hardships of the time.” This intricate design aims to tell “a powerful story of a nation enduring, evolving, and emerging stronger.”
The “Best of the Mint” series is a direct result of public input, with designs chosen from a survey of historic U.S. coins. Further details regarding the release schedule and pricing for this and other “Best of the Mint” sets are expected to be unveiled by the U.S. Mint throughout the lead-up to 2026.
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Coin Week is my favorite numismatist..magazine( I am having trouble with my phone and keyboard. I need to change my screen protector )
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So why did the mint put aquaman with a winged hat on the alleged commemorative of the Mercury dime? Why is he vanquishing a city with a…sword?! AW is rolling over in his grave.
So what does aquaman, wearing wings on his helmet, and attacking a city with his sword have to do with the original and incredible Mercury dime design? They need to hire REAL artists at the mint instead of using 8th grade art class students. This is totally ridiculous compared to the REAL art Weinman originally was able to produce for coin designs. Weinman is rolling over in his grade at this farce. AI literally could do a MUCh better job and cost nothing instead of paying some wannabe artist money for this kind of sub-par design. What a slap in the face to the original.