What Makes It a “Micro‑S” Variety
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The Micro‑S variety features a smaller San Francisco “S” mintmark, struck using a wartime-era punch originally made for Philippine coinage—resulting in a noticeably diminutive and perfectly centered mintmark on the reverse
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This subtle mintmark difference was discovered around 1947 and is unique to 1945-S Mercury dimes .
Specifications & Mintage
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Date: 1945
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Mint: San Francisco (S mintmark — Micro‑S variety)
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Mintage: 41,920,000 total dimes; Micro‑S portion estimated at around 30,000 surviving examples
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Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
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Weight: 2.50 grams
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Diameter: 17.9 mm
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Edge: Reeded
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Designer: Adolph A. Weinman
Grade: NTC MS66
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MS66 indicates a Mint State coin with strong strike, full luster, and minimal contact marks.
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Despite being graded by NTC, a lesser-known grading service, a clean MS66 Micro‑S variety can still command premium collector interest—especially with diagnostic traits intact.
Key Diagnostic & Desirability Factors
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Mintmark clarity: The crisp, tiny “S” is central to identification.
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Full bands (FB): Bands on the reverse’s fasces should be fully visible—this greatly enhances value, especially in MS66 condition
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Scarcity in higher grades: While Micro‑S coins are relatively accessible, MS66+ Full Bands examples are rare and highly sought after
