$13,200 Rarity: The “IN GOO L’TRUST” Mercury Dime That Defies Logic

How a 1940s Mint Error Became a Collector’s Dream

The Coin That Shouldn’t Exist

Among Mercury dimes (1916–1945), one stands out as a true oddity—an error dime where the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is transformed into “IN GOO L’TRUST.”

Key diagnostics collectors look for:

“IN GOO L’TRUST” – die crack obscures the word God
“VIS TRUST” – ghost motto from a misaligned secondary strike
Weight anomaly – 2.27g–2.48g (vs. standard 2.50g)
Only 4–6 verified examples exist, cementing its status as an ultra-rarity

Historical Context

Era: Early 1940s, peak Mercury dime production
How It Happened:
- Cracked die caused fractured lettering
- Grease-filled grooves erased part of the motto
- Double strike left faint “VIS TRUST” shadows

This rare combination created one of the most dramatic—and coveted—mint errors in U.S. coinage.

Authentication Checklist

Genuine Traits:
Weight off-standard (2.27g–2.48g)
Tapered die fractures in motto
Weak reverse rim around fasces

Red Flags:
Perfect 2.50g weight (too normal)
Fully intact “WE” in motto
No ghost doubling on reverse

Market Value (2024 Estimates)

Grade	Description	Value Range
VG-8	Heavy wear, error still visible	$5,000–$7,000
XF-40	Moderate wear, strong detail	$9,000–$11,000
AU-55	Light wear, partial luster	$12,000–$15,000

Auction Highlight: $13,200 realized for an XF-45 specimen (Heritage, Jan 2023).

Why This Error Brings Premiums

Series Popularity: Mercury dimes have a cult following
Triple Error: Die break + grease fill + double strike = extreme rarity
Pedigree Boost: Coins traced to the Johnston Hoard bring 20% premiums

Selling Your Error Dime?

Grade First: Submit to PCGS or NGC with Mint Error designation (fees ~$150).
Auction Placement: Major houses like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers attract top buyers.
Document Provenance: Link it to the known error population for maximum credibility.