Who's On The Dime? The Story Behind The Coin's Face
Have you ever stopped to wonder who is on the dime? We often handle coins daily, but rarely do we think about the historical figures immortalized on them. The dime, a ubiquitous ten-cent piece in American currency, features a portrait of a significant figure in American history. But who exactly is it? Let's dive into the fascinating story behind the face on the dime.
The Face on the Dime: Franklin D. Roosevelt
The distinguished profile gracing the dime is none other than Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States. Roosevelt, often referred to by his initials FDR, served an unprecedented four terms, leading the nation through some of its most challenging times, including the Great Depression and World War II. His leadership and policies profoundly shaped the 20th century, making him a pivotal figure in American history. The choice to honor Roosevelt on the dime was not arbitrary; it was a tribute to his remarkable contributions and legacy.
Why Roosevelt Was Chosen for the Dime
The decision to place Roosevelt on the dime was primarily driven by two factors: his passing in 1945 and his significant role in the establishment of the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, commonly known as the March of Dimes. Roosevelt himself battled polio, a debilitating disease that affected millions, and his efforts to raise awareness and funds for research and treatment were deeply impactful. Just months after his death, legislation was passed to replace the existing Mercury dime with a new design honoring Roosevelt. This act served as both a memorial to a beloved president and a continuation of his commitment to fighting polio. The dime, therefore, became a symbol of hope and progress in the face of adversity. The public strongly supported this decision, viewing it as a fitting tribute to a leader who had guided the country through immense hardship and inspired a generation.
The Design of the Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt dime, designed by John R. Sinnock, then the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, was first released in 1946. The obverse (front) of the coin features a left-facing profile of Roosevelt, capturing his determined and compassionate demeanor. The words "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST" are inscribed, along with the year of minting. The reverse (back) of the coin initially depicted a torch, an olive branch, and an oak branch, symbolizing peace, victory, and strength, respectively. This design, while symbolic, was relatively simple and straightforward. Over the years, there have been minor variations in the design, particularly in the mint marks, but the central image of Roosevelt has remained consistent. In 1965, the coin's composition changed from 90% silver and 10% copper to a clad composition of copper-nickel, a change driven by rising silver prices. This shift marked a significant alteration in the coin's intrinsic value but did not diminish its symbolic importance. The Roosevelt dime continues to be a recognizable and enduring symbol of American currency and history.
The History of the Dime Before Roosevelt
Before Roosevelt graced the dime, another design held its place: the Mercury dime. Knowing the history of the dime before Roosevelt helps us appreciate the significance of the change and the legacy of the earlier design.
The Mercury Dime (1916-1945)
Prior to 1946, the dime featured a design commonly known as the Mercury dime, though its official name was the Winged Liberty Head dime. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, this coin was minted from 1916 to 1945. The obverse of the Mercury dime depicts a young Liberty wearing a winged Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. The reverse features a fasces, an ancient Roman symbol of authority and unity, along with an olive branch, representing peace. The Mercury dime is considered one of the most beautiful and artistically significant coins in American history. Its intricate design and classical motifs made it a favorite among collectors and the public alike. The term "Mercury dime" is a misnomer, as the figure on the coin is not the Roman god Mercury but rather a representation of Liberty. However, the nickname stuck, and the coin is still widely referred to as the Mercury dime. The design was part of a broader effort to modernize American coinage in the early 20th century, aiming for more artistic and symbolic representations. The Mercury dime's 30-year run was abruptly ended by Roosevelt's death and the subsequent decision to honor him on the coin.
The Significance of the Mercury Dime
The Mercury dime is significant not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its historical context. Minted during World War I and the interwar period, the coin's imagery of liberty and peace resonated deeply with the American public. The winged cap of Liberty symbolized freedom and progress, while the fasces represented strength and unity in a time of global upheaval. The olive branch served as a reminder of the nation's commitment to peace. The Mercury dime's design was also notable for its technical artistry. Weinman's intricate detailing and balanced composition made the coin a miniature masterpiece. Coin collectors often seek out Mercury dimes for their beauty and historical value, and certain rare dates and mint marks can command significant prices. The Mercury dime represents a high point in American coin design and a poignant reflection of the nation's aspirations and values during a turbulent era. Its legacy continues to influence numismatists and artists today.
Fun Facts and Trivia About the Dime
To make our exploration of the dime even more engaging, let's delve into some fun facts and trivia about this humble coin. These tidbits add another layer of appreciation for the dime's history and significance.
