NGC NGC US Type Coins & Varieties

Question 1

Which US coin series is commonly known as the 'Mercury' dime, despite featuring Liberty rather than Mercury?

Accepted Answer

Winged Liberty Head Dime

Answer

The Winged Liberty Head Dime (1916–1945) was misidentified by the public as Mercury due to the winged cap on Liberty's head.

Question 2

In NGC grading, what does the designation 'PF' indicate on a certified coin label?

Accepted Answer

Proof

Answer

NGC uses 'PF' to designate Proof coins, which are specially struck for collectors using polished dies and planchets.

Question 3

What is the primary difference between a business strike and a proof coin in US coinage?

Accepted Answer

Striking method and die preparation

Answer

Proof coins are struck using specially prepared, polished dies and planchets with multiple blows, unlike regular business strikes.

Question 4

The 1916-D Mercury Dime is considered rare primarily because of its:

Accepted Answer

Low mintage of approximately 264,000 coins

Answer

The 1916-D Mercury Dime had a mintage of only about 264,000, making it one of the key dates in the series.

Question 5

Which term describes a coin struck from dies that show evidence of the hub being pressed into the die more than once in a misaligned position?

Accepted Answer

Doubled die

Answer

A doubled die results when the hub is impressed into the working die more than once at slightly different angles or positions.

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