2026 “Best of the Mint” Series

The U.S. Mint has introduced the first coin and medal set in its “Best of the Mint” series: a one-year-only gold Mercury dime and companion 1-ounce silver medal. The announcement on July 4 begins a year-long countdown to the nation’s semiquincentennial in 2026.

The gold coin revives Adolph A. Weinman’s iconic 1916 Mercury dime design in which Liberty is shown wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. Struck in .9999-fine gold, the reissue bears its original date alongside a special Liberty Bell privy mark with the number “250,” honoring the anniversary of United States’ founding in 1776.

Accompanying the gold coin is a silver medal that features a modern depiction of Liberty shaped by the Mercury dime era (1916-45)—a time period marked by the Depression, two world wars, economic struggle, and resilience. A poised Liberty holds a sword radiating hope, set against images of Hooverville shacks and Dust Bowl winds.

This limited-edition set is the first of five historic reissues planned for the semiquincentennial. The U.S. Mint plans to reveal a new design each month that blends numismatic history with modern artistry.