Created by renowned sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, the Mercury Dime obverse features Liberty in a winged cap—symbolizing freedom of thought—a bold, modern image as the U.S. stood on the brink of entering World War I. On the reverse is a fasces (a bundle of rods tied around an axe) and an olive branch. The two symbols represented America’s military readiness and the desire for peace.

The coins bear a special Semiquincentennial Liberty Bell privy mark with the numeral “250.” Each coin has a 1 oz. silver companion medal, featuring new and modern designs, inspired by the 24-karat gold coins.