Amazing how this 1942 Mercury Dime shows the wear of the 1917 ,must have been some tough times on the road to here and now giving it personal value for its endurance during WW2 .
I don't find it terribly surprising that a 42 exhibits that much wear. It circulated for at least 22 years before silver was removed. It's not uncommon to see coins of that age show decent wear.
I thought that, perhaps, you may find this enlightening.... https://www.davidlawrence.com/books/the-complete-guide-to-mercury-dimes/ Good luck.
Your evaluation is much appreciated. Better photos in the works with Google microscope . Two 1943 wheat cents steel to be featured. Thanks CoinOp2