7 Rare Dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter That Could Be Worth Millions
Some coins are more than just small pieces of metal—they are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Among these, seven rare dimes and a special Bicentennial Quarter have captivated collectors and investors. Some of these valuable coins may still be in circulation, meaning you could unknowingly have one in your possession.
Let’s explore these rare finds and their incredible values.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatic history.
Historical Background
Only 24 of these dimes were minted in San Francisco during a period of economic uncertainty. The reason for their limited production remains a mystery, with theories suggesting they were test pieces or special presentation coins.
Value and Rarity
- Only 9 are known to exist today.
- A pristine 1894-S Barber Dime has sold for over $1.9 million at auction.
Identifying Features
- Look for the “S” mint mark below the wreath on the reverse side.
- The obverse features Liberty’s head facing right, designed by Charles E. Barber.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a rare key date coin and a dream find for collectors.
Historical Significance
- It was part of the first Mercury Dime series, which replaced the Barber Dime.
- The Denver Mint produced only 264,000 of these coins, making them extremely rare.
Value and Collectibility
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Uncirculated | Over $100,000 |
Key Identifiers
- The small “D” mint mark is located near the bottom of the reverse side.
- The obverse features the “winged Liberty” design, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury.
1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is one of the rarest dimes ever minted.
Historical Context
- The Carson City Mint produced relatively few coins, making them highly valuable today.
Rarity and Value
- Only 12,400 were minted, and even fewer have survived.
- A well-preserved 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime can be worth over $50,000.
Distinguishing Features
- The reverse side has a “CC” mint mark below the wreath.
- The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
This modern rarity was created due to a minting error, making it one of the most valuable dimes.
The Error
- Proof coins from San Francisco should have an “S” mint mark. However, some 1975 proof dimes were mistakenly struck without it.
Value
- A pristine condition 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime has sold for over $500,000.
How to Identify
- Found in 1975 proof sets with a mirror-like finish but no “S” mint mark below Roosevelt’s bust.
1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
This modern minting mistake resulted in a missing mint mark, making it valuable.
The Mistake
- In 1980, the Philadelphia Mint started using the “P” mint mark on all coins except pennies. However, some 1982 dimes were struck without it.
Market Value
- A well-preserved 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime can be worth several thousand dollars.
Identification Tips
- Look for 1982 dimes without a mint mark—the absence of the “P” makes this coin special.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Another proof set minting error makes the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime a highly desirable collector’s item.
Background
- Like the 1975 No-S dime, this proof coin was struck without the expected “S” mint mark.
Value in the Market
- A 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime in excellent condition can be worth over $20,000.
How to Spot It
- Found in 1968 proof sets with a proof finish but no “S” mint mark.
1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate
This rare wartime minting error resulted in an unusual overdate.
Historical Context
- During World War II, a 1941 die was mistakenly used to strike some 1942 dimes, creating a visible overdate error.
Collector’s Value
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $500 – $5,000 |
| Uncirculated | $10,000+ |
Identifying Marks
- Look closely at the date—traces of a “1” can be seen under the “2” in 1942.
Bicentennial Quarter (1776-1976)
While most Bicentennial Quarters are common, some rare variations are worth thousands—or even millions.
Historical Significance
- These quarters were minted in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary.
- The reverse features a colonial drummer, and the obverse bears the dual date 1776-1976.
Valuable Variations
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| 40% Silver Quarters | Up to $7,000+ (uncirculated) |
| Minting Errors (Double-strikes, wrong planchets, off-center errors) | Thousands to millions |
| Perfect Uncirculated Condition | Higher than face value |
Value Range
- Most circulated Bicentennial Quarters are only worth 25 cents.
- However, rare error variations have sold for thousands or even millions.
Could You Have One of These Coins?
If you come across an old dime or quarter, it’s worth checking for these rare varieties. Whether it’s the historical 1894-S Barber Dime or a modern error like the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, these small coins can be worth a life-changing fortune.
Check your coin collection carefully—you might be holding onto a hidden treasure.
FAQs
The 1894-S Barber Dime, with only 9 known to exist, is the rarest.
In pristine condition, it can sell for over $500,000.
Most are common, but rare variations with errors or silver content can be worth thousands.
Look closely at the date—traces of a “1” appear under the “2” in 1942.
Auction houses, coin dealers, and online marketplaces are good options.
