Imagine discovering that a simple dime sitting in your coin jar is worth a life-changing $900,000. While most dimes are only worth their face value, a few rare varieties and errors have turned up at auctions, fetching staggering sums. These valuable dimes are not just numismatic treasures—they’re legends among coin collectors. Could you have one of these extraordinary dimes hidden in your change? Here are three examples of dimes that have sold for incredible amounts and tips to help you identify them.
The 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber dime is one of the most famous coins in U.S. history. Only 24 of these dimes were minted at the San Francisco Mint, making them incredibly rare. Legend has it that the coins were created as a special run for VIPs, with some given to mint officials and their families. Today, only about nine are known to exist.
If you have one, you’re in luck—an 1894-S Barber dime sold for $1.3 million at auction. Look for the “S” mintmark below the wreath on the reverse, and check the date. If it matches, get it authenticated immediately.
The 1916-D Mercury Dime (Mint-State Condition)
The 1916-D Mercury dime is another sought-after rarity, especially in mint-state condition. Only 264,000 were minted, making it the lowest mintage of the series. The coin’s design features Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought, and the mintmark “D” for Denver appears on the reverse.
While circulated examples are worth hundreds or thousands, a pristine, mint-state 1916-D Mercury dime can fetch upwards of $900,000 at auction.
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof Coin)
A modern rarity, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt dime is a proof coin accidentally struck without the “S” mintmark that should appear on dimes from the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples are known, making this dime one of the rarest coins in existence.
One of these elusive dimes sold for $456,000, and experts believe a perfect PR70 example could exceed $900,000. Proof coins are typically found in collector sets, so if you’ve inherited an old collection, it’s worth checking!
Dimes are some of the smallest and most unassuming coins, but a rare variety could be hiding immense value. The 1894-S Barber dime, 1916-D Mercury dime, and 1975 No-S Roosevelt dime are extraordinary examples of how a simple coin can hold a fortune. Carefully inspect your coin jar and collections—you could be sitting on a hidden gem worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I identify an 1894-S Barber dime?
Look for the date “1894” and the “S” mintmark on the reverse. Authentic examples are extremely rare.
2. Where is the mintmark on a 1916-D Mercury dime?
The mintmark is located on the reverse, to the left of the fasces (a bundle of rods).
3. What makes the 1975 No-S Roosevelt dime so rare?
It’s a proof coin struck without the “S” mintmark, and only two are known to exist.
4. Should I clean a rare dime before selling it?
No. Cleaning can damage the coin and lower its value. Always keep it in its original state.
5. How can I have my dime appraised?
Take it to a reputable coin dealer or submit it to professional grading services like PCGS or NGC for certification.
