Imagine pulling out some spare change, only to discover that a simple dime could be worth a small fortune. While most dimes are worth only ten cents, certain rare varieties and error coins have fetched hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction. In this article, we’ll explore which types of dimes are worth big money, how to identify them, and how you might stumble upon one of these valuable treasures.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber dime is one of the rarest and most coveted dimes for collectors, with only 24 minted at the San Francisco Mint, and fewer than 10 are believed to exist today. Some of these dimes are believed to have been given as gifts to bankers and other important figures, making them exceedingly rare and valuable. When one of these coins appears at auction, it’s often valued between $1 million and $2 million, making it one of the most expensive dimes in existence. However, even finding a worn example could bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
A small, yet highly valuable error occurred with some 1968 proof dimes, which were minted in San Francisco without the “S” mintmark. These “No-S” dimes were part of special proof sets intended for collectors, and only a few made it into circulation. If you have a 1968 proof set missing the “S” on the dime, you might be looking at a coin worth $25,000 to $50,000, depending on its condition.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Another highly valuable minting error occurred with the 1975 proof dimes, which, like the 1968 error, were accidentally struck without the “S” mintmark. This mistake is even rarer than the 1968 No-S, with only a few known examples. In 2019, a 1975 No-S dime sold for $456,000 at auction, making it one of the most valuable modern coins. It’s likely that any existing examples will continue to fetch high prices from collectors.
While dimes may seem like the least valuable coins in your pocket, certain rare varieties could be worth a life-changing amount. If you’re curious about the dimes in your change jar or proof set collection, take a closer look. Who knows—you might just uncover a valuable piece of history worth $250,000 or more!
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my 1968 or 1975 dime is a “No-S” version?
The “No-S” versions are proof coins, typically found in sealed proof sets. Check for the absence of an “S” mintmark on the front.
2. Are there other rare dimes I should look for?
Yes, dimes from various years can hold value, especially those with minting errors or low mintages, such as the 1916-D Mercury dime and the 1894-S Barber dime.
3. Where can I sell a rare dime?
You can sell it at auction houses specializing in coins, reputable coin dealers, or through online marketplaces. Get a professional appraisal first.
4. Why are “No-S” dimes so valuable?
These dimes were minted in error, making them very rare. Collectors value the uniqueness and rarity, driving up their prices at auctions.
5. How should I handle and store valuable dimes?
To preserve their condition, avoid touching the surfaces and store them in protective coin holders or cases, ideally in a dry, stable environment.
