When you think of valuable coins, you probably imagine gold or silver pieces. However, there’s a rare class of coins that can fetch staggering prices despite being made of more common metals. Among them are dimes, particularly three that have made headlines for selling at auction for nearly a million dollars each. In this article, we’ll dive into these elusive coins, how to identify them, and why they are worth so much.
The 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is often regarded as one of the most famous and valuable dimes in U.S. history. Only 24 of these coins were minted, and only a handful are known to survive today. The reason for their rarity stems from a production error and the fact that they were mostly sent to be melted down. Most collectors can only dream of finding an 1894-S Barber Dime, but for those lucky enough to have one, it could be worth upwards of $900,000 depending on its condition.
How to Identify It:
The 1894-S Barber Dime features the iconic Barber design with Lady Liberty’s profile and the mintmark “S” for San Francisco. If you come across a dime from this year, check the mintmark carefully—if it’s an “S” and the coin is in excellent condition, you may be holding a small fortune.
The 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another gem that has commanded prices around $900,000. The coin’s rarity stems from the fact that only a small number of these dimes were produced with the “D” mintmark in Denver. It was the first year the Mercury Dime was issued, and its distinctive design, featuring the winged Liberty head, makes it a favorite among collectors.
How to Identify It:
Look for the “D” mintmark on the reverse side, under the olive branch. The 1916-D Mercury Dime is highly prized when in good condition, with high-grade examples easily reaching six figures.
The 1945 Micro S Roosevelt Dime
The 1945 Micro S Roosevelt Dime is not one you’d typically expect to find on a list of high-value coins, but this error coin can bring in over $900,000. It was the result of a minting error, where the “S” mintmark was struck too lightly, leading to a small and almost imperceptible “micro” S. Though the error is subtle, collectors recognize its rarity and value.
How to Identify It:
Examine the mintmark carefully—look for the tiny “S” under Roosevelt’s torch. Only a handful of these dimes are known to exist, making it an incredibly sought-after find.
Dimes are usually seen as modest coins, but the three described here are far from ordinary. Whether it’s the historical significance of the 1894-S Barber Dime, the rare 1916-D Mercury Dime, or the error-prone 1945 Micro S Roosevelt Dime, these coins have become legends in the world of numismatics. Identifying these dimes can be a ticket to a small fortune, but their rarity and distinctive features make them extremely difficult to come by.
FAQ’s:
1. Why are these dimes worth so much?
These dimes are valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, and in some cases, minting errors. They are considered treasures by collectors, making them highly sought after at auctions.
2. How can I tell if I have one of these rare dimes?
Look for key features, such as the mintmark on the 1916-D Mercury Dime or the tiny “micro” S on the 1945 Roosevelt Dime. If you suspect a coin is rare, having it appraised by a professional numismatist is always a good idea.
3. Can I find one of these dimes in circulation?
Finding one of these rare dimes in circulation is extremely unlikely, but it’s not impossible. Many collectors acquire them through auctions or private sales.
4. What’s the best way to store valuable dimes?
Protect these valuable dimes by storing them in a secure, climate-controlled environment. Use protective cases or holders to prevent damage from handling or environmental factors.
5. Are there other dimes worth a lot of money?
Yes, there are other valuable dimes, such as the 1892 and 1893 Barber Dimes and certain 1940s Mercury Dimes with errors. Always research the specific year and mintmark to see if your coin might be worth a significant amount.
