Discover Seven Rare Dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter, Each Valued at $90 Million

Most dimes and quarters within your pockets have their face value. A small proportion has more worth, in fact, running into thousands or even millions of dollars. Even the most basic coins are coveted by collectors and hidden in plain sight. These ordinary change can be transformed into extraordinary treasures. Let’s look at eight pieces that might just turn out to be a fortune.

1894-S Barber Dime

Perhaps the rarest dime in American history is the 1894-S Barber Dime. With a total of 24 minted, less than ten exist today. One such dime has become worth more than $1 million.

“Finding one would be like discovering a piece of U.S. treasure, but not literally,” says Williams.

1916-D Mercury Dime

The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly valuable coin. Minted in Denver, only 264,000 were produced—a remarkably small number. Coins in excellent condition can sell for over $100,000, making this piece a collector’s dream. Look for the “D” mint mark to identify this gem.

1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime

Minted in Carson City, Nevada, the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is easy to identify because of its “CC” mint mark. They are extremely rare, and if found in excellent condition, can sell for up to $50,000 or more. They are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and location.

Error Coins

Error coins often make the most valuable collectibles. The No-S Roosevelt Dimes from 1968 and 1975 are actually perfect examples. These coins, missing the “S” mint mark, are quite rare and can sell for up to $20,000 each.

1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime

The 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime is the very first U.S. coin struck accidentally without a mint mark. Not as valuable as the other rare dimes, still examples that remain in good condition sell for up to $5,000. Just a great piece of minting history.

1955 Roosevelt Dime

The 1955 Roosevelt Dime is known to have a double die error that has clear doubling of its design, most especially with the date. A result of the minting error, it became a collectible coin sometimes sold for as much as $2,000 if well preserved.

1976 Bicentennial Quarter

The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter marks America’s 200th year and finds its niche among quarters. Most are worth 25 cents, but some silver-clad and proof coins can garner prices up to $1,000 and higher.

What Makes These Coins Valuable?

There are several factors that make a coin valuable:

  • Rarity: The fewer coins in existence, the more valuable they are.
  • Condition: Coins with minimal wear fetch higher prices.
  • Historical Significance: Coins tied to important events or eras are highly sought after.
  • Errors: Minting mistakes like missing marks or doubling add significant value.
  • Collector Demand: Strong interest from collectors drives up prices.

How to Check Your Coins

Want to know whether your coin is valuable or not? Follow these steps:

  • Look for rare years and mint marks like “S,” “D,” or “CC.”
  • Check for Errors: There might be something like a double die, missing mark, or other abnormalities.
  • Proper Lighting: Bright light helps in recognizing even the subtlest details.
  • Magnifying Glass: More importantly, use it to focus on intricate details.
  • Compare: Compare your coin with other known examples of rare and valuable coins.

Conservation of Valuable Coins

If you suspect that the coin you find is valuable, handle it carefully.

  • Hold the coin by its edges to avoid touching its surface or put on gloves for protection.
  • Keep it in a protective coin holder.
  • You might want to send it to be professionally graded in order to validate and grade the coin.
  • Write down the coin’s history and authentication.
  • Place it in a safe place.

Current Market Values

CoinEstimated Value
1894-S Barber Dime$1 million+
1916-D Mercury DimeUp to $100,000
1873-CC Seated LibertyUp to $50,000
1968/1975 No-S RooseveltUp to $20,000
1982 No-P Roosevelt DimeUp to $5,000
1955 Roosevelt Double DieUp to $2,000
1976 Bicentennial QuarterUp to $1,000

Knowing one of these coins is rare, but the possibility makes examining your pocket change exciting and worthwhile.

Some change is rare – dimes or quarters, history in a bottle. From a legendary 1894-S Barber Dime, to a rare Bicentennial Quarter, these coins make for masterwork, history and value. That time spent considering your change will be worth knowing when that elusive fortune turns out to be one of those really special pieces hiding in your jar.

FAQs:

What is the rarest dime?

The 1894-S Barber Dime is the rarest, worth over $1 million.

How can I spot a valuable coin?

Check for rare dates, mint marks, and minting errors.

Are error coins valuable?

Yes, errors like missing marks or double dies can add value.

What is a No-S Roosevelt Dime?

A coin missing its San Francisco mint mark, worth up to $20,000.

Leave a Comment