Coin collecting has long been a fascinating hobby, with certain rare coins commanding impressive prices. Among the most sought-after pieces in American numismatics are specific dimes and the special Bicentennial quarter.
These coins have captured the attention of collectors and investors alike due to their rarity, historical significance, and market demand.
Let’s look into five rare dimes and the Bicentennial quarter that have become valuable treasures in the numismatic world.
Table of Contents
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest and most valuable American coins. Only 24 of these dimes were minted at the San Francisco Mint, and today, fewer than 10 are confirmed to exist.
Why It’s Valuable
- Extremely low mintage of just 24 coins
- Mystery surrounding its creation (some believe they were struck as test pieces or for bank officials)
- Highly sought after by collectors
Estimated Value: In top condition, this coin has sold for over $1 million, with some exceptional specimens reaching $2 million or more at auction.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly coveted coin. It was minted in Denver, but only 264,000 were produced, making it one of the lowest mintage dimes of the 20th century.
Why It’s Valuable
- First year of the Mercury dime design
- Extremely low mintage compared to other Mercury dimes
- Hard to find in high grades
Estimated Value: Well-preserved examples can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, while uncirculated specimens in MS-65 or higher have been known to exceed $100,000 at auction.
1942/1 Mercury Dime (Overdate)
This unique error coin was created when a 1942 die was mistakenly punched over a 1941 die, leaving a visible remnant of the “1” beneath the “2.” This overdate error occurred at both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, though the Denver version is rarer.
Why It’s Valuable
- Distinct overdate error visible with magnification
- Rare in high-grade condition
- A must-have for error coin collectors
Estimated Value: Depending on condition, these coins can range from a few hundred dollars for lower-grade examples to over $10,000 for high-grade specimens.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
The 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a modern minting error that occurred when proof dimes were struck at the San Francisco Mint without the “S” mint mark. Only a handful of these dimes are known to exist, all found in 1968 proof sets.
Why It’s Valuable
- Proof coin with missing “S” mint mark
- Only a few known specimens
- One of the rarest modern U.S. dimes
Estimated Value: These dimes can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, with some fetching between $20,000 and $30,000 at auction.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Similar to its 1968 counterpart, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is another proof coin struck at the San Francisco Mint without the “S” mint mark. This error makes it one of the rarest dimes in existence.
Why It’s Valuable
- Proof coin missing the “S” mint mark
- Only a few known to exist
- Considered one of the rarest modern U.S. coins
Estimated Value: These dimes are highly sought after, with auction prices sometimes exceeding $50,000 for high-quality specimens.
Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States. While millions were produced, some special versions and error coins have made certain Bicentennial quarters valuable.
Factors That Increase Its Value
- Silver Composition – Some Bicentennial quarters were struck in 40% silver for collector sets, making them more valuable than regular copper-nickel versions.
- Mint State Condition – Uncirculated quarters graded MS-67 or higher can be worth significantly more.
- Errors and Varieties – Minting errors, such as doubled dies or wrong planchet strikes, can greatly increase a quarter’s value.
Estimated Value: Most Bicentennial quarters in circulation are worth face value, but
- Silver versions in uncirculated condition can be worth $10 to $20 or more.
- Extremely rare error coins or highly graded specimens have sold for $5,000 to $10,000 in exceptional cases.
While some exaggerated claims suggest Bicentennial quarters are worth millions, the most valuable ones typically sell for thousands, not millions, of dollars.
Final Thoughts
These five rare dimes and the Bicentennial quarter continue to captivate collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique errors. Whether it’s the legendary 1894-S Barber Dime worth millions, the rare 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, or a Bicentennial quarter with an unusual error, these coins remain highly desirable in the numismatic world.
If you think you may have one of these treasures, consider getting it professionally authenticated and graded—you might be holding a small fortune in your collection.
FAQs
What is the rarest U.S. dime?
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the rarest, with fewer than 10 known.
How much is a 1916-D Mercury Dime worth?
High-grade examples can exceed $100,000 at auction.
What makes a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime valuable?
It was mistakenly struck without an ‘S’ mint mark.
Are Bicentennial quarters worth money?
Most are face value, but silver and error versions can be valuable.
How do I know if my coin is valuable?
Check for errors, mint marks, and have it professionally graded.
