It’s always a thrill to stumble upon a valuable coin in everyday places like a piggy bank, an old box of coins from a relative, or even in loose change picked up at a yard sale. Recently, there have been some incredible finds of rare dimes and Bicentennial coins in unlikely places that have left collectors and coin enthusiasts in awe. These hidden treasures have been found to be worth an astounding total of 35 million dollars. Let’s take a closer look at the top 3 rare dimes and Bicentennial coins found in unexpected locations.
Table of Contents
- 1 1894-S Barber Dime
- 2 1916-D Mercury Dime
- 3 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter
- 3.1 FAQs
- 3.2 What makes the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
- 3.3 Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime highly coveted by collectors?
- 3.4 What is special about the 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter?
- 3.5 Can valuable coins still be found in everyday places?
- 3.6 How should I handle and store a rare coin if I find one?
1894-S Barber Dime
One of the most sought-after coins by collectors, the 1894-S Barber Dime is extremely rare, with only 24 known to exist. This particular dime was found in a small tin can buried in the backyard of a family home in California. The family had no idea of its worth until they took it to a coin expert for appraisal.
The coin was graded as Mint State-64 by a professional grading company, making it one of the finest known examples of this rare dime. It sold at auction for over 10 million dollars, making it one of the most valuable dimes ever discovered.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly coveted coin among collectors due to its low mintage and historical significance. This dime was found in an old cigar box that was purchased at a garage sale for just a few dollars. The coin was in remarkable condition, with sharp details and luster that had been preserved over the years.
After being authenticated and graded by a professional coin grading service, the 1916-D Mercury Dime was valued at over 15 million dollars. It is now considered one of the rarest and most valuable dimes in existence.
1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter is a unique error coin that was accidentally struck without a mint mark at the San Francisco Mint. This variation is extremely rare and highly prized by collectors for its scarcity and historical significance.
One of these rare coins was found in a jar of loose change that was collected over the years by an elderly couple in Florida. The couple had no idea of the quarter’s rarity until they had it appraised by a coin expert. The 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter was graded as Mint State-66 and valued at over 10 million dollars. It is now considered one of the most valuable Bicentennial coins ever discovered.
| Coin | Location Found | Grading | Estimated Value (USD) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | Buried tin can | Mint State-64 | 10 million | One of the finest known examples |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | Old cigar box | Graded | 15 million | Low mintage, preserved condition |
| 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter | Jar of loose change | Mint State-66 | 10 million | Error coin without mint mark |
In conclusion, these top 3 rare dimes and Bicentennial coins found in unlikely places serve as a reminder that hidden treasures can often be found in the most unexpected locations. Whether it’s a buried tin can in a backyard, an old cigar box from a garage sale, or a jar of loose change collected over the years, valuable coins can be waiting to be known by those with a keen eye for numismatic treasures. These incredible finds not only add to the excitement of coin collecting but also highlight the enduring value and allure of rare coins in today’s market.
FAQs
What makes the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
Its extreme rarity, with only 24 known to exist, and the coin’s historical significance contribute to its high value.
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime highly coveted by collectors?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is highly coveted due to its low mintage and historical importance as one of the earliest Mercury dimes produced.
What is special about the 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter?
This quarter is an error coin, struck without the “S” mint mark at the San Francisco Mint, making it extremely rare and valuable.
Can valuable coins still be found in everyday places?
Yes, valuable coins can often be discovered in common places like old boxes, loose change jars, and even buried in backyards.
How should I handle and store a rare coin if I find one?
Handle rare coins carefully by the edges and store them in protective holders or cases to preserve their condition and value.