Finding a valuable coin in an unexpected place—like a piggy bank, an old family coin box, or loose change from a yard sale—can be thrilling. In recent months, collectors and coin enthusiasts have been stunned by the finding of rare dimes and Bicentennial coins in the most surprising locations. These hidden treasures have a combined value of $35 million. Let’s look into three standout coins that emerged from obscurity to become extraordinary finds.
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Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is among the rarest coins ever minted, with only 24 known examples. Collectors cherish this coin, and one recent find made headlines. A family in California observed the dime in a small tin can buried in their garden. Oblivious to its value, they consulted a coin expert, who revealed its astonishing worth.
Graded Mint State-64, this Barber Dime is one of the finest examples known. At auction, it fetched more than $10 million, cementing its place as one of the most expensive dimes ever unearthed.
| Coin | Mint | Known Examples | Value at Auction |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | San Francisco | 24 | $10 million |
Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly coveted coin, famous for its limited production and historical significance. One of these rare dimes turned up in the most unlikely place—an old cigar box purchased for a few dollars at a garage sale.
The dime’s condition was remarkable, retaining its luster and detail after years of being tucked away. Once graded by a professional service, it was authenticated and valued at over $15 million, making it one of the rarest and most expensive dimes in history.
Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 No-S Bicentennial Quarter is a rare error coin that lacks the “S” mint mark, distinguishing it from standard Bicentennial quarters. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, this version is extremely scarce. A Florida resident observed one of these treasures in a jar of loose change that had been sitting unnoticed for years.
After an expert evaluation, the quarter was graded Mint State-66 and valued at more than $10 million. This find is now regarded as one of the most valuable Bicentennial coins ever observed.
| Coin Type | Mint Error | Grade | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | No “S” Mint Mark | MS-66 | $10 million |
These incredible findings prove that valuable coins can appear in the most ordinary places. If you have a jar of old coins or an inherited collection, take a closer look—you might uncover a fortune hidden in plain sight.
FAQs
How rare is the 1894-S Barber Dime?
Only 24 examples are known to exist.
What made the 1916-D Mercury Dime valuable?
Its rarity and historical significance make it worth over $15 million.
What is special about the 1976 No-S Bicentennial Quarter?
It lacks the ‘S’ mint mark, making it extremely rare.
Where was the Barber Dime found?
It was found in a tin can buried in a garden in California.
Can loose change be valuable?
Yes, rare coins have been found in jars of loose change.
