Coin collecting is more than a fun hobby—it can be a profitable venture. Among the treasures numismatists chase, a few rare coins stand out for their incredible value and historical significance. If you happen to stumble upon one of these gems, you might just hit the jackpot.
Let’s look into three exceptional coins: the 1916-D Mercury Dime, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime Proof, and the 1776–1976 Bicentennial Quarter. Each carries a fascinating history and could be worth a small fortune.
Table of Contents
Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a coveted gem among coin enthusiasts. With just 264,000 minted in Denver, it stands as the rarest of all Mercury dimes. Adding to its allure, the 1916-D was among the first of its kind to feature the striking Winged Liberty Head, often associated with the Roman god Mercury.
In pristine condition, this coin fetches astronomical prices. For instance, a piece graded MS-67 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) sold for an incredible $207,000. Owning a well-preserved 1916-D Mercury Dime could significantly boost your net worth.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1916 |
| Mint Location | Denver (D) |
| Total Minted | 264,000 |
| Highest Recorded Value | $207,000 |
No-S Roosevelt Dime
Modern coins can be rare too, and the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime Proof is a shining example. Typically, proof coins from the San Francisco Mint bear an “S” mintmark. However, a few 1975 proof dimes were mistakenly minted without this mark, creating a rarity.
Only two of these error coins are known to exist, making them among the scarcest dimes ever. Observed in proof sets, these dimes now command significant interest and steep prices at auctions. One recently sold for $350,000.
If you’re lucky enough to have a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime Proof in your collection, you could be sitting on a gold mine.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1975 |
| Mint Location | None (No-S error) |
| Known Examples | 2 |
| Highest Recorded Value | $350,000 |
Bicentennial Quarter
The 1776–1976 Bicentennial Quarter commemorates the United States’ 200th anniversary. While millions were produced, a few bear rare errors that make them highly desirable to collectors.
The most notable variants feature doubled dies on the obverse (DDO) or reverse (DDR). This error occurs when the coin design is struck twice, creating a doubled image. These mistake coins can fetch anywhere between $2,000 and $20,000, depending on the extent of the doubling and the coin’s condition.
With their unique history and rarity, Bicentennial Quarters are prized by numismatists and casual collectors alike.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1776–1976 |
| Special Feature | Double-die error (DDO/DDR) |
| Estimated Value Range | $2,000–$20,000 |
Rare coins like these demonstrate the hidden treasures that could be lurking in your collection—or even in your loose change. Whether you’re an avid collector or a casual enthusiast, the thrill of uncovering a valuable piece of history is unparalleled.
FAQs
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime rare?
Only 264,000 were minted, making it the rarest Mercury dime.
How many 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dimes exist?
Only two are known to exist.
What is the value of a doubled-die Bicentennial Quarter?
It can range from $2,000 to $20,000.
What does ‘double-die error’ mean?
It refers to a design struck twice, creating a doubled image.
How much is a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime worth?
It has sold for up to $350,000 at auction.
