Top 10 Most Valuable Dime Coins You Need to Know About – A Collector’s Dream

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By: Anushka

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Dime coins, though often considered small change, can carry monumental value in the world of numismatics. From rare minting errors to limited editions, certain dimes fetch astronomical prices, leaving collectors eager to add them to their treasure troves. Let’s look into the history of the most expensive dimes ever sold and uncover what makes them so valuable.

1860-O Seated Liberty Dime, MS67

The 1860-O dime is one of the rarest coins from the New Orleans Mint, with only 40,000 produced and about 400 surviving today.

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  • Mint Mark: New Orleans
  • Grade: MS67
  • Last Sale Price: $192,000 (August 2022)
  • Current Value: $225,000 (PCGS Estimate)

The limited production and rarity of mint state coins make this a coveted piece. Its historical value is further enhanced by its exceptional condition.

1843-O Seated Liberty Dime, MS66

This Seated Liberty dime hails from a time of reduced coin production in New Orleans, with only about 200 coins surviving today.

  • Mint Mark: New Orleans
  • Grade: MS66
  • Last Sale Price: $29,700 (1996)
  • Current Value: Over $250,000 (PCGS Estimate)

The scarcity of mint state examples and its historical context make this coin particularly desirable.

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1916-D Mercury Dime Full Band, MS67

One of the most famous Mercury dimes, the 1916-D from Denver had a limited mintage of just 264,000 coins.

  • Mint Mark: Denver
  • Grade: MS67
  • Value: Estimated at $250,000

The “Full Band” designation, indicating sharp details on the fasces bands, adds to its rarity and allure.

1797 Draped Bust Dime, 16 Stars, MS66

The Draped Bust dimes of 1797 are known for their historical significance, representing the early years of U.S. coinage.

  • Stars: 16
  • Grade: MS66
  • Last Sale Price: $199,750 (2015)
  • Current Value: $275,000 (PCGS Estimate)

Coins with the original 16 stars are exceptionally rare, as the design was quickly revised to feature 13 stars.

1975 No S Roosevelt Dime, Proof, PR68

This modern proof dime is an anomaly, with no “S” mintmark, a rarity in San Francisco-minted proofs.

  • Mint Mark: None (Error)
  • Grade: PR68
  • Last Sale Price: $456,000 (2019)

Only two of these error coins are known to exist, making them exceedingly valuable.

1822 Capped Bust Dime, Proof, PR66+ Cameo

Capped Bust dimes were minted between 1820 and 1837, with proof coins being especially rare.

  • Grade: PR66+ Cameo
  • Last Sale Price: $440,625 (2014)
  • Current Value: $600,000

The glossy fields and frosted devices of cameo proofs enhance their visual appeal and value.

1796 Draped Bust Dime, MS66+

The first-ever U.S. dimes, produced in 1796, are a cornerstone of numismatic history.

  • Grade: MS66+
  • Last Sale Price: $372,000 (2023)

An MS68 example of this coin is valued at $1.25 million, showcasing its unparalleled rarity.

1820 Capped Bust Dime, Proof, PR66

Though its proof status is debated, the 1820 Capped Bust dime remains a significant coin.

  • Grade: PR66
  • Last Sale Price: $156,000 (2019)

Its rarity and controversy contribute to its appeal among collectors.

What Makes These Dimes Valuable?

  1. Rarity: Coins with limited production or surviving examples fetch higher prices.
  2. Condition: Mint state or proof coins in excellent grades are significantly more valuable.
  3. Historical Significance: Coins from key historical periods or unique designs attract collectors.
  4. Errors: Minting mistakes, like the 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime, can command premium prices.

Dime collecting proves that even the smallest coins can hold immense historical and monetary value.

FAQs

What makes a dime valuable?

Rarity, condition, and historical significance increase value.

What is the most expensive dime ever sold?

A 1796 Draped Bust Dime valued at $1.25 million.

What does MS67 mean for coins?

MS67 is a high mint state grade indicating excellent condition.

Why are Mercury dimes collectible?

Their unique design and limited mintage make them popular.

What is a proof coin?

A proof coin is a specially minted coin with a high-quality finish.

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