In the world of numismatics, some coins stand out not just for their beauty or age but for their sheer rarity and astronomical value. Among these, dimes—those small, everyday coins—have some of the most valuable specimens ever observed.
Today, we look into the top five rare dimes, whose combined value reaches an astonishing $9.3 million.
Table of Contents
1894-S Barber
Estimated Value: $2,000,000
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the crown jewel of rare dimes. Minted in San Francisco in 1894, only 24 of these dimes were ever produced, making them one of the most sought-after coins in American history.
Today, only nine examples are known to exist, and their rarity has driven their value to incredible heights. In 2016, one specimen sold for nearly $2 million, setting a record for dimes.
This coin features the classic Barber design, with Liberty’s head on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse. However, what makes it truly special is its mysterious history.
One famous story suggests that the San Francisco Mint superintendent gave three of these dimes to his daughter, who unknowingly spent one on ice cream. Whether true or not, the legend adds to the coin’s allure and value.
1796 Draped Bust
Estimated Value: $1,800,000
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime is a piece of American history. As the very first dime ever produced by the United States Mint, it holds immense historical significance.
Designed by Robert Scot, this dime features a portrait of Liberty on the obverse and a small eagle on the reverse. The small eagle design was only used for two years before being replaced, adding to its rarity.
The finest known example, graded MS-67, sold for $1.32 million in 2016. However, given its historical importance and increasing demand for rare coins, experts estimate that its current value could easily reach $1.8 million or more.
1873-CC No Arrows
Estimated Value: $2,500,000
The 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime is a true numismatic unicorn. Minted in Carson City, this coin was supposed to be completely destroyed when the weight standard for dimes changed that year. However, one specimen somehow survived, making it the only known example in existence.
The sole surviving coin was last sold in 2012 for $1.84 million. With growing interest in rare numismatics, experts now value it at approximately $2.5 million.
Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this dime features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole with a liberty cap. The reverse shows a wreath encircling the words “ONE DIME.” But its value isn’t in the design—it’s in the fact that it is the only surviving example of a coin that was supposed to be extinct.
1975 No S Roosevelt
Estimated Value: $500,000
Not all valuable coins come from the distant past. The 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime is a modern rarity that commands an impressive price.
This dime was part of the 1975 proof set but was mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark, which should have indicated it was made at the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest modern coins.
In 2019, one of these dimes sold for $456,000. With growing interest in error coins and modern rarities, experts estimate its value at around $500,000 today.
What makes this coin especially intriguing is that it’s a proof coin, meaning it was intended to be a flawless collector’s piece. The fact that such an error slipped through quality control—and that only two coins escaped detection—makes it one of the most unique dimes ever struck.
1822 Capped Bust
Estimated Value: $2,500,000
The 1822 Capped Bust Dime is one of the most mysterious coins in American numismatics. No business strike examples are known to exist, and only three proof specimens have been confirmed.
The last recorded sale of an 1822 Capped Bust Dime was in 2016, when a Proof-66 specimen sold for $440,625. However, given its extreme rarity and increasing demand, experts believe that if one of these coins were to come to market today, it could fetch as much as $2.5 million.
Designed by John Reich, this coin features a portrait of Liberty wearing a cap on the obverse, while the reverse shows an eagle with a shield on its chest. However, it’s not the design but the mystery and extreme rarity that drive its value.
The Value of Rarity
These five rare dimes prove that even the smallest coins can carry enormous value. Whether due to their history, minting errors, or sheer scarcity, these dimes have become treasures of the numismatic world.
Their combined worth of $9.3 million highlights the fascinating and lucrative world of rare coin collecting. If you ever come across an old dime, take a closer look—you might just be holding a fortune.
FAQs
How many 1894-S Barber Dimes exist today?
Only nine examples are known to exist.
Why is the 1873-CC No Arrows Dime so valuable?
It is the only known surviving example of its kind.
What makes the 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime rare?
Only two proof examples are known to exist.
How much did the 1796 Draped Bust Dime sell for?
A top specimen sold for $1.32 million in 2016.
What is the estimated value of the 1822 Capped Bust Dime?
Experts estimate it could be worth $2.5 million.
