In the numismatic world, error coins like misprinted dimes and nickels are prized for their rarity, captivating stories, and staggering auction values. Minting mistakes, whether due to die errors, overdates, or missing mint marks, make these coins stand out among collectors. Below are seven of the most notable misprinted dimes and nickels that have fetched impressive sums.
Table of Contents
1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is one of the rarest error coins in existence. Typically, proof dimes from the San Francisco Mint bear an “S” mint mark, but in 1975, two dimes were struck without it. This anomaly makes the coin incredibly valuable.
In October 2024, one sold for $506,250, a significant jump from its 1978 purchase price of just $18,200. With only two known examples, this dime is a true numismatic marvel.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is considered one of the rarest U.S. coins. Only 24 were minted, and today, only nine survivors are known. This coin’s mystery and rarity have fueled collector interest for decades.
At auction, the 1894-S Barber Dime has commanded prices exceeding $1.9 million, such as the sale recorded in 2007. Owning one is like holding a piece of numismatic history.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is shrouded in intrigue due to its unauthorized minting. With only five specimens produced, this nickel is an icon in rare coin collecting.
Its extreme scarcity has driven auction prices as high as $3.7 million, reflecting both its historical significance and the mystery of its creation.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel resulted from an overdate error when a 1917 die was repurposed in 1918, causing both dates to appear on the coin. This fascinating error has made it highly sought after.
Top-grade examples have sold for up to $350,750, making this overdate nickel a prized addition to any collection.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is the result of excessive die polishing during minting, which inadvertently removed the front leg of the buffalo on the reverse side. This peculiar mistake turned an otherwise ordinary coin into a collector’s dream.
At auctions, this error nickel has fetched prices up to $99,875, depending on its condition.
1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Another notable error, the 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, lacks the “S” mint mark, which is standard for proof coins from the San Francisco Mint. With fewer than 20 known examples, this coin is a rarity among modern proofs.
These dimes have sold for over $20,000, making them valuable finds for collectors of error coins.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is a famous overdate error where remnants of both 1942 and 1941 appear on the date. This mistake occurred when an old die was overpunched with the new year.
Collectors prize this coin, and high-grade examples have sold for over $100,000, cementing its place as one of the most valuable Mercury Dimes.
| Coin | Description | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt | Missing “S” mint mark; only two known | $506,250 |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | One of nine known survivors; extremely rare | Over $1.9 million |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | Unauthorized minting; only five specimens exist | Up to $3.7 million |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | Overdate error; displays both 1917 and 1918 dates | $350,750 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo | Missing front leg due to die polishing | $99,875 |
| 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt | Missing “S” mint mark; fewer than 20 known | Over $20,000 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | Overdate error; shows both 1942 and 1941 dates | Over $100,000 |
Significant
Error coins like misprinted dimes and nickels are treasures in the numismatic community because they combine history, artistry, and the intrigue of minting mistakes. These anomalies often occur in small numbers, making them exceedingly rare and valuable.
For collectors, finding one of these coins is like discovering hidden treasure. They not only hold historical value but also represent opportunities for significant financial gain.
FAQs
What makes the 1975 No-S Proof Dime rare?
It lacks the ‘S’ mint mark, and only two examples are known.
Why is the 1894-S Barber Dime valuable?
Only nine examples of the 24 originally minted are known to survive.
What is unique about the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
It has a missing buffalo leg due to excessive die polishing.
How much is a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel worth?
It can sell for up to $3.7 million due to its extreme rarity.
What causes overdate errors like the 1942/1 Mercury Dime?
Overdate errors occur when old dies are reused and overpunched with new dates.
