While dimes are often dismissed as just pocket change, a few of them hold substantial value due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical context. These rare dimes can command impressive sums from collectors. You might unknowingly have one in your possession! Let’s delve into eight exceptionally rare dimes that could be worth much more than ten cents.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is among the rarest coins in U.S. history, with only 24 known to have been minted. Due to its extreme rarity, this dime has fetched prices over $1 million at auction, making it a holy grail for coin collectors worldwide.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the most coveted coin in the Mercury dime series. With a limited mintage in Denver, its scarcity has driven its value to over $10,000. Collectors regard this piece as a must-have in a complete Mercury dime set.
3. 1942/1 Mercury Dime
This unique 1942 Mercury Dime is distinguished by an overdate error, where the “1” is faintly visible beneath the “2.” The overdate feature has transformed this coin into a highly desirable collectible, with values surpassing $5,000.
4. 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime
Proof dimes minted in San Francisco typically display an “S” mintmark. However, in 1968, a small batch of proof Roosevelt dimes was mistakenly minted without this mark. Due to its rarity, this coin can fetch over $20,000 in auctions.
5. 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime
Another valuable proof error, the 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime, is incredibly rare and has sold for as much as $450,000. Collectors seek this coin for its high value and the unusual absence of the “S” mintmark.
6. 1982 No P Roosevelt Dime
In 1982, some dimes were mistakenly minted without the “P” mintmark typically placed on coins from Philadelphia. This error, though subtle, has turned these dimes into valuable collectibles with a market value of around $500 or more.
7. 1873 Carson City Dime
The 1873 Carson City Dime, marked by arrows around the date, is a rare and historically significant coin. With limited mintage from the Carson City Mint, it can command prices of $3,000 and higher among collectors.
8. 1921 Mercury Dime
The 1921 Mercury Dime was minted in low numbers following World War I. Its scarcity and historical context make it a sought-after coin that can bring significant value to collectors, with prices typically starting around several hundred dollars and climbing with quality.
| Coin Name | Year of Mint | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | Over $1 million | Extremely limited mintage |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | $10,000+ | Low mintage |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | 1942 | $5,000+ | Overdate error |
| 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | $20,000+ | Missing “S” mintmark |
| 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | $450,000+ | Missing “S” mintmark |
| 1982 No P Roosevelt Dime | 1982 | $500+ | Missing “P” mintmark |
| 1873 Carson City Dime | 1873 | $3,000+ | Arrows around the date |
| 1921 Mercury Dime | 1921 | Varies | Low mintage and historical rarity |
These rare dimes illustrate how a seemingly ordinary coin can become a valuable collectible. If you’re interested in coin collecting, start examining your change—you may find a treasure hiding in plain sight. Each of these dimes tells a unique story, and finding one could be both exciting and profitable.
What makes a dime valuable?
A dime’s value often depends on rarity, historical significance, minting errors, and condition. Rare dimes or those with unique mintmarks tend to be more valuable.
How can I tell if I have a rare dime?
Examine the year, mintmark, and condition. Coins with minting errors, missing mintmarks, or limited production years are often rare. A professional appraisal can confirm its value.
Are all dimes with missing mintmarks valuable?
Not all dimes with missing mintmarks are valuable. Only specific years (e.g., 1968 No S and 1975 No S) are valuable due to known minting errors.