Finding a valuable coin in a seemingly ordinary place is a thrill every coin collector dreams of. Recently, some astonishing discoveries of rare dimes and Bicentennial coins have surfaced, hidden in everyday locations and worth a collective $35 million. These remarkable finds serve as a reminder that hidden treasures can often be tucked away in the most unexpected places, waiting to be uncovered by sharp-eyed collectors and enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at the top three valuable coins unearthed in surprising spots.
1. The 1894-S Barber Dime
One of the most coveted coins in numismatic circles, the 1894-S Barber Dime is highly prized due to its extreme rarity, with only 24 examples known to exist. This particular coin was discovered inside a small tin can buried in the backyard of a California family home.
The family, unaware of the coin’s potential worth, brought it to an expert for evaluation, where it was graded as Mint State-64 by a professional grading company, making it one of the finest 1894-S Barber Dimes in existence. At auction, it sold for over $10 million, becoming one of the most valuable dimes ever discovered.
2. The 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly prized coin due to its limited mintage and historical significance. This rare coin was found tucked away in an old cigar box purchased at a garage sale. Despite being stored in a simple box for years, the coin remained in remarkable condition, showcasing sharp details and impressive luster.
After professional authentication and grading, this 1916-D Mercury Dime received a valuation exceeding $15 million, marking it as one of the rarest and most valuable dimes available to collectors.
3. The 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter
An unusual find in U.S. coinage, the 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter is a rare error coin struck without a mint mark by the San Francisco Mint. This coin’s rarity and unique error status make it highly desirable among collectors. One of these rare quarters was found by an elderly couple in Florida in a jar of loose change collected over the years.
The couple, unaware of its value, had the coin appraised by a numismatic expert, where it was graded as Mint State-66 and valued at over $10 million. The 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter is now one of the most prized Bicentennial coins discovered to date.
| Coin Name | Year | Discovery Location | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | Tin Can, Backyard | $10 million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Cigar Box, Garage Sale | $15 million |
| 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Jar of Loose Change | $10 million |
These incredible finds serve as powerful reminders of the potential value hidden in ordinary places. Whether stashed in an old tin can, tucked inside a garage sale purchase, or resting in a jar of loose change, these coins prove that valuable treasures can be closer than we think. So, the next time you sift through loose change or open an old box of coins, take a closer look—you just might discover a piece of history with a surprising worth.
What makes the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
The 1894-S Barber Dime’s value lies in its rarity, with only 24 minted and only a few in excellent condition, which makes it a highly sought-after item for collectors.
How can I tell if I have a valuable coin?
Checking for unusual mint marks, rare years, or distinct errors can help. For confirmation, take the coin to a professional grading service or coin expert.
Why is the 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter rare?
This coin is an error piece struck without the “S” mint mark at the San Francisco Mint, making it a rare and valuable find among Bicentennial coins.