Most people overlook dimes, treating them as small change. However, some dimes have sold for as much as $160,000 or more, turning a simple 10-cent coin into a life-changing discovery. Whether due to rare minting errors, limited production, or high collector demand, certain dimes are worth a fortune. You might even have one hiding in your collection! Here are three dimes that have sold for massive prices—and how you can check if you own one.
1. 1916-D Mercury Dime – Sold for Over $160,000
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most valuable dimes in U.S. history. It was minted at the Denver Mint, but only 264,000 were produced—one of the lowest mintage figures for a dime. Because most were heavily circulated, finding one in mint condition is incredibly rare. A high-grade 1916-D Mercury Dime has sold for over $160,000 at auction. If you have a 1916 dime, look for the small “D” mintmark on the back—if it’s there, you might own a valuable treasure!
2. 1894-S Barber Dime – Sold for Over $1.5 Million
One of the rarest and most famous dimes ever, the 1894-S Barber Dime, was minted in San Francisco, with only 24 coins ever made. Today, only nine are known to exist, making it a dream find for collectors. While lower-grade versions have sold for six figures, a mint-condition 1894-S Barber Dime has sold for over $1.5 million! This coin is almost impossible to find, but checking inherited collections and estate sales might yield a surprise.
3. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Sold for Over $500,000
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a rare error coin that was accidentally struck without the “S” mintmark on proof coins made at the San Francisco Mint. Only two confirmed examples exist, making it one of the rarest modern dimes. One of these dimes sold for $456,000 in 2019, and experts believe others may still be undiscovered. If you have a 1975 proof set, check the dime—if it’s missing the “S” mintmark, you could be holding a fortune!
While most dimes are only worth their face value, these three rare dimes—the 1916-D Mercury Dime, 1894-S Barber Dime, and 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime—have sold for astonishing prices. If you own an old coin collection, inherited dimes, or proof sets, carefully examine them. You might unknowingly possess a life-changing coin. If you suspect you have a rare dime, get it authenticated by a professional coin grading service before selling!
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my dime is valuable?
Check for rare dates, mintmarks, and errors using a magnifier or a professional coin guide. Rare dimes are usually authenticated by PCGS or NGC.
2. Where can I find rare dimes?
Search through old collections, bank coin rolls, proof sets, and estate sales. Rare dimes have been found in loose change as well!
3. Should I clean my dime before selling it?
No! Cleaning a rare coin can lower its value significantly. Always leave it in its original condition.
4. Where can I sell a valuable dime?
Sell through professional coin dealers, auction houses, or online marketplaces like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers.
5. What is the best way to store a rare dime?
Keep rare dimes in airtight holders or certified slabs to prevent damage, and store them in a cool, dry place.
