Dimes may seem like small change, but some have sold for millions of dollars, turning lucky collectors into instant millionaires. Over the years, a few rare dimes have shattered records at auctions due to their rarity, historical significance, and minting errors. In this article, we’ll explore the most expensive dimes ever sold, including the jaw-dropping amounts they fetched and what made them so valuable. Could you have one of these hidden treasures in your collection?
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – Sold for $1.99 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest U.S. coins ever produced. Only 24 dimes were minted in San Francisco, and fewer than 10 are known to exist today. These dimes were likely struck as special gifts for bankers and VIPs. In 2016, a collector paid an astounding $1.99 million for one of these rare dimes in near-perfect condition, making it one of the most expensive dimes ever sold.
2. 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime – Sold for $1.84 Million
This dime is special because of its Carson City mintmark (CC) and the fact that almost all of them were melted down after production. Only one known example of the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime exists today, making it a true one-of-a-kind coin. At a major auction, it sold for $1.84 million, proving that extreme rarity drives up a coin’s value.
3. 1796 Draped Bust Dime – Sold for $881,250
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime was among the very first dimes ever minted in the U.S. What makes this coin unique is its small mintage of just 22,135 coins and its connection to early American history. A pristine version of this dime, with its bold design and original luster, fetched $881,250 at auction, setting a new record for early U.S. dimes.
The world of rare dimes is filled with surprises, and these record-breaking sales prove that a small coin can bring in a huge fortune. Whether it’s the 1894-S Barber Dime, the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime, or the 1796 Draped Bust Dime, history and rarity have made them some of the most sought-after coins in numismatic history. If you’re a collector, you never know when a valuable dime might appear—so always check your change carefully!
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my dime is valuable?
Look for key dates, mint marks, rare errors, or low mintage numbers. Having your coin graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC can also help determine its true value.
2. Why are some dimes worth millions of dollars?
Coins with low mintage, historical significance, or rare minting errors tend to be worth the most. The fewer that exist, the higher the demand among collectors.
3. Can valuable dimes still be found in circulation?
It’s rare but possible! Some valuable dimes, like certain Mercury Dimes or silver Roosevelt Dimes, occasionally show up in pocket change or old collections.
4. Where can I sell a valuable dime?
You can sell your rare dimes through major coin auction houses, reputable dealers, or online platforms like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers.
5. Should I clean my old dime before selling it?
No! Cleaning a rare coin can lower its value significantly. If you think you have a valuable dime, get it professionally appraised instead.
