Most people don’t give much thought to dimes, but some rare ones have sold for thousands or even millions of dollars! Due to minting errors, low mintage, or historical significance, a few dimes have become incredibly valuable. If you have old coins at home, you may want to check them—one of these rare dimes could be hiding in your collection, waiting to bring you a fortune. Here are three dimes that are worth far more than you think and how you might find one.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – Worth Over $1.5 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most legendary and valuable U.S. coins. Only 24 were ever minted at the San Francisco Mint, and today, only nine are known to exist. Some experts believe they were made as gifts for bankers, while others suggest they were test strikes. One of these dimes sold for over $1.5 million, making it one of the most sought-after coins in history. If you’re lucky, you could find one in an old collection or estate sale, though they are incredibly rare.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime – Worth Up to $300,000
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the rarest of the Mercury dime series, with only 264,000 minted at the Denver Mint. Many of these dimes were heavily circulated, making high-quality examples extremely valuable. A mint-condition 1916-D Mercury Dime has sold for over $300,000 at auction. If you have old dimes, check for a “D” mintmark on the reverse—if it’s a 1916-D, you could have a valuable coin on your hands.
3. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Worth Over $500,000
One of the rarest modern dimes, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, was accidentally struck without the “S” mintmark on proof coins made at the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples have been confirmed, making this dime one of the rarest U.S. coins in history. One sold for $456,000 in 2019, and its value continues to rise. If you have a 1975 proof set, check the dime—if it’s missing the “S,” you may have an ultra-rare find.
These three dimes—the 1894-S Barber Dime, 1916-D Mercury Dime, and 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime—are worth far more than their face value. While finding one is rare, it’s not impossible. By searching old coin collections, proof sets, estate sales, and auctions, you increase your chances of discovering one of these valuable dimes. If you believe you have a rare dime, always get it authenticated before selling or trading!
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my dime is rare?
Look for specific dates, mintmarks, and errors. A magnifier or a professional coin guide can help you identify valuable dimes.
2. What’s the best way to get a rare dime?
Check old proof sets, estate sales, inherited collections, and bank coin rolls. You can also buy from reputable coin dealers and auctions.
3. Should I clean a rare dime before selling it?
No! Cleaning a rare coin can reduce its value significantly. Always keep it in its original condition.
4. Where can I sell a rare dime?
Sell rare dimes through auction houses, professional coin dealers, or online marketplaces like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers.
5. What is the safest way to store a rare dime?
Use airtight holders or certified coin slabs to protect against damage, and store the coin in a cool, dry place.
