Many people don’t realize that valuable coins are still in circulation, hiding in everyday pocket change. Rare quarters and dimes can be worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars, but most go unnoticed. If you suspect you’ve found a valuable coin, it’s essential to know what steps to take to confirm its authenticity, protect its condition, and get the best possible price. Here’s what to do if you come across one of these rare and highly sought-after coins.
1. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Worth Up to $500,000
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is one of the rarest modern coins, with only two known examples. These dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mintmark, which typically indicates they were minted in San Francisco. In 2019, one of these rare dimes sold for a staggering $456,000 at auction. If you find a 1975 Roosevelt dime without an “S” mintmark, handle it carefully and get it authenticated immediately. Even a slight mistake in handling or cleaning can reduce its value significantly.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime – A Collector’s Dream
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a highly sought-after coin due to its low mintage of only 264,000 pieces. This dime features the iconic Winged Liberty design, often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury. In high-grade condition, this coin can fetch well over $200,000 at auction, while even circulated versions sell for thousands. If you find a 1916 dime, check for a small “D” mintmark on the reverse. If it’s there, avoid excessive handling and get it evaluated by a professional coin grading service.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a Rare Error
While the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted in large numbers, error versions are incredibly valuable. Some of the most notable errors include double die obverse, off-center strikes, and missing clad layers. Depending on the error type and coin condition, these quarters have been known to sell for thousands of dollars. If you find a Bicentennial Quarter that looks unusual, compare it to standard versions and consult a professional to determine its value.
Finding a rare coin in your spare change can be a thrilling and potentially life-changing discovery. However, knowing how to properly handle, authenticate, and sell the coin is crucial to ensuring you receive its full value. Whether it’s a 1975 No-S Dime, a 1916-D Mercury Dime, or a rare Bicentennial Quarter error, taking the right steps can turn your pocket change into a fortune. Always do your research, avoid cleaning the coin, and seek professional appraisal before making any decisions.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my coin is valuable?
Look at the year, mintmark, and any unusual features like doubling, missing details, or misaligned images. You can compare your coin to known valuable versions using online price guides or coin reference books.
2. Should I clean my rare coin?
No! Cleaning a coin can strip away its natural toning and significantly reduce its value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, unaltered state.
3. Where can I get my coin authenticated?
Professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) can verify your coin’s authenticity and assign it a grade, which can increase its resale value.
4. What’s the best way to sell a rare quarter or dime?
Rare coins can be sold through coin dealers, auctions (like Heritage Auctions), or online marketplaces such as eBay. Having the coin graded will often attract higher offers.
5. Are valuable coins still found in circulation?
Yes! Many rare coins remain in circulation because people don’t recognize their value. Searching through loose change, coin rolls, and old collections can still lead to unexpected treasures.
