In the fascinating world of coin collecting, some small pieces of metal can carry extraordinary worth. While most coins we encounter are worth little more than their face value, a few rare examples—often the result of minting anomalies or limited production—can fetch staggering prices, even in the millions.
These aren’t just coins; they’re pieces of American history. Let’s explore 10 rare dimes and bicentennial quarters that, together, could be worth more than $75 million.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
Often considered the ultimate collectible dime, only 24 were minted in San Francisco in 1894. It’s believed they were produced as personal gifts by Mint Superintendent John Daggett. One of these dimes was famously used to buy ice cream. Today, surviving examples can easily surpass $2 million in value.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
This Denver-minted Mercury dime had a very limited mintage of just 264,000 coins in its debut year. Because of its rarity, collectors are willing to pay over $100,000 for one in mint condition.
3. 1942/1 Overdate Mercury Dime
During WWII, some 1941 dies were mistakenly re-engraved with the 1942 date, creating an overdate error. The number “1” can be seen beneath the “2.” Well-preserved examples are highly desirable and can fetch tens of thousands of dollars.
4. 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Only two known examples of this proof dime without the San Francisco “S” mint mark exist. One was sold for an incredible $456,000 in 2019, making it one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins.
5. 1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Similar to the 1975 variety, this dime lacks the “S” mint mark and is a favorite among error collectors. Though not as rare, top-grade pieces can still sell for more than $20,000.
6. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Struck to commemorate the U.S. bicentennial, these quarters featuring a colonial drummer design are widely available. However, specific rare versions and error types can be worth considerably more.
7. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
San Francisco also issued special 40% silver versions of the bicentennial quarter for collectors. Flawless proof versions can command prices of up to $500.
8. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Dime Planchet
One of the more dramatic mint errors, these quarters were mistakenly struck on a dime-sized planchet. This makes the coin smaller and thinner than normal. Such errors have sold for $5,000 to $15,000.
9. 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter
These error coins show noticeable doubling on the lettering and date. Depending on condition, they can be worth between $500 and $3,000 or more.
10. 1976 Aluminum Bicentennial Quarter (Test Strike)
Although no confirmed examples are known to exist publicly, aluminum test strikes of the bicentennial quarter were allegedly made during experiments to switch from copper. If one were to appear and become legal to own, its value could exceed $2 million.
Estimated Values at a Glance
| Coin Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | $2,000,000+ |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | $100,000+ |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate | $10,000 – $80,000 |
| 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime | $456,000 |
| 1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime | $20,000+ |
| 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter | Up to $500 |
| 1976 Quarter on Dime Planchet | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter Doubled Die | $500 – $3,000 |
| 1976 Aluminum Bicentennial Quarter (Test Strike) | $2,000,000+ (if found) |
Final Thoughts
These rare coins aren’t just collectible—they’re historical artifacts that reveal the quirks and changes of the U.S. Mint through the years. Whether created through mistakes or special circumstances, they now hold immense value for collectors.
So the next time you’re about to drop your spare change into a jar or vending machine, take a closer look—you might be holding a fortune without realizing it.
FAQs
Q: What’s the most valuable U.S. dime?
A: The 1894-S Barber Dime, which can be worth over $2 million.
Q: How much did the 1975 No S dime sell for?
A: It was auctioned for $456,000 in 2019.
Q: Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime considered rare?
A: Only 264,000 were minted, making it highly collectible.
Q: What is a doubled die coin?
A: It’s a coin with a visibly doubled design due to an error in the die-making process.
Q: Can valuable coins still be found in circulation?
A: Yes! Occasionally, rare coins and errors still show up in everyday change.