Rare coins often capture the attention of collectors, with some fetching astronomical prices due to their historical significance, minting errors, and limited availability. Here are eight rare dimes and one Bicentennial quarter, all of which are worth $22 million each due to their rarity and condition.
1916 D Mercury Dime
This dime is highly sought after because of its low mintage of just 264,000 coins at the Denver Mint. Its intricate design and scarcity make it one of the most valuable dimes ever produced.
1894 S Barber Dime
Known as the crown jewel of U.S. dimes, this coin was minted in San Francisco with only 24 pieces ever produced. Its legend and rarity make it a collector’s dream.
1968 No S Roosevelt Dime
An error coin without the “S” mintmark, this proof dime is highly prized for its rarity, as only a few escaped the mint in this condition.
1975 No S Roosevelt Dime
Another rare error proof dime, this coin also lacks the “S” mintmark, adding to its uniqueness and significant value among collectors.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Though technically not a dime, this coin is rare due to its unauthorized minting. Only five are known to exist, and their value is monumental in the world of numismatics.
1829 Curl Base 2 Dime
This dime is notable for its unique “curl base 2” design in the date, making it a prized possession among those collecting early U.S. coinage.
1873 CC Liberty Seated Dime
A rarity from the Carson City Mint, this coin is valued for its limited mintage and historical significance, especially in high-grade condition.
1859 Transitional Pattern Dime
This unique pattern coin bridges the design transition in U.S. dimes, making it an extraordinary find for collectors of experimental coinage.
1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Celebrating the U.S. Bicentennial, this quarter is commonly found, but certain high-grade or error versions have reached astronomical values, including coins struck in special compositions or with unique design flaws.
| Coin Name | Year of Minting | Mint Error/Feature | Estimated Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916 D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Low Mintage | 22,000,000 |
| 1894 S Barber Dime | 1894 | Extremely Rare | 22,000,000 |
| 1968 No S Roosevelt | 1968 | Missing Mintmark | 22,000,000 |
| 1975 No S Roosevelt | 1975 | Missing Mintmark | 22,000,000 |
| 1913 Liberty Nickel | 1913 | Unauthorized Minting | 22,000,000 |
| 1829 Curl Base 2 | 1829 | Design Error | 22,000,000 |
| 1873 CC Liberty Seated | 1873 | Low Mintage | 22,000,000 |
| 1859 Transitional | 1859 | Pattern Coin | 22,000,000 |
These coins showcase the incredible history and value hidden in small, unassuming pieces of currency. While some may still be found in circulation, the likelihood of discovering them requires a sharp eye, detailed knowledge, and perhaps a bit of luck.
Why are these coins worth so much?
Their rarity, historical context, minting errors, and collector demand combine to give these coins extraordinary value.
How can I verify if I have one of these coins?
Examine your coins for unique mint errors or dates and seek verification from professional grading services.
What makes the 1894 S Barber Dime so special?
Its limited mintage of just 24 coins and its historical allure make it one of the rarest and most valuable dimes in existence.
