Finding a rare coin is like striking gold, and some U.S. dimes and quarters are worth more than you might imagine. From rare mint errors to limited edition releases, certain dimes and a special Bicentennial quarter have skyrocketed in value over the years.
These coins, once everyday pocket change, could now be worth hundreds of thousands—or even millions—if you happen to find one in pristine condition. Let’s explore eight dimes and a unique Bicentennial quarter that could add up to a fortune.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history, with only 24 known to have been minted. This dime’s scarcity and historical significance make it highly sought after, with some examples selling for over $2 million at auction. Spotting this coin in your collection would be like winning the lottery.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
Known for its beauty and rarity, the 1916-D Mercury Dime was produced in limited quantities at the Denver Mint. High-grade examples are especially valuable, with some fetching over $50,000. This dime is recognized by the “D” mint mark on the reverse, distinguishing it from other Mercury dimes.
3. 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is another valuable find, known for its extremely low mintage and historical connection to the Carson City Mint. Due to its rarity, an 1873-CC dime in good condition can reach values in the six-figure range, making it a prized collectible.
4. 1846 Seated Liberty Dime
The 1846 Seated Liberty Dime is notable for its limited mintage, as only a few thousand were produced. This coin’s rarity, combined with its age, makes it valuable to collectors. In high-grade condition, it can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
5. 1955 Roosevelt Dime Double Die
The 1955 Roosevelt Dime with a double die error is a popular collector’s item. This error is easily recognizable by the doubling effect on the date and lettering. It’s a valuable addition to any collection, especially in high grades, and can fetch several thousand dollars at auction.
6. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime Proof
A few 1968 Roosevelt Dimes were mistakenly minted without the “S” mint mark on proof coins produced in San Francisco. These error coins are rare, with only a handful known to exist, making them extremely valuable to collectors.
7. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime Proof
Similar to the 1968 dime, some 1975 Roosevelt Dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark. This error is one of the most sought-after in the Roosevelt Dime series, with values reaching up to tens of thousands of dollars.
8. 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 Roosevelt Dime was the first regular-issue U.S. coin to be struck without a mint mark, creating a rare variety. This coin is valuable to collectors due to its uniqueness and limited availability.
9. Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, produced to celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary, can also be valuable in certain conditions. Quarters with unique mint errors or in silver-clad proof condition are especially sought after, with some fetching hundreds or thousands of dollars.
| Coin Name | Year Issued | Mint Mark | Error Type | Value Range ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | S | Limited Mintage | Up to $2M |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | D | Low Mintage | Up to $50,000+ |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime | 1873 | CC | Low Mintage | Up to $100,000+ |
| 1846 Seated Liberty Dime | 1846 | None | Limited Mintage | Up to $20,000+ |
| 1955 Roosevelt Dime | 1955 | None | Double Die Error | Up to $2,000+ |
| 1968 Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | None | No Mint Mark | Up to $25,000+ |
| 1975 Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | None | No Mint Mark | Up to $20,000+ |
| 1982 Roosevelt Dime | 1982 | None | No Mint Mark | Up to $500+ |
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | None | Error/Silver-Clad | Up to $1,000+ |
These rare dimes and Bicentennial quarters highlight the exciting world of coin collecting, where ordinary-looking coins can be worth a fortune. Checking your spare change and coin jars could uncover unexpected treasures with significant value.
