Certain U.S. dimes are incredibly valuable, commanding prices of up to $2 million due to their rarity, unique features, or historical significance. These rare dimes are prized by collectors worldwide, and owning one could mean a small fortune. Here’s a closer look at the top 8 rare U.S. dimes, their distinguishing characteristics, and how to identify them.
Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest U.S. coins, with only 24 ever minted. Of these, only a few are known to exist today, making this dime exceptionally rare and valuable. Due to its limited mintage and historical appeal, collectors prize this coin, which can reach an estimated value of $2 million at auction.
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco Mint)
- Unique Feature: Extremely low mintage
- Estimated Value: Up to $2 million
Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime with the “Arrows” design was minted at the Carson City Mint, known for its low production runs. This coin is especially rare in high-grade condition, with collectors drawn to its unique “Arrows” design and historical significance.
- Mint Mark: CC (Carson City Mint)
- Unique Feature: “Arrows” design and limited production
- Estimated Value: Approximately $1.8 million
Mercury Dime
With only around 264,000 minted, the 1916-D Mercury Dime is a key date coin and a favorite among collectors seeking to complete a Mercury dime series. In top conditions, this dime can reach values around $1.5 million due to its rarity.
- Mint Mark: D (Denver Mint)
- Unique Feature: Key date with low mintage
- Estimated Value: Around $1.5 million
Draped Bust Dime
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime is one of the earliest dimes produced by the U.S. Mint, making it both rare and historically significant. Well-preserved examples of this coin can be worth millions, as they represent the beginnings of U.S. coinage.
- Mint Mark: None
- Unique Feature: Early U.S. coinage
- Estimated Value: Approximately $1.2 million
Draped Bust Dime
The 1804 Draped Bust Dime is another prized coin among collectors of early U.S. coinage. Its limited production and historical importance make it a valuable addition to any collection, especially for those interested in coins from the early days of the United States.
- Mint Mark: None
- Unique Feature: Limited production run
- Estimated Value: Up to $1 million
Seated Liberty Dime
Another Carson City Mint rarity, the 1871-CC Seated Liberty Dime is highly valued, particularly in mint condition. The limited mintage from this historic mint enhances its appeal, making it a sought-after coin among collectors.
- Mint Mark: CC (Carson City Mint)
- Unique Feature: Carson City origin with limited mintage
- Estimated Value: Around $1 million
Curl Base “2” Dime
The 1829 Curl Base “2” Dime stands out due to its unique “Curl Base 2” design, which differentiates it from other dimes of its era. This slight design variation makes it highly valuable, especially in excellent condition.
- Mint Mark: None
- Unique Feature: Distinctive “Curl Base 2” design
- Estimated Value: Approximately $900,000
Overdate Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is famous for its overdate error, where the “1” is visible under the “2” in the date. This rare minting error increases its value, especially in high grades, making it a top target for collectors interested in error coins.
- Mint Mark: D or P (Denver or Philadelphia Mint)
- Unique Feature: Overdate error with visible “1” under the “2”
- Estimated Value: Up to $800,000
| Coin | Year | Mint Mark | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barber Dime | 1894 | S | Extremely low mintage | $2 Million |
| Seated Liberty Dime | 1873 | CC | “Arrows” design | $1.8 Million |
| Mercury Dime | 1916 | D | Key date, low mintage | $1.5 Million |
| Draped Bust Dime | 1796 | None | Early U.S. coinage | $1.2 Million |
| Draped Bust Dime | 1804 | None | Limited production | $1 Million |
| Seated Liberty Dime | 1871 | CC | Carson City origin | $1 Million |
| Curl Base “2” Dime | 1829 | None | Unique “Curl Base 2” design | $900,000 |
| Overdate Mercury Dime | 1942 | D or P | Overdate error | $800,000 |
These eight rare dimes each have unique qualities, from minting errors to limited production, that contribute to their exceptional values. If you’re lucky enough to find one, it could be a significant addition to your collection and a valuable asset. Keep an eye out—you may just observe a small fortune in your collection or even loose change.
FAQs
Why is the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
Only 24 were minted, making it extremely rare.
What makes the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime unique?
It has the rare “Arrows” design and was minted in Carson City.
How valuable is a 1916-D Mercury Dime?
High-grade coins can reach $1.5 million.
What is special about the 1829 Curl Base “2” Dime?
The “Curl Base 2” design makes it unique and valuable.
How rare is the 1942/1 Mercury Dime?
It’s rare due to the overdate error, valued up to $800,000.
