Imagine carrying a dime in your pocket that could make you a millionaire. It might sound like a movie plot, but for rare coin collectors, it’s a very real possibility. Some dimes, often overlooked in loose change, are now worth staggering sums of money. Below, we’ll cut into three extraordinary dimes that have captured the hearts—and wallets—of collectors worldwide, with values soaring up to $250,000 or more.
Barber
The 1894-S Barber dime is legendary among numismatists. Only 24 of these coins were minted in San Francisco, and fewer than 10 examples are known to exist today. This extreme rarity, combined with its fascinating history, makes it one of the most coveted dimes in existence.
Some believe these coins were struck as special gifts for influential figures, adding a layer of historical intrigue. Even in less-than-perfect condition, this coin can command six-figure sums, while pristine examples have fetched over $1.9 million at auction.
Key Features:
- Year: 1894
- Mint: San Francisco (S)
- Mintage: 24
- Design: Lady Liberty on the obverse; a wreath encircling “One Dime” on the reverse.
Value Range: $500,000 to over $1.9 million.
Mercury
The 1916-D Mercury dime is another highly sought-after treasure. As the first year of the Mercury dime series, its limited mintage of 264,000 coins has made it a key date for collectors. Its rarity is further heightened by its status as the inaugural coin in a beloved series.
High-quality examples of the 1916-D Mercury dime can sell for anywhere between $10,000 and $250,000. If you’ve got one tucked away in your collection, it’s time to dust it off and get it appraised.
Key Features:
- Year: 1916
- Mint: Denver (D)
- Mintage: 264,000
- Design: Liberty with a winged cap on the obverse; a fasces and olive branch on the reverse.
Value Range: $10,000 to $250,000.
Roosevelt
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt dime is a modern rarity that owes its existence to a minting error. Created for proof sets, these dimes were accidentally struck without the “S” mintmark, which denotes the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples are confirmed to exist.
Its accidental nature and extreme scarcity have skyrocketed its value. In recent auctions, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt dime has sold for over $450,000, making it one of the most valuable modern coins ever minted.
Key Features:
- Year: 1975
- Mint: San Francisco (S) – Missing mintmark
- Mintage: Unknown; only two confirmed examples
- Design: President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse; a torch flanked by olive and oak branches on the reverse.
Value Range: $350,000 to over $456,000.
| Coin | Year | Mint | Mintage | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | San Francisco (S) | 24 | $500,000 – $1.9 million+ |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Denver (D) | 264,000 | $10,000 – $250,000 |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | San Francisco (S) | 2 known | $350,000 – $456,000+ |
Significant
So, could a small dime in your pocket really lead to a life-changing payday? Absolutely. These three examples are proof that treasures often lie hidden in plain sight. Whether you’re rummaging through your piggy bank or an old coin collection, don’t overlook those dimes—they could be worth far more than ten cents.
FAQs
What makes the 1894-S Barber dime special?
Its rarity and historical significance make it highly valuable.
How many 1975 No-S Roosevelt dimes exist?
Only two examples are confirmed to exist.
Why is the 1916-D Mercury dime valuable?
It’s the first in its series with a limited mintage of 264,000.
What’s the highest value of the Barber dime?
It has sold for over $1.9 million in pristine condition.
Can circulated rare dimes still be valuable?
Yes, they can command significant sums even if not in perfect condition.
