Since their introduction in 1796, dimes have been an integral part of U.S. coinage. Beyond their everyday use, certain dimes have become prized collectibles, with some fetching astonishing prices at auction due to their rarity, unique errors, and historical significance. Here’s a detailed look at ten of the most valuable U.S. dimes, including one valued at an incredible $750,000.
1894-S Barber Dime
- Mintage: 24
- Estimated Value: Up to $1.9 million
- Notable Sale: $1,997,500 (2007)
- Details: With only 24 minted, primarily as gifts for dignitaries, and nine known survivors, this San Francisco dime is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- Mintage: Unknown
- Estimated Value: Approximately $500,000
- Notable Sale: $456,000 (2019)
- Details: This modern proof coin lacks the “S” mint mark, a production error at the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples are known, making it a standout rarity.
1916-D Mercury Dime
- Mintage: 264,000
- Estimated Value: Up to $207,000 in mint condition
- Notable Sale: $207,000 (MS67 specimen)
- Details: As the first year of the Mercury dime design, the low mintage of this Denver issue makes it highly desirable.
1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime (No Arrows)
- Mintage: Unknown
- Estimated Value: Approximately $1.84 million
- Notable Sale: $1,840,000
- Details: Produced at the Carson City Mint without arrows, this rare dime is a numismatic masterpiece with only a few known examples.
1804 Draped Bust Dime
- Mintage: 8,265
- Estimated Value: Up to $632,500
- Notable Sale: $632,500 (14 Stars variety, AU58)
- Details: As one of the earliest U.S. dimes, particularly in the 14 Stars variety, this coin is a prized piece of American history.
1822 Capped Bust Dime
- Mintage: 100,000
- Estimated Value: Up to $440,625 (proof versions)
- Notable Sale: $440,625 (PR66 CAM specimen)
- Details: Rare in proof condition, this early dime is a collector’s dream due to its scarcity and striking design.
1871-CC Seated Liberty Dime
- Mintage: 20,100
- Estimated Value: Up to $270,250
- Notable Sale: $270,250 (MS65 specimen)
- Details: As one of the first dimes from the Carson City Mint, this coin holds both historical and numismatic significance.
1796 Draped Bust Dime
- Mintage: 22,135
- Estimated Value: Up to $881,250
- Notable Sale: $881,250 (MS67 specimen)
- Details: Being the first year of U.S. dime production, this coin is highly sought after by collectors and historians alike.
1919-D Mercury Dime (Full Bands)
- Mintage: 9,939,000
- Estimated Value: Up to $218,500
- Notable Sale: $218,500 (Full Bands detail)
- Details: The Full Bands designation indicates a fully struck reverse, significantly increasing its value and appeal to collectors.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- Mintage: Unknown
- Estimated Value: Up to $48,875
- Notable Sale: $48,875 (2006)
- Details: Like the 1975 No-S dime, this proof coin lacks the “S” mint mark, making it a rare and valuable modern error.
| Coin Name | Year | Mintage | Estimated Value ($) | Notable Sale ($) | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | 24 | Up to 1.9 million | 1,997,500 (2007) | Rare with only nine known specimens. |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | Unknown | ~500,000 | 456,000 (2019) | Missing “S” mint mark; only two known. |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | 264,000 | Up to 207,000 | 207,000 | Low mintage; first year of Mercury design. |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime | 1873 | Unknown | ~1.84 million | 1,840,000 | Rare Carson City issue without arrows. |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dime | 1804 | 8,265 | Up to 632,500 | 632,500 | Early U.S. coin with limited survivors. |
| 1822 Capped Bust Dime | 1822 | 100,000 | Up to 440,625 | 440,625 | Rare in proof condition. |
| 1871-CC Seated Liberty Dime | 1871 | 20,100 | Up to 270,250 | 270,250 | Historic first Carson City dime. |
| 1796 Draped Bust Dime | 1796 | 22,135 | Up to 881,250 | 881,250 | First year of U.S. dime production. |
| 1919-D Mercury Dime (Full Bands) | 1919 | 9,939,000 | Up to 218,500 | 218,500 | Full Bands detail increases value. |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | Unknown | Up to 48,875 | 48,875 | Proof coin missing “S” mint mark. |
Significant
For numismatists and history enthusiasts, collecting dimes is more than a hobby—it’s a journey through America’s rich monetary past. From the elusive 1894-S Barber Dime to modern-day errors like the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, each coin tells a story.
Whether you’re scouring loose change or investing in rare finds, the potential to observe a dime worth hundreds of thousands—or even millions—is part of the excitement. Keep your eyes open; that next treasure might just be in your pocket.
FAQs
What makes the 1894-S Barber Dime so rare?
Only 24 were minted, with just nine known to exist today.
What is a Full Bands Mercury Dime?
It features fully struck bands on the reverse, increasing its value.
Why are No-S Roosevelt Dimes valuable?
They are proof coins mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark.
How can I identify a rare dime?
Look for unique errors, low mintages, or specific design details.
Should I get my rare dime graded?
Yes, professional grading verifies authenticity and increases value.
