Have you ever checked your loose change? Those small rare dimes in your pocket might be worth a fortune! Some dimes are so valuable that collectors are willing to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for them. In this article, we’ll uncover four rare dimes that could turn your spare change into a life-changing treasure. We’ll break down their history, why they’re so special, and how to spot them—all in simple words to make it easy for you to understand. Let’s dive in!
Why Are Some Dimes So Valuable?
Dimes are small, but certain ones are incredibly valuable because of their rarity, historical significance, or minting errors. These rare dimes were either produced in limited numbers, have unique flaws, or were minted in a way that makes them stand out. Collectors love these coins, and their value skyrockets due to high demand and low supply. Let’s explore the top four rare dimes you might find in your change.
The 4 Rare Dimes That Could Make You Rich
Below, we’ll list the four most valuable rare dimes, their key features, and their estimated worth. Whether you’re a coin collector or just someone with a jar of change, these are the dimes to look for.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
What Makes It Special?
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest coins in the world. Only 24 were ever minted at the San Francisco Mint, and today, only nine are known to exist. This rare dime is a collector’s dream because of its extremely low mintage and historical mystery.
How to Spot It
- Year and Mint Mark: Look for “1894” and a small “S” (for San Francisco) on the back of the dime.
- Design: Features a woman (Liberty) with a wreath on her head, designed by Charles E. Barber.
- Condition: The value depends on the coin’s condition. A well-preserved one sold for over $900,000 at auction!
Estimated Value
- Average Condition: $500,000–$700,000
- Top Condition: Over $900,000
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
What Makes It Special?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly sought-after rare dime. Only 264,000 were minted in Denver, making it one of the lowest mintage coins in the Mercury Dime series. Its rarity and beauty make it a favorite among collectors.
How to Spot It
- Year and Mint Mark: Check for “1916” and a “D” on the back, near the bottom.
- Design: Shows a winged Liberty head (often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury) on the front and a bundle of sticks with an axe on the back.
- Condition: Even worn examples are valuable, but a pristine one can fetch a fortune.
Estimated Value
- Average Condition: $1,000–$10,000
- Top Condition: Up to $150,000
3. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime
What Makes It Special?
The 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime is a super rare dime because only one is known to exist! Minted in Carson City, this coin was part of a small batch before the mint added arrows to the design, making it a unique piece of history.
How to Spot It
- Year and Mint Mark: Look for “1873” and “CC” (Carson City) on the back.
- Design: Features a seated Liberty holding a shield and a pole with a cap.
- No Arrows: Unlike other 1873 dimes, this one has no arrows next to the date.
Estimated Value
- Any Condition: Around $1,000,000 (only one known, so it’s priceless to collectors)
4. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
What Makes It Special?
The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is a modern rare dime with a minting error. Proof coins are specially made for collectors, but a small batch in 1968 was missing the “S” mint mark, making them extremely valuable.
How to Spot It
- Year and Mint Mark: Look for “1968” with no “S” mint mark on the front.
- Design: Shows President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the front and a torch with olive and oak branches on the back.
- Proof Quality: These coins are shiny and have sharp details, as they were made for collectors.
Estimated Value
- Average Condition: $10,000–$20,000
- Top Condition: Up to $40,000
Quick Guide to the 4 Rare Dimes
| Dime Name | Year | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | S | Only 24 minted, 9 known | $500,000–$900,000+ |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | D | Low mintage of 264,000 | $1,000–$150,000 |
| 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated | 1873 | CC | Only 1 known, no arrows by date | ~$1,000,000 |
| 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | None | Missing “S” mint mark, proof coin | $10,000–$40,000 |
How to Check Your Dimes for These Gems
Finding a rare dime in your pocket change is exciting, but you need to know what to look for. Here’s a simple guide to help you spot these treasures:
- Check the Year and Mint Mark: Look at the year and the tiny letter (mint mark) on the coin. The mint mark is usually on the back (or front for Roosevelt dimes) and can be “S,” “D,” “CC,” or missing in some cases.
- Examine the Design: Each dime has a unique design. Compare your coin to pictures of the Barber, Mercury, Liberty Seated, or Roosevelt dimes.
- Look for Errors: Missing mint marks (like the 1968 No-S) or unique features (like no arrows in 1873) can make a dime valuable.
- Check the Condition: Coins in better condition are worth more. Avoid cleaning your coins, as this can lower their value.
- Get It Appraised: If you think you’ve found a rare dime, take it to a professional coin dealer or appraiser for verification.
Tips to Keep Your Rare Dimes Safe
If you find one of these rare dimes, handle it with care to preserve its value:
- Don’t Clean It: Cleaning can scratch the surface and reduce its worth.
- Store Properly: Keep it in a protective holder or sleeve to avoid damage.
- Get It Graded: Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can certify its authenticity and condition, boosting its value.
- Consult an Expert: A coin dealer can guide you on selling or keeping your dime.
Why Collectors Love Rare Dimes
Rare dimes are more than just money—they’re pieces of history. Each coin tells a story, from the limited minting of the 1894-S to the minting error of the 1968 No-S. Collectors are drawn to their rarity, beauty, and the thrill of owning something so unique. Plus, their value often increases over time, making them a smart investment.
Start Searching for Your Rare Dime Today!
You never know when a rare dime might show up in your change. That dime in your pocket could be worth hundreds, thousands, or even nearly a million dollars! Start checking your coins today, and you might discover a hidden treasure. If you think you’ve found one, get it checked by a professional to confirm its value.