Finding rare and valuable coins in your own collection can be a thrill, especially if it’s dimes. Dimes have existed in American currency for centuries, and certain rare varieties of them are worth a pretty penny at auction. These are three of the rare dimes that could be worth a great deal of money, along with some tips on how to identify them and why collectors are so eager for them.
1894-S Barber Dime
Overview
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American numismatics. Only 24 dimes were minted at the San Francisco Mint, and fewer than 10 are known to exist today13. The reason for this low mintage remains a mystery, but there are theories that they were struck as commemorative gifts or to settle financial transactions within the mint1.
Value and Significance
In mint condition, the 1894-S Barber Dime will cost over $1 million, with some costing up to $2 million36. Not only is it worth money, but it is also a piece of history and a treasured item among collectors for its rarity and historical significance.
Identification Tips
- Mint Mark: The “S” mint mark will be located on the back.
- Condition: These coins in finer condition are of greater value.
- Rarity: Only 24 were struck, so it is extremely scarce.
1916-D Mercury Dime
Overview
1916-D Mercury Dime is a highly costly coin due to its limited production. Just 264,000 dimes were produced at the Denver Mint, so it is among the rarest of Mercury dimes in circulation12. The coin features a winged Liberty on the front and a fasces (group of sticks and an axe) on the back
Value and Significance
In mint condition, the 1916-D Mercury Dime will sell for significantly more than $100,0001. Both its rarity and its place within the Mercury dime series give it value.
Identification Tips
- Mint Mark: Look for the “D” mint mark at the base of the fasces on the back.
- Condition: Coins with better condition sell for more money.
- Rarity: Only 264,000 were produced, so it’s highly prized by collectors.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Overview
The 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime is an error coin that lacks the “S” mint mark that appears on coins minted by the San Francisco Mint. This mistake makes it highly sought after by collectors17.
Value and Significance
These dimes have sold for up to $20,000, and higher for proof editions18. The value is in the fact that it’s an error coin and because of the history of being part of the Roosevelt dime series.
Identification Tips
- Condition: Well-preserved coins are more valuable.
- Mint Mark: Check for the absence of the “S” mint mark.
- Rarity: The error makes it highly sought after by collectors.
Reasons for the High Value of These Coins
There are several reasons why the value of these rare dimes is high:
Extremely Low Mintages: The 1894-S Barber Dime and 1916-D Mercury Dime were produced in extremely low mintages, and that’s why they are so rare and valuable1.
Minting Mistakes: Mistakes such as omitted mint marks, as in the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime, render a coin extremely valuable1.
Historical Importance: Coins like the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime have a powerful historical tie, making them attractive to collectors1.
How to Identify Rare Coins in Your Collection
If you think you have a rare dime, do the following:
Examine Mint Marks: Look for small letters like “S,” “D,” or “CC” on the coin—or their absence1.
Examine for Errors: Examine for misprints, doubled-up letters, or omitted mint marks1.
Assess Condition: Coins in better condition are much more valuable1.
Consult Experts: If you suspect you’ve found a rare coin, have it professionally appraised1.
A find of an unusual dime is the experience of a lifetime, especially if one of these extremely valuable coins. Keep your coins well stored in protective cases and have them professionally evaluated by experts to determine their authenticity and value.
