In the world of coin collecting, some dimes are worth way more than their face value. These tiny pieces of history have turned into multimillion-dollar treasures, capturing the fascination of collectors and investors alike.
Today, we’ll look into five of the rarest dimes ever minted and separate fact from fiction regarding the rumored fortune of a Bicentennial Quarter.
1894-S Barber
If there’s a Holy Grail in coin collecting, it’s the 1894-S Barber Dime. With only 24 ever minted and fewer than 10 known to exist today, this dime is one of the rarest in American history.
The story behind its creation remains a mystery. Some say these dimes were minted as gifts for bankers, while others believe they were made to balance the San Francisco Mint’s financial records. Whatever the reason, their scarcity makes them worth a fortune.
In recent years, an 1894-S Barber Dime sold at auction for an astounding $1.9 million. If you ever find one in your collection, you’re holding a piece of numismatic history—and a potential windfall.
1916-D Mercury
The 1916-D Mercury Dime stands out due to its limited mintage. Only 264,000 of these dimes were produced at the Denver Mint, making it one of the rarest Mercury Dimes ever struck.
Why is it so valuable? Most dimes from that era were minted in the millions, but this one had a low production due to a die shortage. Collectors prize it for its scarcity and historical significance, as it was minted during the early years of World War I.
A well-preserved 1916-D Mercury Dime can fetch upwards of $200,000. Even in lower grades, it remains one of the most desirable dimes in American numismatics.
1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty
Step back into the Old West with the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime. Minted in Carson City, a hotspot for silver production during the 19th century, this dime is a true frontier relic.
In 1873, a new weight standard was introduced, and most dimes were recalled and re-minted with arrows next to the date to indicate the change. However, a few “No Arrows” versions survived, making them exceptionally rare—especially from the Carson City Mint.
With only a handful of specimens known to exist, collectors are willing to pay over $1 million for a well-preserved piece. This dime is a blend of history, rarity, and the spirit of the American West.
1968 No-S Roosevelt
Most rare coins are centuries old, but the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime proves that modern errors can be valuable too. This proof dime was supposed to have an “S” mint mark indicating it was struck in San Francisco. However, some were accidentally minted without it, making them highly sought after by collectors.
No one knows exactly how these error dimes left the mint, but their scarcity has made them quite valuable. While they don’t command million-dollar prices, a high-grade 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime can sell for over $20,000.
1975 No-S Roosevelt
If the 1968 No-S Dime was rare, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is even more elusive. Only two examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest dimes ever minted.
Because of its extreme rarity, no one knows its exact market value. Experts estimate that if another one were found and put up for auction, it could easily fetch over $500,000. For now, the existing two specimens remain prized possessions for elite collectors.
Bicentennial Quarter
Now, let’s address the Bicentennial Quarter—a coin that has sparked countless rumors about its supposed multimillion-dollar value.
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1975 and 1976, features a colonial drummer on the reverse instead of the usual eagle design. Many collectors cherish these quarters, but most are only worth their face value or slightly more.
So, what about claims that some are worth millions? The truth is, unless a Bicentennial Quarter has a rare minting error, it is unlikely to be worth more than a few dollars.
Some silver proof versions and rare error coins can fetch hundreds or even thousands, but the idea of a $37 million Bicentennial Quarter is pure myth.
Value Comparison Table
| Coin | Estimated Value | Why It’s Rare |
|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | $1.9 million+ | Only 24 minted, fewer than 10 remain |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | $200,000+ | Low mintage of only 264,000 |
| 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty | $1 million+ | Carson City Mint rarity |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime | $20,000+ | Proof coin missing mint mark |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | $500,000+ (est.) | Only two known to exist |
| Bicentennial Quarter | Face value – $10,000 | Only rare error versions are valuable |
While most dimes are worth just 10 cents, some hold hidden fortunes that can change a collector’s life. The 1894-S Barber, 1916-D Mercury, and 1873-CC No Arrows dimes are among the most coveted in numismatic history.
Meanwhile, modern mint errors like the 1968 and 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dimes prove that valuable coins aren’t always old.
As for the Bicentennial Quarter, don’t believe the hype—unless you have an error version, it’s just another quarter!
FAQs
What is the rarest dime ever?
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the rarest, with fewer than 10 known.
How much is a 1916-D Mercury Dime worth?
A well-preserved one can sell for over $200,000.
Why is the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime valuable?
Only two are known to exist, making it extremely rare.
Are Bicentennial Quarters worth millions?
No, only rare error versions have significant value.
What makes a dime valuable?
Rarity, condition, historical significance, and mint errors.
