Have you ever checked the change in your pocket? You might be carrying a rare dime worth a fortune! Some dimes, due to their unique history, limited production, or minting errors, are highly valuable to collectors. In this article, we’ll explore four rare dimes that could be hiding in your wallet, including one valued at over $900,000. We’ll break it down in simple terms, so you can easily understand what to look for and why these coins are so special.
Why Are Some Dimes So Valuable?
Dimes are small, but certain ones are treasures because of their rarity, historical significance, or mistakes made during production. Collectors pay big bucks for these coins, especially if they’re in good condition. Let’s dive into the four rare dimes that could change your life.
The 4 Rare Dimes You Need to Know About
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – The Million-Dollar Coin
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 just nine are known to exist today. This dime was created as a test run, making it incredibly scarce.
- Why It’s Valuable: With so few in existence, collectors are willing to pay a fortune. In 2007, one sold for $1.9 million, and its value today could exceed $900,000 depending on its condition.
- How to Spot It: Look for a dime from 1894 with an “S” mint mark (for San Francisco) on the back, below the wreath.
- Fun Fact: Some say these dimes were minted as gifts for important people, adding to their mystique.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime – A Collector’s Dream
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another gem. Only 264,000 were made at the Denver Mint, making it one of the rarest in the Mercury Dime series. Its low mintage and high demand drive its value.
- Why It’s Valuable: A well-preserved 1916-D Mercury Dime can fetch up to $40,000 or more at auctions.
- How to Spot It: Check for a 1916 dime with a “D” mint mark on the back, near the bottom left of the fasces (a bundle of rods).
- Tip: Even worn versions can be worth hundreds, so don’t overlook a beat-up one!
3. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime – Super Rare
The 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime is a legend among collectors. Minted in Carson City, only 12,400 were produced, and very few survive today. The “No Arrows” version refers to the lack of arrowheads around the date, a design change that makes it unique.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its rarity and historical significance make it worth up to $500,000 in top condition.
- How to Spot It: Look for an 1873 dime with a “CC” mint mark (Carson City) and no arrows near the date.
- Did You Know?: The Carson City Mint was in a remote location, so fewer coins were made, adding to their scarcity.
4. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime – A Modern Treasure
The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is a modern rarity caused by a minting error. Proof coins are specially made for collectors, but a small batch of 1968 dimes missed the “S” mint mark, making them extremely valuable.
- Why It’s Valuable: These error coins can sell for $10,000 or more, depending on their condition.
- How to Spot It: Look for a 1968 dime with no “S” mint mark, often in pristine condition since it’s a proof coin.
- Fun Fact: Mint errors like this are rare because proof coins are carefully inspected, making this mistake a big deal.
How to Check If You Have a Rare Dime
Finding a rare dime in your pocket is exciting, but you need to know what to look for. Here’s a quick guide:
| Dime | Year | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | S | Only 24 minted | Up to $900,000+ |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | D | Low mintage | Up to $40,000 |
| 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime | 1873 | CC | No arrows near date | Up to $500,000 |
| 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | None | Missing “S” mint mark | Up to $10,000+ |
Steps to Identify a Rare Dime:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark: Look at the year and any small letters (like S, D, or CC) on the back of the dime.
- Examine the Condition: Coins in better shape are worth more. Avoid cleaning them, as it can lower their value.
- Compare to Known Features: Use a magnifying glass to check for specific details, like missing arrows or mint marks.
- Get It Appraised: If you think you have a rare dime, take it to a professional coin dealer or appraiser.
Tips to Protect Your Rare Dime
If you find one of these rare dimes, handle it carefully to preserve its value:
- Store It Safely: Use a coin holder or sleeve to prevent scratches.
- Don’t Clean It: Cleaning can damage the surface and lower its worth.
- Get It Certified: Have it graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and condition.
Where to Sell Your Rare Dime
If you’ve got a rare dime, you can sell it through:
- Coin Dealers: Local or online dealers can appraise and buy your coin.
- Auction Houses: Major auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Sotheby’s handle high-value coins.
- Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay can work, but be cautious and ensure authenticity.
Why You Should Start Checking Your Change Today
You never know when a rare dime might turn up in your pocket, purse, or old coin jar. These tiny treasures can be worth thousands or even millions, so it’s worth taking a closer look. By knowing what to look for, you could uncover a life-changing find.
Final Thoughts
The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and rare dimes like the 1894-S Barber, 1916-D Mercury, 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated, and 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt are proof of that. Start checking your change, and you might just find a small fortune! If you think you’ve found a rare dime, get it checked by a professional to confirm its value. Happy hunting!