In the world of coin collecting, some coins stand out not just for their rarity but for their incredible value. Imagine owning a tiny piece of history worth millions!
Today, we’re looking into ten rare dimes and bicentennial quarters, with a combined worth of up to $75 million. These aren’t just coins; they’re hidden treasures, each with a unique story.
Table of Contents
- 1 1894-S Barber Dime
- 2 1916-D Mercury Dime
- 3 1942/1 Mercury Dime
- 4 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
- 5 1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
- 6 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
- 7 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
- 8 1976 Bicentennial Quarter on Dime Planchet
- 9 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Doubled Die Obverse
- 10 1976 Aluminum Bicentennial Quarter
- 11 The Thrill of the Hunt
- 12 FAQs
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the king of rare dimes. Only 24 were minted, and fewer than 10 are known to exist today.
Legend has it that John Daggett, the San Francisco Mint Superintendent, had these struck as gifts for banker friends and gave a few to his daughter. She allegedly spent one on ice cream!
Today, this dime can sell for over $2 million at auction.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime, minted in Denver, is one of the most sought-after coins in the series. With only 264,000 produced, it’s a key rarity.
Collectors will pay over $100,000 for a well-preserved piece.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
During World War II, some 1942 Mercury Dimes were struck with an overdate error, showing a faint “1” under the “2” in the date.
This mistake makes the 1942/1 Mercury Dime highly desirable, with values reaching tens of thousands of dollars, especially in top condition.
1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
This dime is a true mystery. Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint should have an “S” mint mark, but a few were struck without it.
Only two examples of the 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime are known, making it one of the rarest modern U.S. coins. One sold for $456,000 in 2019.
1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Similar to the 1975 version, the 1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime was mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark.
While more exist than the 1975 version, they still fetch tens of thousands of dollars in auctions.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Most 1976 Bicentennial Quarters are only worth face value, but some exceptional versions bring in big money.
These coins feature a colonial drummer boy design by Jack L. Ahr, celebrating America’s 200th birthday.
1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
San Francisco minted special 40% silver proof quarters with a brilliant finish. While not extremely rare, high-grade specimens can still sell for hundreds of dollars.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter on Dime Planchet
This rare minting error occurred when the quarter’s design was struck onto a dime-sized planchet (the metal disk used for coins).
Because of its small size, this quarter looks highly unusual, making it worth thousands of dollars to collectors.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Doubled Die Obverse
A doubled die error happens when the coin’s design is accidentally impressed twice, creating a noticeable doubling effect.
On the 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter, this error appears on the date and lettering. Some high-grade versions can fetch hundreds or even thousands.
1976 Aluminum Bicentennial Quarter
In the 1970s, the U.S. Mint experimented with aluminum coins due to rising copper costs. While no aluminum bicentennial quarters were officially released, if one were found and legally owned, it could be worth millions.
The Thrill of the Hunt
Most of these rare dimes and quarters are safely stored in private collections or museums. But that doesn’t mean you won’t stumble upon a valuable coin!
Check your old piggy banks, inherited collections, and even pocket change—you never know what treasures you might find.
FAQs
How much is the 1894-S Barber Dime worth?
In top condition, it can sell for over $2 million.
What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime special?
It was minted in limited numbers, making it a key rarity.
Why is the 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime valuable?
Only two exist, making it one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
Are 1976 Bicentennial Quarters worth money?
Most are common, but rare versions can be worth thousands.
How can I find rare coins?
Check old collections, piggy banks, and even pocket change.
