Most dimes and quarters in your pocket are only worth face value, but a few rare versions can be worth thousands—or even millions—of dollars. Some of these hidden treasures result from minting errors, low production numbers, or historical significance. Let’s look into eight extraordinary coins that could turn an ordinary find into a life-changing fortune.
Barber
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most legendary and valuable coins in American history.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 24 of these dimes were ever minted, and fewer than ten are known to exist today. This extreme rarity makes it worth over $1 million, with some examples selling for even more at auction.
What to Look For
- Minted in San Francisco (look for the “S“ mint mark)
- Very few were circulated, so condition is crucial
- If you find one, get it authenticated immediately
Mercury
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another rare and valuable dime highly sought after by collectors.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 264,000 were minted, a small number for its time. Well-preserved examples can sell for over $100,000.
What to Look For
- “D” mint mark (Denver) below the “ONE DIME“ on the reverse
- High-grade examples fetch the most money
- One of the most famous dimes in U.S. numismatics
Carson
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a rare piece from the historic Carson City Mint in Nevada.
Why It’s Valuable
- Minted in Carson City with the “CC“ mint mark
- Extremely low survival rate, making it rare
- Can be worth over $50,000 in excellent condition
What to Look For
- “CC” mint mark on the reverse
- Some versions were made without arrows near the date, making them even rarer
No-S
The 1968 and 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dimes are error coins that were accidentally minted without the “S” mint mark from San Francisco.
Why It’s Valuable
- These dimes were only supposed to be in proof sets, but some were released into circulation
- Each is worth up to $20,000 in good condition
What to Look For
- No “S“ mint mark below Roosevelt’s neck
- Must be a proof coin to have value
No-P
The 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime was the first regular U.S. coin ever made without its mint mark.
Why It’s Valuable
- It was a mistake at the Philadelphia Mint
- Fewer exist than originally thought
- High-quality examples can sell for up to $5,000
What to Look For
- No “P“ mint mark on the obverse
- A normal 1982 dime should have a “P“, so missing it makes it rare
Double
The 1955 Roosevelt Dime Double Die Error is a unique coin due to an error during the minting process.
Why It’s Valuable
- Shows distinct doubling on the date and lettering
- Can be worth up to $2,000 in good condition
What to Look For
- Look closely at the date—doubling is a clear sign of a valuable error
Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was made to celebrate America’s 200th birthday.
Why It’s Valuable
- Most are worth only 25 cents, but silver-clad and proof versions can be worth over $1,000
- Some rare errors and high-grade examples sell for even more
What to Look For
- Special drummer boy design on the reverse
- Silver versions have a solid silver edge, not a copper stripe
If you have old dimes or quarters, check your pocket change—you might be holding a fortune. Rare coins are still out there, waiting to be observed!
FAQs
How much is an 1894-S Barber Dime worth?
It can sell for over $1 million due to its extreme rarity.
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime valuable?
Only 264,000 were minted, making it a key collector’s coin.
What is special about the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime?
It was the first U.S. coin accidentally made without a mint mark.
How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
Check if it’s silver-clad or a proof version; those are worth the most.
Where should I sell a rare dime or quarter?
Auction houses, coin dealers, and grading services are best options.
