It might sound unbelievable, but some rare American dimes have sold for extraordinary amounts—so rare and valuable that five of them combined are worth over $100 million.
These dimes, still potentially in circulation, have made headlines in the coin collecting world and continue to spark excitement among collectors and everyday people alike.
If you’ve ever held on to a dime from spare change because it looked unusual—this article will help you discover if you might be holding a small fortune.
What Makes a Dime Valuable?
A dime becomes valuable due to a combination of low mintage, historical significance, minting errors, and condition. Some of these coins were produced in such small quantities or with such rare features that collectors are willing to pay hundreds of thousands—or even millions—for them.
The 5 Ultra Rare Dimes and Their Estimated Worth
Here are the five most sought-after rare dimes, along with their characteristics and estimated value:
| Coin | Year | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | Only 24 minted, fewer than 10 known | Up to $2 million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | First-year issue with low Denver mintage | Up to $20,000 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | 1942 | Overdate error (1942 stamped over 1941) | Up to $25,000 |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | Proof coin missing San Francisco mint mark | Up to $40,000 |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | Proof coin without mint mark – only 2 known | Over $500,000 |
Quick Facts About Each Rare Dime
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
Only 24 dimes were minted in San Francisco in 1894, and less than 10 are known to exist today. This dime is considered a holy grail of U.S. coinage. One of these has sold for over $1.9 million at auction.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The Denver Mint produced just 264,000 of these in 1916. Collectors seek this first-year design, and dimes in high-grade condition can reach $20,000 or more.
3. 1942/1 Mercury Dime
A rare overdate error occurred when 1942 was stamped over 1941. These dimes are extremely collectible and can be worth $10,000 to $25,000 depending on grade.
4. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
This proof coin, meant to include an “S” mint mark for San Francisco, was mistakenly struck without it. Only a few are known to exist. Collectors value it at up to $40,000.
5. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Only two confirmed examples of this proof coin exist. One sold for over half a million dollars, making it one of the rarest dimes in U.S. history.
How to Spot One in Your Pocket
To check if your dime is worth a fortune:
- Look at the date and mint mark: Most mint marks appear near the torch or the base of the neck, depending on the design.
- Check for unusual features: Overdates, missing mint marks, or sharp strikes on proof coins can signal value.
- Evaluate the condition: Coins with minimal wear are much more valuable.
- Compare online or with a professional: If it seems promising, have it graded by a reputable coin appraiser.
While most dimes are worth just ten cents, a lucky few could be worth tens of thousands—or even millions. These ultra-rare American dimes continue to circulate unknowingly in wallets, jars, and cash drawers across the country.
So next time you get change, don’t overlook that small silver coin—it might be the key to a small fortune. Check your pockets—you could be holding history in your hands.
FAQs
Can these rare dimes still be found in circulation?
Yes. While rare, coins from old collections often end up in circulation. Always check your change, especially older dimes.
Are damaged coins still valuable?
Some rare coins still hold value even in worn condition, but coins in better shape fetch much higher prices.
Where should I sell a valuable coin?
Consult a certified coin dealer or major coin auction house. Avoid selling valuable coins at face value or to pawn shops.