Dimes are often overlooked in coin collecting, but certain rare dimes have proven to be some of the most valuable coins in history. While a single dime might seem insignificant in everyday life, the stories, rarity, and historical significance behind some dimes have made them worth millions of dollars. In fact, a select group of these small coins has a combined value of $8.6 million. Let’s explore these exceptional treasures and why they command such astronomical prices.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – Worth Over $2 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the holy grail for dime collectors. Only 24 were minted, and today, only nine are confirmed to exist. The coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint as a special run, possibly as gifts for bankers or to balance accounts.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Extremely Low Mintage: With only nine known examples, its rarity drives immense demand.
- Provenance: Many surviving examples have rich histories, adding to their allure.
In pristine condition, this coin has sold for upwards of $2 million, making it one of the most valuable dimes in the world.
2. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime – Worth $1.8 Million
The 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime is another incredibly rare coin that has captivated collectors for generations. Struck at the Carson City Mint, this dime was minted during a transitional year, making its “No Arrows” version particularly rare.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Mint Closure: The Carson City Mint had a short operational history, limiting the number of coins it produced.
- Historical Significance: This dime represents a significant era of American coinage.
Only one example has been confirmed to exist, and it sold for $1.84 million at auction.
3. 1916-D Mercury Dime – Worth Over $250,000 in Mint State
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a cornerstone of 20th-century coin collecting. It was the first year of production for the Mercury Dime, and the Denver Mint produced only 264,000 pieces, a remarkably low number for the era.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Low Mintage: The Denver Mint’s production was far smaller than its Philadelphia and San Francisco counterparts.
- Condition Matters: High-grade examples in mint condition can sell for six figures.
In Mint State 67, a 1916-D dime fetched over $250,000 at auction, cementing its place among valuable U.S. dimes.
4. 1796 Draped Bust Dime – Worth $1.5 Million in Top Condition
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime was the first dime ever struck by the U.S. Mint, making it a key coin in American numismatics. With a mintage of only 22,135, surviving examples are highly sought after.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Historical Importance: As the first dime, it holds immense significance in U.S. coinage.
- Condition: While circulated examples are valuable, uncirculated pieces can reach $1.5 million.
Its historical legacy makes it a centerpiece for advanced collectors.
5. Proof Roosevelt Dime with No S Mintmark – Worth $500,000
While it might look like an ordinary dime, the 1975 Proof Roosevelt Dime with No S Mintmark is anything but. Proof dimes were supposed to have an “S” mintmark to denote their production in San Francisco, but a small number were mistakenly struck without it.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Mint Error: Proof coins are typically inspected closely, making errors rare.
- Modern Rarity: Despite being a newer coin, its scarcity adds value.
Only two examples are known, and one sold for $456,000 at auction.
Conclusion
These dimes collectively showcase the incredible value hidden in small coins. Their worth isn’t just measured in monetary terms but also in historical importance, rarity, and craftsmanship. From the 1894-S Barber Dime’s mysterious origins to the minting error of the Proof Roosevelt Dime, each of these coins tells a story that captivates collectors worldwide.
FAQs
1. How many 1894-S Barber Dimes exist today?
Only nine examples are confirmed to exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
2. What is unique about the 1975 Proof Roosevelt Dime with No S Mintmark?
It’s a modern rarity caused by a minting error, with only two known examples.
3. Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime so valuable?
Its low mintage and status as the first-year issue of the Mercury Dime series make it highly collectible, especially in mint condition.