7 Rare Dimes and a Rare Bicentennial Quarter: Have you ever checked the change in your pocket and wondered if any of your coins might be worth a fortune? While most dimes and quarters only hold their face value, a few rare ones are worth staggering amounts—some even reaching $90 million!
These valuable coins, often overlooked, are still in circulation, meaning you could unknowingly possess one. In this article, we’ll uncover seven rare dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter that collectors are willing to pay millions for. Read on to learn about these hidden treasures and how you can identify them.
Overview of Rare Dimes and the Bicentennial Quarter
Here’s a quick look at the most valuable dimes and quarters you should keep an eye out for:
| Coin Name | Year | Notable Feature | Estimated Value |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | Only 24 ever minted | $90 million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Rare “D” mint mark | $100,000+ |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime | 1873 | Carson City mint mark “CC” | $50,000+ |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | Missing “S” mint mark | $20,000+ |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | Minting error, no “S” mark | $20,000+ |
| 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime | 1982 | First U.S. coin with no mint mark | $5,000+ |
| 1955 Roosevelt Dime | 1955 | Double die error | $2,000+ |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Silver-clad & proof versions | $1,000+ |
Now, let’s dive deeper into what makes these coins so valuable.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – The Holy Grail of Dimes
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most legendary coins in U.S. history. Only 24 were minted, and today, fewer than 10 are known to exist. Some experts believe these dimes were produced as special gifts or test pieces, making them extremely rare.
This coin’s rarity drives its immense value. If you find one, it could be worth as much as $90 million, making it one of the most sought-after coins in the world.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime – A Century-Old Treasure
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another valuable coin due to its low mintage. Only 264,000 were produced, making it one of the rarest Mercury Dimes. The key feature to look for is the small “D” mint mark on the reverse side, just below the torch.
In mint condition, this dime can fetch over $100,000, while even worn versions can still be worth thousands.
3. 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime – The Carson City Rarity
Minted in Carson City, Nevada, the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a rare and historic coin. The “CC” mint mark makes it distinct, and due to its limited mintage, it remains one of the most sought-after dimes among collectors.
Depending on its condition, this dime can be worth upwards of $50,000, making it a valuable find.
4. 1968 & 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dimes – The Minting Errors That Became Goldmines
Some 1968 and 1975 Roosevelt Dimes were mistakenly minted without the “S” mark, which typically indicates they were produced at the San Francisco Mint. These minting errors make these dimes extremely rare.
Collectors are willing to pay $20,000 or more for these coins. If you come across a dime from these years without a mint mark, get it appraised immediately!
5. 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime – The First U.S. Coin Without a Mint Mark
The 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime was the first U.S. coin ever released without a mint mark due to a mistake at the Philadelphia Mint. Normally, dimes from this mint should have a “P” mark, but some slipped through without one.
Though not as valuable as some of the others on this list, well-preserved No-P dimes can still fetch up to $5,000.
6. 1955 Roosevelt Dime – The Double Die Error
The 1955 Roosevelt Dime is famous for its double die error, where the design appears slightly duplicated due to a misalignment during minting. This small error makes the coin a valuable collector’s item.
Depending on its condition, it can sell for up to $2,000 or more. If you notice a dime with blurred or doubled lettering, you might have a rare one!
7. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – A Special Commemorative Coin
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was released to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. While most of these quarters are still only worth 25 cents, a few rare versions are silver-clad or proof editions, which makes them significantly more valuable.
If you come across a Bicentennial Quarter with a silver composition, it could be worth over $1,000. Look for quarters with a distinct silver sheen or special markings.
How to Identify Rare Coins in Your Change
If you’re wondering whether you own one of these rare coins, here are a few things to check:
- Mint Marks – Look for small letters like S, D, P, or CC on your coins.
- Year of Minting – Compare the year with the list above.
- Errors or Unique Features – Check for missing mint marks, double die errors, or unusual designs.
- Coin Condition – Coins in mint or uncirculated condition fetch higher prices.
Where to Sell Rare Coins
If you think you have a rare dime or Bicentennial Quarter, here are some ways to sell them:
- Auction Houses – Professional auctions specialize in rare coins.
- Coin Dealers – Local or online coin dealers can appraise and buy valuable coins.
- Online Marketplaces – Websites like eBay and Heritage Auctions allow collectors to bid on rare coins.
- Coin Shows & Conventions – These events bring collectors and dealers together for direct sales.
FAQs
How do I know if I have a rare dime?
Check the mint mark, year, and any unusual errors. Compare your coin with the list above.
What makes a dime valuable?
Coins become valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, minting errors, and demand from collectors.
Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
No, only silver-clad and proof versions have significant value. Most are worth only face value.
Where can I get my coins appraised?
You can visit coin dealers, auction houses, or numismatic experts for professional evaluation.
What is the rarest U.S. dime?
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the rarest, with an estimated value of up to $90 million.
Final Thoughts
Finding rare dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter in circulation is like discovering buried treasure. You never know—your pocket change could be worth millions! Before you spend your spare coins, take a closer look. You might just be holding a numismatic fortune!
If you enjoyed this article, share it with fellow collectors and let us know if you’ve ever found a rare coin! Happy hunting! 😊