5 Rare Dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter: Throughout American numismatic history, dimes have captured the fascination of collectors, often emerging as hidden treasures with astonishing values. These small yet significant silver coins, measuring just 17.91mm in diameter, have yielded some of the rarest and most valuable finds in coin collecting.
When paired with a unique variety of the 1976 Bicentennial quarter, these coins present the thrilling possibility that a life-changing fortune could be lurking in everyday pocket change or forgotten coin jars.
This article explores five remarkable dimes and an extraordinary Bicentennial quarter that every collector, investor, and coin enthusiast should be aware of.
The pursuit of these coins continues to fuel the excitement of numismatists, from professional dealers to casual hobbyists, across the nation.
1. The 1916-D Mercury Dime: The Crown Jewel of 20th-Century Dimes
Estimated Value: $1,200 to $22,000+
The 1916-D Mercury dime reigns as one of the most coveted dimes of the 20th century. Struck at the Denver Mint during the first year of the Mercury dime series, its value is driven by its exceptionally low mintage—only 264,000 were produced, a tiny fraction compared to typical dime production numbers.
This rarity arose due to the Denver Mint’s priority shift toward quarter production that year, leading to a significantly limited dime output. The distinguishing feature of this coin is the small “D” mintmark on the reverse, beneath the fasces. Since it closely resembles common Mercury dimes, undiscovered specimens could still be hidden in old collections.
In circulated condition, the 1916-D starts around $1,200. A fine-grade specimen can fetch $2,500 to $5,000, while an uncirculated example commands $10,000 to over $22,000. Due to its high value, counterfeits are common often regular 1916 dimes with an added “D” mintmark so authentication is crucial.
2. The 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate: A Wartime Error Worth Thousands
Estimated Value: $500 to $12,500+
During World War II, production pressures at the U.S. Mint led to a remarkable error: the 1942/1 Mercury dime overdate. This occurred when a 1942 die was struck over a 1941 die, leaving remnants of the “1” visible beneath the “2.”
This mistake appeared at both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, with the Philadelphia version (lacking a mintmark) being significantly rarer. In circulated condition, this overdate variety commands $500 to $1,000, while uncirculated examples start at $2,500 and can exceed $12,500 for premium grades.
Given its wartime origin, this dime holds historical significance beyond its numismatic value, representing a period when the Mint was adapting to material shortages and operational challenges.
3. The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: A Modern-Day Rarity
Estimated Value: $20,000 to $30,000+
Most proof coins bear a mintmark indicating their origin, but a small number of 1968 Roosevelt dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mintmark of the San Francisco Mint. Only about 12-15 examples of this No-S proof dime are known, making it one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
The error likely resulted from an unfinished die being mistakenly used. The rarity of this dime has made it highly sought after, with auction prices exceeding $20,000 and top-grade examples surpassing $30,000.
4. The 1894-S Barber Dime: A Legendary Million-Dollar Coin
Estimated Value: $1,000,000 to $2,000,000+
The 1894-S Barber dime is one of the most famous and valuable U.S. coins, with only 24 struck and just 9-10 known to exist today. Its origins remain debated, but one theory suggests it was minted to balance the San Francisco Mint’s books. Another legend tells of the Mint Superintendent gifting three to his daughter, who unknowingly spent one on ice cream.
This dime consistently commands seven-figure prices, with even heavily worn examples fetching over $1 million. The finest known specimen sold for nearly $2 million in 2016. Its rarity and mystique make it one of the ultimate trophies in coin collecting.
5. The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: The King of Modern Rarities
Estimated Value: $450,000 to $550,000+
Even rarer than the 1968 No-S dime, the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt dime is a numismatic enigma. Only two verified specimens exist, both discovered in original proof sets. This extreme rarity likely resulted from an experimental die that was inadvertently used before being caught.
When one appeared at auction in 1979, it sold for $38,550 an astonishing price at the time. Today, these dimes are valued between $450,000 and $550,000, placing them among the most valuable post-WWII U.S. coins.
The 1976 No-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter: A Patriotic Treasure
Estimated Value: $150,000 to $200,000+
To commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, the U.S. Mint released special Bicentennial quarters featuring a colonial drummer. While millions of these coins circulated, a tiny number of proof versions lack the “S” mintmark, making them extremely rare.
Only two verified No-S Bicentennial quarters exist, likely due to an error in the minting process. One of these rare quarters sold for $188,000 at auction in 2013, with experts now estimating their value between $150,000 and $200,000.
How to Find These Rare Coins?
While some of these rarities are nearly impossible to find in circulation, dedicated collectors can take several approaches:
- Searching Circulation: Though unlikely, older coins like the 1916-D Mercury dime or the 1942/1 overdate may still be found in inherited collections.
- Examining Proof Sets: The No-S proof varieties can only be discovered in original government-issued proof sets from 1968, 1975, and 1976.
- Monitoring Auctions: Established auction houses such as Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers occasionally offer these rarities.
- Checking Inherited Collections: Some of the rarest finds come from unsearched estates or coin collections passed down through generations.
Authentication Is Key
Due to their high value, these coins are frequently counterfeited. Experts recommend professional authentication, especially for:
- 1916-D Mercury Dime: Look for fake mintmarks added to common 1916 dimes.
- 1942/1 Overdate: Genuine overdates show clear remnants of the “1” under magnification.
- No-S Proof Coins: Forgeries often involve mintmarks being removed from regular proof coins.
- 1894-S Barber Dime: This million-dollar rarity should always be authenticated by PCGS or NGC.
Conclusion: The Thrill of the Hunt
These five rare dimes and the exceptional Bicentennial quarter represent some of the most extraordinary discoveries in American numismatics. Whether due to minting errors, historical circumstances, or simple miscalculations, these coins continue to intrigue collectors and investors alike.
While the odds of finding one in circulation are slim, the possibility remains fueling the passion of numismatists across generations. Whether as investments, historical artifacts, or collector’s treasures, these coins serve as timeless symbols of rarity and value in the world of numismatics.
The next time you check your change, take a closer look you might just be holding a hidden fortune.