Dimes might be small, but some have reached incredible valuations due to limited mintage, unique errors, or historical significance. Here are seven rare dimes to watch for:
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest and most celebrated dimes in U.S. history. Only 24 were minted, making it an extraordinary find. A well-preserved 1894-S Barber Dime can command upwards of a million dollars at auction. Spotting one of these is like discovering a time capsule from the past, so if you find one, hold onto it!
1916-D Mercury Dime
Minted in Denver, the 1916-D Mercury Dime was the first in the series, produced in very limited quantities. Collectors prize this coin, with values reaching around $300,000 for one in mint condition. Always check the year and mint mark when you come across a Mercury Dime—you never know what treasure may be hiding in plain sight!
1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is a fascinating error coin, created when the die struck both 1941 and 1942 dates on the same dime. This unusual error can make these coins worth up to $200,000, so keep a lookout for this rare double-struck detail.
1982 Roosevelt Dime (No P Mint Mark)
This dime is a modern rarity, minted without the “P” mint mark, an accidental omission by the U.S. Mint. A 1982 Roosevelt Dime missing this detail can sell for around $1,000, showing how even minor mistakes can lead to major rewards for collectors.
1996-W Roosevelt Dime
Issued to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime, the 1996-W Dime was minted at West Point and distributed only in select coin sets. Today, these commemorative dimes are worth around $1,000. If you have one tucked away, it’s worth pulling out for a closer look!
2004 Wisconsin State Quarter Dime
In 2004, an unusual error appeared on some Wisconsin state quarters, with certain editions featuring extra leaves on the corn stalk. Although not officially a dime, these rare misprint coins have seen values of up to $25,000 due to their distinct design anomaly.
2005-P Speared Bison Dime
This 2005 dime features an unusual error that looks like a “spear” through the side of the bison on the reverse. Known as the “Speared Bison” error, this coin can be worth as much as $10,000. Unique errors like this are what drive the value up, and the Speared Bison dime is no exception.
| Coin | Year | Value (USD) | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | Up to $1 million | Extremely low mintage, only 24 produced |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | $300,000 | First year of series, low mintage in Denver |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | 1942 | $200,000 | Double-struck error |
| 1982 Roosevelt Dime (No P Mint Mark) | 1982 | $1,000 | Missing “P” mint mark |
| 1996-W Roosevelt Dime | 1996 | $1,000 | West Point commemorative edition |
| 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter | 2004 | $25,000 | Error with extra leaf on corn stalk |
| 2005-P Speared Bison Dime | 2005 | $10,000 | “Speared” bison design error |
FAQs
Why are error coins so valuable?
Error coins are valuable because they’re rare, often unintentional, and stand out from regular mint issues.
What should I look for on a rare dime?
Check the date, mint mark, and for any visible minting errors, like double strikes or missing marks.
Is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter always valuable?
Only certain Bicentennial Quarters, especially those in excellent condition or with unique errors, reach high values.
Can modern coins be worth a lot?
Yes! Some modern coins, especially with mint errors, can fetch impressive prices among collectors.
How can I know if I have a rare dime?
Research the coin’s year and mint mark, and compare it to known rare coins or consult a professional appraiser.
