Who would have thought that a small dime could fetch nearly a million dollars at auction? Some rare dimes, once considered everyday pocket change, have become treasures worth up to $950,000. These coins are prized for their rarity, unique errors, or limited production, making them highly sought after by collectors. In this article, we delve into three record-breaking dimes—the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, the 1894-S Barber Dime, and the 1942/1 Mercury Dime—and how you can identify them in your collection.
1. The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime: A Modern Rarity
Why It’s Worth $950,000
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is an error coin that originated from proof sets minted in San Francisco. These dimes should have the signature “S” mintmark, but a few were mistakenly struck without it. Only two examples are known to exist, making this coin one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
This Combo of Quarter and Dime Just Sold for $2.5 Million—Do You Have Them?
Record Auction Sales
In 2019, a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime sold for $456,000, and experts believe a perfect-grade example could command $950,000 or more in today’s market.
How to Identify It
- Look for a missing “S” mintmark on the proof set dime.
- This dime is only found in 1975 proof sets, so start there if you have one in your collection.
2. The 1894-S Barber Dime: A Legendary Treasure
The Story Behind Its Rarity
The 1894-S Barber Dime is a numismatic legend. Minted in 1894, only 24 coins were produced, possibly as a favor or to balance mint records. Today, just nine examples are known to exist, each commanding a small fortune.
Record Auction Prices
In pristine condition, the 1894-S Barber Dime has sold for millions of dollars, but even lower-grade specimens can fetch $950,000 or more at auction.
How to Identify It
- Check for the “S” mintmark on the reverse, beneath the wreath.
- The date 1894 is essential—authenticate with a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
3. The 1942/1 Mercury Dime: The Overdate Error
Why It’s Valuable
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime features a unique overdate error, where traces of the previous year’s “1” are visible under the “2” in the date. This error was quickly corrected, leaving only a small number of these coins in circulation.
Rising Value
The value of the 1942/1 Mercury Dime has steadily climbed over the years. A high-grade example could now fetch $950,000, making it one of the most valuable error coins in U.S. history.
How to Identify It
- Look closely at the date for the overlapping “1” under the “2”.
- Have the coin authenticated to confirm the overdate error and its condition.
Why These Dimes Are So Valuable
Key Factors Driving Their Record-Breaking Prices
- Rarity: Each of these coins was produced in limited quantities or resulted from rare minting errors.
- Historical Significance: Their unique stories and minting circumstances make them historically important.
- Collector Demand: The numismatic community prizes these coins, driving up their value at auctions.
FAQs: Your Questions About Rare Dimes Answered
1. What makes these dimes worth up to $950,000?
Their rarity, historical significance, and unique minting features, such as errors or limited production, make them highly valuable.
2. Can these dimes still be found in circulation?
No, these coins are no longer in circulation and are typically found in old collections, proof sets, or auction houses.
3. How can I identify these rare dimes?
- 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime: Missing “S” mintmark in proof sets.
- 1894-S Barber Dime: “S” mintmark and the date 1894.
- 1942/1 Mercury Dime: Overdate error visible in the “1942” date.
4. How can I verify my dime’s authenticity?
Submit your coin to professional grading services like PCGS or NGC for authentication and valuation.
5. Where can I sell my rare dime?
Authenticated coins can be sold through reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or to private collectors.
Conclusion: Don’t Overlook Your Spare Change
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, 1894-S Barber Dime, and 1942/1 Mercury Dime have rewritten the history books of numismatics with their record-breaking prices. These small coins hold immense value due to their rarity, errors, and historical significance. If you have an old coin collection, it’s worth a closer look—you might discover a hidden treasure worth up to $950,000.