Ever wondered if your spare change could be hiding a life-changing treasure? Some rare U.S. coins, especially dimes and a special Bicentennial quarter, have been known to fetch thousands—and in some cases, millions of dollars. These coins are often overlooked but carry immense historical significance, minting errors, and collector demand.
In this guide, we’ll break down five of the most valuable dimes and a rare Bicentennial quarter, explain how to identify them, and give you practical tips for evaluating your own collection. With just a little knowledge, your pocket change could turn into a serious payday.
5 Rare Dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter: Quick Reference
| Coin | Rarity | Estimated Value | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | Only 9 known to exist | Up to $2.5 million | Ultra-low mintage; San Francisco mint |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 264,000 minted | Up to $152,750 (full bands) | Early Mercury dime with rare mint mark |
| 1919-D Mercury Dime | Full bands are rare | Up to $218,500 | Clear, full strike detail on reverse |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | Only 2 known | Up to $456,000 | Missing mint mark on a proof coin |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime | ~30 known | Up to $25,200 | Proof coin without mint mark |
| 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Error versions are rare | Up to $7,000 | Drummer design; sought-after error coins |
Why Are These Coins So Valuable?
The world of numismatics (coin collecting) revolves around a few major factors that determine value:
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Rarity: Limited mintage or printing errors create rarity.
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Condition: Coins in Mint State (uncirculated) are far more desirable.
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Historical Significance: Coins tied to specific historical events or periods command higher prices.
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Demand: Popular coins with unique stories or visuals fetch higher prices due to collector interest.
The Top 5 Rare Dimes Explained
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
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Why It’s Valuable: Only 24 were minted in San Francisco. Today, only nine are confirmed to exist.
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What to Look For: A clear “S” mint mark under the wreath on the reverse.
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Value: One sold for $1.99 million in 2016; another reached $2.5 million in 2020.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
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Why It’s Valuable: It’s the first Mercury dime, with only 264,000 minted in Denver.
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What to Look For: A “D” mint mark on the reverse and well-defined “full bands” on the fasces.
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Value: High-grade coins with full bands can sell for over $150,000.
3. 1919-D Mercury Dime
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Why It’s Valuable: Poor strikes from this era make well-struck versions with full bands hard to find.
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What to Look For: Strong, complete horizontal bands and minimal wear.
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Value: One such example sold for $218,500 at auction.
4. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
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Why It’s Valuable: A proof coin missing its “S” mint mark, which should have been present.
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What to Look For: A mirror-like proof finish and absence of the mint mark on the obverse.
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Value: One of only two known; sold for $456,000 in 2019.
5. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
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Why It’s Valuable: Another mint mark error on a proof coin.
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What to Look For: A shiny, mirror-like surface with no mint mark.
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Value: Up to $25,200 depending on condition.
The Bicentennial Quarter: A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight
The 1776–1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate the U.S. bicentennial. While hundreds of millions were produced, a few error coins are worth thousands.
Features to Watch:
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Colonial Drummer Design: Unique to the Bicentennial series.
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No Mint Mark or Errors:
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Double die errors on the date or inscriptions.
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Off-center strikes.
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Missing mint marks (no “D” or “S”).
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Potential Value:
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Error coins in pristine condition have sold for $1,000 to $7,000.
How to Identify Rare Coins in Your Collection
✅ Step 1: Visual Inspection
Use a magnifying glass to look for:
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Mint marks (or the lack thereof)
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Die errors (doubling, off-center designs)
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Condition (scratches, discoloration)
✅ Step 2: Compare and Research
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Use reputable resources like PCGS or NGC to compare your coin to verified rare examples.
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Check online auction results.
✅ Step 3: Get it Graded
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Have your coin authenticated and graded by professional services.
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This ensures fair value and makes it easier to sell.
✅ Step 4: Store Properly
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Keep coins in acid-free holders or airtight cases.
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Avoid touching them with bare hands—use gloves to prevent oils and wear.
Extra Tips for New Collectors
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Start with what you have—search old jars, coin rolls from banks, and family collections.
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Attend coin shows or local club meetings to learn more and meet experienced collectors.
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Document your finds with clear photos and notes for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I know if a coin is valuable?
A: Check the coin’s date, mint mark, and condition. Use guides from trusted numismatic sites or have it professionally graded.
Q: What does “full bands” mean on a dime?
A: It refers to the clear, full horizontal lines on the reverse of a Mercury dime. Full bands indicate a strong strike and greatly increase value.
Q: Can I still find these rare coins in circulation?
A: It’s rare, but possible—especially with the 1968 and 1975 dimes or error Bicentennial quarters. Searching through rolls or inherited collections offers the best chance.
Q: Where’s the best place to sell a rare coin?
A: Coin dealers, numismatic auction houses, or online platforms like eBay or Heritage Auctions. Always get a professional appraisal first.
Q: Are coins from the 1970s worth anything?
A: Most aren’t—but error coins from this era, like the No-S dimes or certain Bicentennial quarters, are worth serious money.
Q: How can I avoid damaging my coins?
A: Store them in protective cases, handle with gloves, and keep them in a climate-controlled, dry space. Avoid cleaning coins—it lowers their value.
Final Thoughts
Your pocket change could be worth more than you think. With a careful eye, some patience, and a little research, you might uncover a coin that collectors are willing to pay a small fortune for. Whether you’re a casual hobbyist or a budding numismatist, it pays to know what to look for.
Start checking your coin jar today—you just might be holding a millionaire’s dime or quarter.
