Throughout American numismatic history, dimes have consistently offered collectors some of the most thrilling and valuable treasure-hunting opportunities. These small silver coins, measuring just 17.91mm in diameter, have produced extraordinary rarities that command incredible prices in today’s market.
When combined with a particular variety of the 1976 Bicentennial quarter, these coins create the tantalizing possibility that life-changing wealth might be hidden in everyday pocket change or forgotten coin jars across the nation.
This article explores five extraordinary dime varieties and one exceptional Bicentennial quarter that every collector, investor, and curious enthusiast should be aware of.
The pursuit of these rare coins continues to drive the passion of numismatists across America, from professional dealers to weekend hobbyists.
1. The 1916-D Mercury Dime: The King of 20th-Century Dimes
Estimated Value: $1,200 to $22,000+
The 1916-D Mercury dime is widely regarded as the crown jewel of 20th-century dime collecting. Struck at the Denver Mint during the first year of the Mercury (or Winged Liberty Head) dime series, its extraordinary value is due to its exceptionally low mintage-only 264,000 pieces-far fewer than the millions typically produced.
This scarcity resulted from the Denver Mint prioritizing quarter production over dimes that year, unknowingly creating one of America’s most coveted coins.
At first glance, the 1916-D Mercury dime appears ordinary. Only the small “D” mintmark on the reverse, located beneath the fasces (a bundle of rods symbolizing authority), distinguishes it from common Mercury dimes. This subtle detail means undiscovered examples could still be hiding in old collections or coin jars.
In circulated condition, a genuine 1916-D Mercury dime starts at approximately $1,200. Well-preserved specimens in Fine condition fetch $2,500 to $5,000, while uncirculated examples can range from $10,000 to over $22,000 in MS-65 or higher.
Counterfeit versions abound, often created by adding a fake “D” mintmark to common 1916 Philadelphia dimes. Authentication by professional grading services is crucial for this key date coin.
2. The 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate: A Wartime Error
Estimated Value: $500 to $12,500+
World War II placed immense pressure on the U.S. Mint, resulting in production errors, including the fascinating 1942/1 overdate Mercury dime. This mistake occurred when a 1942 die was punched over a 1941 die, leaving the remnants of the “1” visible beneath the “2.”
This error appears on dimes from both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, with the Philadelphia version (no mintmark) being significantly rarer and more valuable.
Circulated examples of the 1942/1 overdate (P) are worth $500 to $1,000. Uncirculated specimens start at around $2,500, with high-grade examples in MS-65 or better fetching between $10,000 and $12,500.
This error emerged during a time of transition at the Mint, as wartime constraints forced changes like the shift from copper to steel cents. The overdate dime remains a highly prized relic of that era.
3. The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: A Modern Rarity
Estimated Value: $20,000 to $30,000+
The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt dime is a striking example of a modern minting error. Proof coins, with their sharp details and mirror-like surfaces, are produced at the San Francisco Mint and always bear an “S” mintmark-except for this rare anomaly.
A small number of proof dimes escaped the Mint without the expected “S” mark. Only 12-15 specimens are known, making it one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
The error likely resulted from an unfinished die being placed into service before the mintmark was added. Despite rigorous quality control, these dimes slipped through and ended up in proof sets.
These coins fetch upwards of $20,000 at auction, with premium examples selling for $30,000 or more. The 1968 No-S dime proves that rare numismatic treasures can emerge from modern coinage.
4. The 1894-S Barber Dime: A Legendary Rarity
Estimated Value: $1,000,000 to $2,000,000+
The 1894-S Barber dime is one of the most famous and valuable American coins. With only 24 pieces struck at the San Francisco Mint and just 9-10 known today, its scarcity and mystery make it legendary.
The reason for such a tiny mintage is unclear. Some believe it was a bookkeeping adjustment by the Mint’s superintendent, while another tale suggests a few were gifted to his daughter-who reportedly spent one on ice cream.
Regardless of its origins, the 1894-S dime is a true collector’s trophy. Even in poor condition, it commands over $1 million. The finest example sold in 2016 for nearly $2 million.
5. The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: The Ultimate Modern Rarity
Estimated Value: $450,000 to $550,000+
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt dime is among the rarest modern U.S. coins. Like the 1968 No-S, it lacks the expected “S” mintmark, but it is far rarer-only two verified examples exist.
This anomaly likely resulted from an experimental die mistakenly used in production. These two dimes surfaced in original proof sets, making it nearly impossible to find another in circulation.
The first example sold for $38,550 in 1979, and its value has skyrocketed to approximately $500,000 today.
The 1976 No-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter: A Birthday Rarity
Estimated Value: $150,000 to $200,000+
The U.S. Mint celebrated America’s 200th birthday with special Bicentennial quarters featuring a colonial drummer and dual dates “1776-1976.” While millions were produced, a unique No-S Proof variety is the rarest of all.
Like the No-S dimes, these proof quarters should have borne an “S” mintmark, but a few were struck without it. Only two confirmed examples exist.
One sold for $188,000 in 2013, with experts valuing it today between $150,000 and $200,000. Given its rarity and historical significance, its value may continue to rise.
Hunting for These Rare Coins
- Checking Circulation: While modern rarities won’t be found in pocket change, older coins like the 1916-D Mercury dime or 1942/1 overdate could surface.
- Examining Proof Sets: The best way to find No-S proof coins is by inspecting original proof sets under magnification.
- Monitoring Auctions: High-value rarities appear at major auction houses like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers.
- Searching Inherited Collections: Many valuable coins are discovered in estates or old collections that have remained untouched for decades.
A Legacy of Rarity and Value
These five dimes and one quarter represent the pinnacle of American numismatics. Their stories span a century of history, minting errors, and extraordinary value. While the chances of finding one are slim, their existence continues to inspire collectors. Whether as investments, historical artifacts, or numismatic treasures, these coins remain some of the most sought-after rarities in American coinage.
