Dimes are an important part of U.S. coin history, with some of them being incredibly rare and valuable. For collectors and numismatists, certain dimes stand out because of their unique features, historical significance, and scarcity. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 10 of the most sought-after dimes that have captured the attention of collectors for years.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
- Mintage: 24
- Estimated Value: Up to $1.9 million
- Notable Sale: Sold for $1,997,500 in 2007
- Details: This dime is one of the rarest U.S. coins. Minted in San Francisco, only 24 were produced, mostly as gifts for dignitaries. Today, only nine are known to exist, making it highly valuable for collectors.
2. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- Mintage: Unknown; very limited
- Estimated Value: Around $500,000
- Notable Sale: Sold for $456,000 in 2019
- Details: This coin is famous for an error – it lacks the “S” mint mark. Only two such dimes are known to exist, making it an extremely rare find.
3. 1916-D Mercury Dime
- Mintage: 264,000
- Estimated Value: Up to $207,000
- Notable Sale: Sold for $207,000
- Details: The 1916-D is valuable because it’s the first year the Mercury design was used, and the mintage was low, making it a coveted coin for collectors.
4. 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime (No Arrows)
- Mintage: Unknown; very limited
- Estimated Value: Approximately $1.84 million
- Notable Sale: Sold for $1,840,000
- Details: Minted in Carson City, this dime is rare because it doesn’t have the arrows found on most other Seated Liberty dimes from this time period.
5. 1804 Draped Bust Dime
- Mintage: 8,265
- Estimated Value: Up to $632,500
- Notable Sale: Sold for $632,500
- Details: As one of the earliest U.S. dimes, this coin is a significant piece of history. The 14 Stars variety is especially valuable.
6. 1822 Capped Bust Dime
- Mintage: 100,000
- Estimated Value: Up to $440,625
- Notable Sale: Sold for $440,625
- Details: Rare in proof condition, this dime is hard to find in good condition, making it very valuable for collectors.
7. 1871-CC Seated Liberty Dime
- Mintage: 20,100
- Estimated Value: Up to $270,250
- Notable Sale: Sold for $270,250
- Details: Another Carson City mint coin, this dime is valuable because of its low mintage and important role in the history of U.S. coinage.
8. 1796 Draped Bust Dime
- Mintage: 22,135
- Estimated Value: Up to $881,250
- Notable Sale: Sold for $881,250
- Details: As the first year of U.S. dime production, this coin is both historically significant and highly valuable.
9. 1919-D Mercury Dime (Full Bands)
- Mintage: 9,939,000
- Estimated Value: Up to $218,500
- Notable Sale: Sold for $218,500
- Details: The Full Bands feature makes this coin highly desirable. It indicates that the bands on the reverse of the coin were fully struck, making it more valuable.
10. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- Mintage: Unknown; very limited
- Estimated Value: Up to $48,875
- Notable Sale: Sold for $48,875
- Details: This modern error coin lacks the “S” mint mark, making it rare and valuable for collectors of modern U.S. coins.
Collecting dimes offers a unique glimpse into U.S. history, especially when you come across one of the rare and valuable ones mentioned above. These dimes are more than just coins; they represent important moments in American numismatic history.
For collectors, knowing what to look for, such as mint marks and special features like Full Bands, can help you spot a hidden treasure.
What makes a dime valuable?
Dimes are valuable based on their rarity, minting errors, historical significance, and condition. Special features like mint marks and Full Bands can make them worth more.
Why is the 1894-S Barber Dime so rare?
Only 24 were made, and today only nine are known to exist. It was originally produced as a gift for dignitaries, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
What is a “Full Bands” Mercury Dime?
A “Full Bands” Mercury Dime has clear, fully struck bands on the reverse side, which significantly increases its value compared to regular versions.
How can I tell if my dime is valuable?
Look for rare mint marks, errors, or special designs. If your dime has features like a missing mint mark or a “Full Bands” designation, it might be worth more.
Are modern dimes worth collecting?
Yes! Even modern errors, like the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, can be worth significant amounts due to their rarity.
