While most dimes and quarters are only worth face value, a handful of rare versions are worth thousands to even millions of dollars — and some are still in circulation. Collectors and coin hunters alike continue to search for these elusive treasures hidden in plain sight. Among the most valuable are certain rare dimes and 1976 Bicentennial coins that were minted with errors, low production numbers, or unique compositions.
Let’s explore five of the most valuable dimes and bicentennial coins that could still be out there—and how to spot one if you’re lucky.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – Worth up to $2 Million
This is one of the rarest and most legendary coins in U.S. history. Only 24 of the 1894-S Barber dimes were ever minted at the San Francisco Mint, and only 9 to 12 are believed to still exist today. Most were given to bankers’ children or held as presentation pieces.
What to Look For:
- “1894” date
- “S” mint mark (below the wreath on the reverse)
- Very fine detail; most are in proof condition
If you find this coin, you could be holding a $1.5–$2 million fortune.
2. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Worth $500,000+
This coin was struck without a mint mark at a time when all proof coins were supposed to have an “S” mint mark for San Francisco. Only a few examples of the 1975 No-S proof Roosevelt dime escaped into the public, making it one of the most valuable modern coins ever struck.
What to Look For:
- 1975 date
- No mint mark on proof-quality coin
- Mirror-like surfaces typical of proof coins
Only two known examples have been confirmed, with one selling for $456,000.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark or Silver Composition) – Worth $10,000+
To celebrate America’s 200th birthday, the U.S. Mint released special Bicentennial quarters in 1976, featuring a colonial drummer on the reverse and dual dates “1776–1976.” While hundreds of millions were made, some were struck in 40% silver, and a few rare error versions without mint marks or struck on the wrong metal planchets can be worth over $10,000.
What to Look For:
- Dual date: “1776–1976”
- Missing mint mark or struck on silver (test with a scale: silver coins weigh ~5.75g)
- High-grade condition or any unusual striking errors
These coins can show up in older proof sets or occasionally in circulation.
4. 1942/41 Mercury Dime Overdate – Worth $10,000–$30,000
This error coin resulted from the 1942 die being struck over a 1941 die, creating a visible overdate. It’s a popular coin with collectors and commands a high price when in good condition.
What to Look For:
- 1942 date that looks doubled (especially the “2” over “1”)
- Found mostly from the Philadelphia or Denver Mint
- A strong magnifier helps confirm the overdate
In uncirculated condition, this error dime can fetch up to $30,000.
5. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Worth $20,000–$40,000
Another proof coin mistakenly struck without a mint mark, the 1968 No-S dime is one of the first known modern U.S. coin errors of its kind. Like the 1975 No-S dime, this one was supposed to have an “S” mint mark but doesn’t.
What to Look For:
- 1968 date with no mint mark on a proof coin
- High mirror-like finish
- Only proof coins struck in San Francisco were affected
High-grade examples have sold for $20,000–$40,000 or more.
Summary Table: 5 Rare Dimes & Bicentennial Coins Worth Big
| Coin | Key Feature | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | Only 24 minted | $1.5M–$2M |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | Missing mint mark on proof coin | $456,000+ |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Error or Silver) | No mint mark or silver planchet | $10,000+ |
| 1942/41 Mercury Dime Overdate | Overstamped year | $10,000–$30,000 |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime | Proof coin with no mint mark | $20,000–$40,000 |
How to Spot a Rare Coin
You don’t need to be a numismatic expert to spot something valuable. Here are some quick tips:
- Use a magnifying glass to inspect dates and mint marks
- Weigh coins to check for silver content or planchet errors
- Look for doubling, misprints, or unusual shine
- Don’t clean coins—original condition is more valuable
- Check proof sets or older family coin jars for oddities
FAQs:
Are these coins really still in circulation?
While rare, some of these coins—especially error strikes—can occasionally be found in circulation or hidden in old coin collections and estate finds.
How can I get my coin appraised?
Visit a reputable coin dealer or use third-party services like PCGS or NGC for professional grading and appraisal.
Do silver Bicentennial coins say “silver” on them?
Not always. You’ll need to weigh the coin or check the edge for a solid silver stripe (no copper core visible).
