As the 250th anniversary of American independence draws near, coin collecting is heating up like never before. With patriotic enthusiasm in full swing, collectors are hunting down rare finds—especially dimes and Bicentennial quarters that could be hiding serious value.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just someone curious about the change in your pocket, this guide is your golden ticket to knowing which coins could make you rich.
Table of Content
Dimes
Let’s look into five rare dimes that have turned heads and bank accounts. Some are nearly mythical in rarity, others the result of freak minting accidents—but all are worth a look.
1894-S
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the stuff of legends. Only 24 were ever minted, and just 9 are known to exist today. Struck at the San Francisco Mint to balance its books, this dime has become one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins in history.
What to Look For:
- The “S” mint mark below the wreath on the reverse
- Classic Barber head design
Value: Recently, one fetched over $2 million at auction. If you ever see one, count your lucky stars.
1916-D
Next up: the 1916-D Mercury Dime. It’s not ancient, but with only 264,000 minted in Denver, it’s a major prize for 20th-century coin fans.
Key Identifier:
- A “D” mint mark on the reverse under the wreath
Price Tag:
- Common in worn condition for $10,000+, while pristine ones can soar over $100,000
1975 No-S
Here’s where things get really weird—in a good way. The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a modern marvel caused by a minting blunder. These proof coins were supposed to have an “S” mint mark… but oops, someone forgot.
Why It’s Special:
- Only two known examples
Recent Sale:
- One went for a mind-blowing $456,000 in 2019
Hot Tip: If you have old proof sets, it’s time to check them closely.
1968 No-S
Just like the 1975 error, the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime was another goof by the San Francisco Mint. Only this time, fewer than 20 are known to survive.
Verification:
- Use a magnifier to double-check that missing “S.” Many fakes float around
Market Value:
- Top-grade examples bring in $30,000+
1942/1
Last but definitely not least, the 1942/1 Mercury Dime is famous for its wartime overdate error—where a “1” can be seen under the “2” in the year.
Collectors Love It:
- It’s a key date in the Mercury dime series
Pricing:
- Rough examples go for $500+, and top-condition pieces can hit $10,000+
| Rare Dime | Estimated Value | Key Identifier |
|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber | $2 million+ | “S” mint mark, Barber design |
| 1916-D Mercury | $10,000–$100,000+ | “D” under wreath |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt | $450,000+ | No “S” on proof coin |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt | $30,000+ | Missing “S” on proof |
| 1942/1 Mercury | $500–$10,000+ | Overdate visible in year |
Bicentennial
Now let’s talk quarters—specifically Bicentennial Quarters from 1976. While most are common, some are shockingly valuable due to rare errors or special mintings.
Worthy Quarters
- Silver-clad Proofs (not standard circulation coins): These were minted in San Francisco and can fetch $10–$50, sometimes more if graded
- Double die errors or off-center strikes: These can go for $250+
- High-grade uncirculated versions: Even regular strikes in MS67+ condition can sell for $500+ at auctions
Don’t underestimate the value of a shiny 1976 quarter in mint condition. With errors or silver content, its worth can jump fast.
So, next time you empty your coin jar or check change from the grocery store, keep your eyes peeled. That ordinary-looking dime or quarter could be hiding a small fortune.
FAQs
How many 1894-S Barber Dimes exist?
Only 9 are known to exist today.
What makes the 1975 No-S Dime rare?
It’s a proof coin missing the mint mark—only two exist.
Is the 1916-D Mercury Dime valuable?
Yes, it can sell for over $100,000 in top condition.
Are Bicentennial quarters valuable?
Some are, especially error coins or silver proofs.
What is an overdate error coin?
It’s when a number was mistakenly struck over another.
