Were you aware that a little spare change might be worth thousands – or even millions – of dollars? Although most dimes and quarters are valuable only as they are stamped, some rare difference make them exceptionally valuable. A few rare coins could be in your coin jar, ready to make you rich. Let’s not waste time and go ahead, and take a look at eight extremely valuable dimes and quarters coins you might find!
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. Only 24 were ever minted, and fewer than ten are known to exist today. Because of its extreme rarity, this dime can fetch over $1 million at auction. One theory suggests that the limited mintage was intended as gifts for influential bankers, while others believe it was a trial run before minting ceased. If you’re lucky enough to find one, you’ve just hit the numismatic jackpot!
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly sought-after coin. With only 264,000 ever produced, it’s one of the rarest dimes of the 20th century. The key detail to look for is the small “D” mint mark below the torch on the back. Many of these dimes saw circulation, making high-grade examples incredibly valuable. In top condition, this coin can be worth more than $100,000.
1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
Minted in Carson City, Nevada, the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is a rare find. Its distinctive “CC” mint mark makes it easy to identify. This dime is especially rare because most of the 1873-CC mintage was melted down after the Coinage Act of 1873 changed the weight standard. Because of its limited mintage and historical significance, this dime can be worth up to $50,000 or more, especially if it’s in good condition.
1968 & 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dimes
These two dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark, which should have indicated that they came from the San Francisco Mint. The 1968 No-S proof dime was part of a special proof set, and its absence of the mint mark was a major error. Similarly, the 1975 No-S dime, which was supposed to be found in proof sets, has only a few known examples, making it even rarer. If you find one, it could be worth up to $20,000!
1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
This is another famous error coin, as it was the first U.S. coin ever released without a mint mark by accident. Instead of the usual “P” for Philadelphia, these dimes have no mark at all. The error occurred when a mint employee mistakenly left out the mint mark on the dies. Though not as valuable as other rare dimes, well-preserved examples can sell for up to $5,000.
1955 Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Error)
A minting mistake caused some 1955 Roosevelt Dimes to have a double die error, where the design appears slightly duplicated. This error is most visible in the date, as well as in the inscriptions on the coin. Collectors love these coins because they represent a unique mistake in the minting process. Depending on their condition, they can sell for up to $2,000, with higher values for coins in mint-state condition.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was made to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. While most are worth only 25 cents, certain silver-clad versions and proof coins can be worth significantly more. These coins were struck in both copper-nickel clad and a special 40% silver composition for collectors. Look for quarters with a silver composition, as these tend to be the most valuable, with some proof versions reaching values up to $1,000 or more.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the scarcest quarters in the Washington quarter series. With only 436,800 minted, it is highly sought after by collectors. It was issued during the first year of the Washington quarter series, making it historically significant. The “D” mint mark on the reverse side indicates its Denver origin. In top condition, this quarter can sell for over $300,000, making it a truly valuable find.
Check Your Change!
If you have old dimes or quarters, take a closer look—you might be holding a fortune in your hands! Rare coins like these are highly collectible and can fetch impressive prices at auctions. Many valuable coins go unnoticed for years, hiding in coin collections, old piggy banks, or even circulation.
FAQs
1. Are these rare dimes and the Bicentennial Quarter really worth $90 million each?
Yes, some rare dimes and the Bicentennial Quarter have been valued at extremely high prices due to factors such as rarity, minting errors, and collector demand. However, actual sale prices may vary based on condition and market interest.
2. How can I identify if I have one of these valuable coins?
Check for key features such as minting errors, rare date variations, and unique markings. Professional coin grading services like PCGS or NGC can help authenticate and appraise rare coins.
3. Where can I sell a rare dime or Bicentennial Quarter if I find one?
You can sell rare coins through online marketplaces like eBay, auction houses, coin dealers, or numismatic shows. Professional appraisals are recommended before selling.
4. Why are these coins still in circulation?
Many people unknowingly spend rare coins because they look like regular change. Some valuable coins may have remained in circulation for years due to a lack of awareness.
5. What minting errors should I look for in the Bicentennial Quarter?
5. What minting errors should I look for in the Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for double die errors, missing clad layers, off-center strikes, and other anomalies that can significantly increase a coin’s value.