Do you ever glance at the coins in your pocket and wonder if they could be worth more than just a few cents? While most dimes are used for everyday transactions, some rare finds could be hiding in your loose change. These rare dimes can be worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars due to their rarity, historical significance, or minting errors.
In this article, we’ll uncover three rare and valuable dimes that could be hiding in plain sight. From the elusive 1916-D Mercury Dime to the error-stricken 1975 and 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dimes, each of these coins has a unique backstory and a hefty price tag. Keep reading to learn how to identify them and why collectors are willing to pay top dollar.
Overview
Here’s a quick guide to the three rare dimes covered in this article:
| Dime | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | Low mintage at Denver Mint | $1,000–$10,000+ |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt | Missing mintmark in proof sets | $456,000+ |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt | Missing mintmark in proof sets | $20,000+ |
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most coveted dimes in American numismatics due to its incredibly low mintage. Only 264,000 of these coins were produced at the Denver Mint, making it one of the rarest Mercury Dimes ever created.
The coin’s obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. The reverse side showcases a fasces, a bundle of rods with an axe, representing unity and strength, alongside an olive branch for peace.
How to Identify It
To confirm if you’ve found this treasure, check for the “D” mintmark on the reverse side, located just to the left of the fasces.
Even in heavily worn condition, this dime can sell for thousands of dollars. Well-preserved examples can reach values in the tens of thousands, making this coin a true prize for collectors.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Proof coins are specially made for collectors and typically include a mintmark indicating their origin. The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is an unusual exception to this rule. These coins, struck at the San Francisco Mint, were mistakenly produced without the “S” mintmark, making them one of the rarest modern dimes in history.
Why It’s So Valuable
This coin’s rarity and mystery make it incredibly valuable. In 2019, a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime sold for over $456,000, making it one of the most expensive dimes ever sold.
Where to Look
These dimes are exclusively found in 1975 proof sets, so if you own a collection of proof coins, inspect them carefully. A missing mintmark could mean you’re holding a six-figure fortune.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Like its 1975 counterpart, the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a proof coin that was mistakenly produced without the “S” mintmark. While it doesn’t command the same sky-high prices as the 1975 version, this coin is still extremely valuable and highly sought after by collectors.
How Much Is It Worth?
A well-preserved 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime can sell for up to $20,000.
Where to Find It
This dime is also found in proof sets from 1968. If you or a family member have old proof sets lying around, take a close look—you might have a valuable hidden gem.
Rare dimes like these prove that sometimes, small mistakes can lead to big rewards. Whether due to low mintage, minting errors, or historical significance, these dimes continue to captivate collectors and fetch impressive prices at auctions.
So, next time you check your spare change, take a moment to examine your dimes carefully. You never know—you might be carrying a hidden treasure worth thousands of dollars.
