In the world of numismatics, where history and rarity intersect, certain coins stand out not just for their age or beauty but for their astonishing value. Among these, dimes—those humble ten-cent pieces—hold some of the most valuable specimens in coin collecting.
Let’s look into the top five rare dimes, whose collective worth reaches an incredible $9.3 million.
1894-S Barber Dime
Estimated Value: $2,000,000
At the top of rare dime collecting sits the legendary 1894-S Barber Dime. This coin’s story is as captivating as its value.
In 1894, the San Francisco Mint struck only 24 of these dimes, making them an instant numismatic rarity. Today, only nine examples are known to exist, increasing their value significantly.
Why It’s Valuable
- Extremely low mintage of only 24 coins
- Fewer than 10 surviving specimens
- Historic appeal and numismatic legends surrounding its creation
One famous story suggests that the San Francisco Mint superintendent gave three of these dimes to his daughter, who spent one on ice cream. Whether true or not, these stories only add to the coin’s mystique.
Auction Record: In 2016, one specimen sold for nearly $2 million, setting a record for dimes and solidifying its status as the most valuable dime in existence.
1796 Draped Bust Dime
Estimated Value: $1,800,000
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime holds a special place in American numismatic history as the first dime ever produced by the United States Mint.
Designed by Robert Scot, this coin features a portrait of Liberty on the obverse and a small eagle on the reverse. The small eagle reverse was only used for two years, making this an especially rare early U.S. coin.
Why It’s Valuable
- First U.S. dime ever produced
- Historic small eagle design used for only two years
- Highly sought after by early American coin collectors
Auction Record: The finest known specimen, graded MS-67 by PCGS, sold for $1,322,500 in 2016. Given the increasing demand for historical rarities, experts estimate its value could exceed $1.8 million today.
1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime
Estimated Value: $2,500,000
The 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime is a one-of-a-kind numismatic unicorn.
In 1873, the U.S. Mint slightly increased the weight of dimes and added arrows next to the date to indicate the change. All previous dimes without arrows were supposed to be destroyed—except for this one surviving specimen.
Why It’s Valuable
- Only one known example exists
- Carson City (CC) Mint coins are highly desirable
- The sole survivor of a destroyed mintage
Auction Record: The only known example was last sold in 2012 for $1.84 million. Experts now value this dime at around $2.5 million, given its uniqueness and increasing demand for Carson City rarities.
1975 No S Roosevelt Dime
Estimated Value: $500,000
Proving that not all rare coins are centuries old, the 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime is a modern error with an impressive value.
This coin was part of a 1975 proof set, but it was mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark, which should indicate production at the San Francisco Mint.
Why It’s Valuable
- Only two known examples exist
- Extremely rare modern U.S. coin
- Highly sought after by collectors of minting errors
Auction Record: In 2019, one of these dimes sold for $456,000. Given the increasing demand for modern rarities, experts estimate its value at $500,000 or more today.
1822 Capped Bust Dime
Estimated Value: $2,500,000
The 1822 Capped Bust Dime is one of the most mysterious and valuable U.S. dimes ever struck.
Unlike most coins of the era, no business strike examples are known—only three proof specimens exist.
Why It’s Valuable
- Only three known specimens
- No business strikes were ever produced
- A true mystery in numismatics
Auction Record: In 2016, an 1822 Capped Bust Dime graded Proof-66 by PCGS sold for $440,625. Given the appreciation of high-end numismatic rarities, experts believe that if one were to come to market today, it could potentially reach $2.5 million or more.
Final Thoughts
These five rare dimes represent the pinnacle of numismatic collecting, with values driven by their extreme rarity, historical significance, and collector demand. Whether it’s the legendary 1894-S Barber Dime, the elusive 1822 Capped Bust Dime, or the modern 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime, these coins continue to captivate collectors worldwide.
If you suspect you have one of these rare dimes, it is essential to get it professionally authenticated and graded. With numismatic values continuing to rise, these coins are likely to remain among the most valuable and sought-after in the world.
