To the uninitiated eye, the act of collecting dimes may appear mundane; however, to the enthusiast and collector, there is significant historical and monetary value in certain of these small coins.
This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of the five most valuable dimes known to collectors, examining their biographies, mintages, and current market values.
These coins are the genuine treasures of American coinage, regardless of whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a novice.
1. Draped Bust Dimes from 1796 and 1797
Historical Significance and Scarcity
The Draped Bust dimes from 1796 and 1797 are considered the beginning of dime minting in the United States. These coins are exceedingly uncommon due to their exceptionally low mintage (22,135 in 1796). The value of these coins commences at $2,600 for well-worn examples and increases considerably for coins in better condition. The 1797 issues command comparable prices.
2. Liberty Seated Dimes from Carson City (1870s)
The Allure of the “CC” Mintmark
The Carson City Liberty Seated dimes, which were produced between 1871 and 1874, are a collector’s fantasy. The 1873-CC is the most highly sought-after of these, with a mintage of only 12,400. This dime, which is known to have only one surviving specimen, was sold at a recent auction for an astonishing $1,840,000, underscoring its extreme rarity and value.
3. Barber Dime of 1894
A Numismatic Legend
The narrative of this dime is characterized by an accounting deficit and a resolution that necessitated striking only 24 dimes. Currently, there are only nine of these 1894-S Barber dimes that are known to exist. Each of these dimes has sold for over $1 million at auction, establishing it as one of the most prestigious collectibles in the numismatic community.
4. 1916-D Mercury Dime
A Favorite of Collectors
The 1916-D Mercury dime is one of the most renowned American coin anomalies, with a mintage of only 484,000. Even in lower grades, this dime is valued at approximately $1,000, with prices exceeding $10,000 for uncirculated specimens with complete bands, underscoring its rarity and desirability.
5. 1942/1 Mercury Dimes
A Fascinating Error
The 1942/1 and 1942/1-D overdate Mercury dimes are intriguing minting errors in which the numeral “1” is visible beneath the “2” in the date. These coins are highly sought after, with values that range from $400 in circulated grades to over $2,500 for uncirculated examples.
Further valuable dimes to monitor
Collectors should also be aware of Barber and Mercury dimes from the 19th and early 20th centuries, all pre-1965 Roosevelt dimes, and certain no-mintmark proof Roosevelt dimes, which can also garner significant sums, in addition to the top treasures highlighted in the aforementioned list.
Summary Table
| Coin | Mint Year(s) | Notable Features | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1796 and 1797 Draped Bust | 1796-1797 | First dimes ever minted | Starting at $2,600 |
| Carson City Liberty Seated | 1871-1874 | Rare “CC” mintmark | Up to $1,840,000 |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | Only 24 minted, numismatic legend | Over $1 million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Low mintage, highly sought-after | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
| 1942/1 Overdate Mercury Dimes | 1942 | Error in the date, rare overdate variety | $400 – $2,500+ |
Conclusion
The world of collecting dimes offers a fascinating glimpse into American history and minting practices. While most dimes are merely small change, the coins listed in this guide are historical artifacts worth a fortune. Understanding what makes each unique allows collectors to appreciate not just the monetary value but the rich stories behind these tiny treasures.
FAQs
1. What is the most valuable dime ever sold?
The 1894-S Barber dime holds this record, fetching over $1 million at auctions.
2. How can I start collecting valuable dimes?
Begin by visiting local coin shops, attending coin shows, and connecting with established collectors and numismatic societies.
3. What should I look for when buying a rare dime?
Focus on the coin’s grade, rarity, historical significance, and authenticity. Consulting with a professional numismatist is highly recommended.
4. Why are some dimes more valuable than others?
Factors include the coin’s age, mintage, historical context, and any unique characteristics such as minting errors or special markings.
5. Can I find any of these valuable dimes in circulation today?
While extremely unlikely, especially for the highest-valued examples, coin roll hunting can sometimes yield lesser-known rarities.
References
A Guide Book of United States Coins (The Official Red Book) – Authored by R.S. Yeoman, this book is updated annually and provides comprehensive information on coin prices, mintage statistics, and historical details.
Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) – The PCGS website offers detailed coin gradings, auction results, and a wealth of educational resources for both novice and experienced collectors.
Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) – Similar to PCGS, NGC provides coin grading services and extensive educational materials on different types of coins, including dimes.
The American Numismatic Association (ANA) – The ANA’s website and publications, such as “The Numismatist,” offer articles, guides, and news on various aspects of coin collecting.
Heritage Auctions – As one of the largest numismatic auction houses, Heritage Auctions provides a database of past sales, which can be useful for researching the value and rarity of specific dimes.
