Dime coins have been a fundamental part of American currency for centuries, but some small, seemingly ordinary coins are worth far more than their face value. A select few dimes still in circulation today have become incredibly valuable, collectively worth $11 million. Collectors highly seek after these rare and beautiful coins for their historical significance, unique features, and rarity. This blog post explores the rarest dime coins still circulating, each contributing to an impressive total value of $11 million.
List of the Most Valuable Dime Coins Still in Circulation
| Rank | Coin Description | Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | $2 Million |
| 2 | 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | $250,000 |
| 3 | 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime (Proof) | 1975 | $450,000 |
| 4 | 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime | 1873 | $1.8 Million |
| 5 | 1796 Draped Bust Dime | 1796 | $300,000 |
| 6 | 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime | 1804 | $250,000 |
| 7 | 1822 Capped Bust Dime | 1822 | $90,000 |
| 8 | 1844 Seated Liberty Dime (“Little Orphan Annie Dime”) | 1844 | $100,000 |
| 9 | 1859-S Seated Liberty Dime | 1859 | $75,000 |
1894-S Barber Dime – $2 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of American history’s rarest and most valuable coins. Only 24 of these dimes were minted, and just nine are known to exist today. The coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint, and it is believed that the dimes were struck as gifts for wealthy bankers. The rarity and mystery surrounding the 1894-S Barber Dime have made it a highly coveted piece among collectors, with one example selling for nearly $2 million at auction.
1916-D Mercury Dime – $250,000
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most sought-after coins in the Mercury Dime series. This coin was minted in Denver, and only 264,000 were produced, making it the lowest mintage of the series. The 1916-D Mercury Dime is especially valuable in high-grade condition, with pristine examples fetching prices up to $250,000. Its rarity and the iconic design by Adolph A. Weinman make it a favorite among collectors.
1975 No S Roosevelt Dime (Proof) – $450,000
The 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime is a proof coin that was mistakenly struck without the “S” mintmark, which indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. This error is extremely rare, with only two known examples in existence. The absence of the mintmark has made this coin highly valuable, with one example selling for $450,000. It is one of the rarest modern coins in U.S. history and a prized piece for any collector.
1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime – $1.8 Million
The 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime is another precious coin, minted at the Carson City Mint. Only a few of these dimes were produced before the minting process was altered to include arrows on either side of the date, signifying a change in the coin’s weight. This version, without the arrows, is extremely rare, with only one known example, making it worth an estimated $1.8 million.
1796 Draped Bust Dime – $300,000
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime is one of the earliest dimes produced by the United States Mint. This coin is part of the first official series of dimes and is highly prized for its historical significance. The 1796 Draped Bust Dime is rare, particularly in high-grade condition, and can be worth up to $300,000. Its classic design and connection to the early days of American coinage make it a valuable piece for collectors.
1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime – $250,000
The 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime is a rare variant of the Draped Bust series. The coin features 14 stars on the reverse, which was a mistake as the official design called for only 13 stars. This error was corrected quickly, but a few 14 Star Reverse dimes were released, making them highly sought after. A well-preserved example of this coin can fetch up to $250,000, making it a valuable and unique find.
1822 Capped Bust Dime – $90,000
The 1822 Capped Bust Dime is another rare and valuable coin, with a mintage of only 100,000. Due to its age and the wear it has likely endured over the years, this coin is particularly difficult to find in high-grade condition. Collectors prize the 1822 Capped Bust Dime for its rarity and beautiful design, with top-grade examples selling for around $90,000.
1844 Seated Liberty Dime (“Little Orphan Annie Dime”) – $100,000
The 1844 Seated Liberty Dime, often called the “Little Orphan Annie Dime,” is a key date in the Seated Liberty series. This coin had a low mintage of only 72,500, and finding one in excellent condition is extremely rare. The coin’s nickname and its scarcity have made it a desirable piece among collectors, with high-grade examples valued at around $100,000.
1859-S Seated Liberty Dime – $75,000
The 1859-S Seated Liberty Dime is another rare coin from the San Francisco Mint, with a mintage of just 60,000. This coin is precious in high-grade condition, as most examples show significant wear. Collectors value the 1859-S Seated Liberty Dime for its rarity and historical significance, with top examples fetching up to $75,000.
FAQ
What makes a dime coin valuable?
The value of a dime coin is determined by factors such as rarity, minting errors, historical significance, and the coin’s condition. Coins with low mintage, unique features, or errors are typically more valuable.
How can I determine if my dime coin is valuable?
You can determine the value of your dime coin by having it graded by a professional service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). These services assess the coin’s condition and check for any rare features or errors that may increase its value.
Are all old dimes valuable?
Not all old dimes are valuable. While some older dimes can be worth more than face value, the most valuable dimes typically have rare dates, minting errors, or are in exceptional condition.
What should I do if I think I have a rare dime coin?
If you believe you have a rare dime coin, it’s advisable to have it appraised by a professional. They can help you determine its value and advise you on the best way to sell it, whether through an auction, private sale, or a coin dealer.
Why are some dimes worth $1 million or more?
Some dimes are worth $1 million or more due to their extreme rarity, unique minting errors, and historical significance. These factors make them highly desirable among collectors, driving their value to extraordinary levels.
References
- “The Most Valuable Dimes: A List of Dimes Worth Money” – PCGS CoinFacts
- “Top 10 Most Valuable Dimes” – The Spruce Crafts
- “Dime Values Guide” – NGC Coin Explorer
