Certain coins are worth a lot more than what’s printed on them, making everyday change a chance to find something special. Rare dimes and coins from America’s 200th birthday (Bicentennial) are especially exciting because of their history and high value.
If you find one of these in your pocket or collection, you could have something worth a lot of money. Here are ten coins that collectors love and pay big bucks for.
Table of Contents
1894-S Barber Dime
This dime from 1894 is super famous and hard to find. Only 24 were made, and just nine are left today, making it a treasure for coin hunters.
- Worth: Over $2 million
- How Rare: Very rare, only 9 exist
- Big Sale: One went for $1,997,500 in 2016
They say the boss at the San Francisco Mint made these as gifts for his banker pals. He gave three to his daughter and told her to keep them because they’d be valuable one day. He was spot on!
1916-D Mercury Dime
This dime from 1916, made in Denver, is another tough one to find. Not many were made, so it’s a big deal for collectors.
- Worth: $200,000 or more (depends on how nice it looks)
- How Many Made: Just 264,000
- Special Note: The only Mercury dime from Denver that year
Since most were used a lot, finding one that looks brand new is super hard. That’s why the best ones sell for huge prices.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
This modern dime is rare because it’s missing the “S” that shows it was made in San Francisco. Only two are known, making it a legend among coin fans.
- Worth: Up to $456,000
- How Rare: Just 2 exist
- Big Sale: One sold for $456,000 in 2019
With so few around, it’s one of the rarest dimes from recent times.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
Sometimes coins get messed up when they’re made, and this one has a “1” from 1941 showing under the “2” for 1942. Collectors love these mistakes.
- Worth: $500 to over $10,000 (depends on condition)
- How Rare: Not super rare, but still special
- Special Note: You can see the “1” under the “2”
The nicer it looks, the more money it can bring at auctions.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Another modern dime missing its “S” mark, this one’s a rare find too. Even though it’s newer, collectors want it because so few exist.
- Worth: $10,000 to $20,000
- How Rare: Only 12-15 are known
- Special Note: No “S” where it should be
It’s a top pick for people who like rare newer coins.
1976-S Silver Quarter
Most 1976 quarters aren’t worth much, but this silver one is different. Made with 40% silver, it’s a favorite for collectors.
- Worth: Up to $19,200
- What’s in It: 40% silver
- Big Sale: A perfect one sold for $19,200 in 2019
If it’s in great shape, it’s worth way more, so check yours carefully.
1976 Double Die Quarter
This Bicentennial quarter has a mistake where the design was pressed twice, making parts look doubled. Collectors enjoy finding these.
- Worth: $100 to over $1,000
- How Rare: Not super common, but no exact count
- Special Note: Doubling on the front letters
The clearer the doubling, the more collectors will pay.
1976 No-S Kennedy Half Dollar
This Bicentennial half dollar is missing its “S” mark too. It’s a big error that makes it very rare and valuable.
- Worth: $10,000 to $20,000
- How Rare: Only a few exist
- Special Note: No “S” on a silver proof coin
It’s a huge find for fans of 1976 coins.
1976 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar
The 1976 Eisenhower dollar comes in two types, and Type 2 has bolder letters on the back. It’s not the rarest, but still worth something.
- Worth: $50 to over $1,000 (if uncirculated)
- How Rare: Less common than Type 1
- Special Note: Sharper letters on the back
People like the cleaner look of this version.
1976-D Quarter on Dime Planchet
This weird Bicentennial quarter was accidentally made on a dime-sized piece of metal. It’s tiny and super rare.
- Worth: $5,000 to over $10,000
- How Rare: Very rare
- Special Note: Smaller than a normal quarter
Spotting one of these is like winning a coin-collecting prize!
Some coins are way more valuable than they seem, and these dimes and 1976 coins show why. Whether it’s a mistake, a tiny batch, or a cool piece of history, they get collectors excited and sell for big money. If you find one, you might be holding a little treasure.
FAQS
What’s the rarest U.S. dime?
The 1894-S Barber Dime, with only 9 left.
How much is a 1976-S silver quarter worth?
Up to $19,200 if perfect.
What makes a 1976 quarter valuable?
Mistakes, silver, or being in great shape.
Why is the 1975 No-S dime so rare?
Only two were made by mistake.
What’s a 1942/1 Mercury Dime worth?
$500 to over $10,000, depending on how it looks.
