Collectors know that some coins hold value far beyond their face amount. Among the most fascinating are dimes and a quarter that have fetched staggering prices at auction. Here’s a look at five rare dimes and one unique quarter that are worth millions.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest and most coveted coins in American history. Only 24 of these dimes were originally minted, and experts believe that just nine remain in existence today. This coin features Liberty adorned with a wreath of laurel leaves on the obverse and the Roman numeral “X” on the reverse.
- Auction Highlight: In 2016, an 1894-S Barber Dime sold for $1.9 million, solidifying its status among the world’s most valuable coins.
- Rarity: With its limited mintage and dwindling numbers, owning this coin is a rare privilege.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another treasured find. Minted in Denver, only 264,000 of these dimes were produced. The coin depicts Liberty with a winged cap on the obverse, symbolizing freedom of thought, and a Roman fasces on the reverse.
- Recent Sale: In 2019, a 1916-D Mercury Dime sold for $1.3 million at auction.
- Collector Appeal: Its limited mintage makes this dime highly sought after and a prime example of 20th-century American coinage.
1895-O Barber Dime
The 1895-O Barber Dime, minted in New Orleans, is another rarity that commands high prices. With only 440,000 minted, it’s a sought-after piece among collectors. It features Liberty with a cap on the front and an olive branch on the back.
- Notable Sale: In 2013, an 1895-O Barber Dime was sold for $1.3 million, emphasizing its status as a valuable collectible.
- Desirability: The limited mintage and rich history make this dime highly desirable.
1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime is a scarce coin from the Carson City Mint. With only 12,400 minted, it’s an extremely rare find. This dime features Liberty seated on a rock on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse.
- Record Auction: In 2014, one of these dimes sold for $1.8 million, confirming its place as one of the most valuable dimes.
- Historical Significance: Its minting during the era of the Wild West adds to its collectible appeal.
Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial quarter, minted in 1976 to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, holds a special place in U.S. coinage. The design features a drummer boy and a colonial scene. While millions were minted, a specific version with a rare minting error has brought attention from collectors.
- Extraordinary Value: One such error version is valued at $22 million.
- Collector’s Dream: Spotting this rare variety among circulated quarters is a once-in-a-lifetime find.
These coins prove that even dimes and quarters, often taken for granted, can possess tremendous historical and monetary value. Finding one of these in your possession could be the discovery of a lifetime.
FAQs
How many 1894-S Barber Dimes still exist?
Only nine are believed to remain today.
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime valuable?
It has a limited mintage of just 264,000.
What is special about the 1873-CC No Arrows Dime?
Only 12,400 were minted, making it extremely rare.
What makes the Bicentennial quarter valuable?
A unique error version of it is worth up to $22 million.
How much did the 1895-O Barber Dime sell for?
It sold for $1.3 million at auction in 2013.