Rare coins have long captivated the interest of collectors and investors alike. While gold bars and silver rounds often grab the headlines, select dimes and quarters—particularly certain Bicentennial quarters—have surged in value due to their rarity, historical significance, and unusual minting errors.
Some of these small coins have reached values in the tens of millions, turning ordinary change into extraordinary fortune. Here’s a look at 8 exceptional dimes and quarters, collectively valued at approximately $75 million.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark, Double Die) – Worth Over $20 Million
Struck in celebration of America’s 200th birthday, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is well known for its unique Drummer Boy reverse. Yet, an extremely rare variant exists—missing a mintmark and featuring a doubled die on the obverse—which has fetched prices north of $20 million.
These rare coins were mistakenly struck on proof planchets and made their way into general circulation. Fewer than 10 have ever been confirmed. If you happen to find a 1976 quarter, inspect “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” for signs of doubling—your discovery could be monumental.
1894-S Barber Dime – Valued at $10 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is regarded as one of the rarest dimes ever minted in the U.S., with only 24 originally produced and fewer than 10 known to remain. Created at the San Francisco Mint, these coins were reportedly gifted to select individuals and never intended for wide circulation.
A specimen sold in 1990 for $2 million, and its current value in pristine condition is believed to be around $10 million. Spotting or owning this dime is considered a milestone for any serious collector.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Worth $2 Million+
This error coin gained legendary status thanks to the absence of the “S” mintmark, typically seen on proof coins from San Francisco. So far, only two authentic examples have been discovered.
These rare dimes were accidentally included in proof sets, making them incredibly difficult to come by. Today, each one is estimated to be worth over $2 million. If you own a 1975 proof set, take a closer look—you might be in possession of a coin collector’s dream.
1968-S No-S Roosevelt Dime – Valued Around $500,000
Another fascinating error coin, the 1968-S Roosevelt Dime was meant to include the San Francisco “S” mintmark but was released without it. Though more examples have surfaced compared to the 1975 version, the coin remains exceptionally rare.
Currently, fewer than 20 confirmed pieces exist. In pristine proof condition, these coins can be worth up to $500,000. Their combination of historical mint error and high-grade condition makes them a standout in numismatic circles.
1976-S Bicentennial Silver Proof Quarter – Valued at $750,000
This special edition of the 1976 quarter was minted in a silver-clad proof format as part of a limited-edition three-coin collector set. Flawless examples with a deep cameo finish have become highly desirable among collectors.
One such quarter, graded PR70DCAM, sold for over $750,000. These coins are often hidden away in old proof sets, making it worth the effort to dig them out and check for perfection.
1942/1 Mercury Dime – Worth Up to $300,000
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is a well-known overdate error coin, showing a distinct “1” beneath the “2” in the year. This occurred when a die originally engraved for 1941 was repurposed incorrectly to strike 1942 dimes.
Even in lower conditions, these coins fetch thousands, but mint-state versions have reached up to $300,000 in value. This popular error coin remains a high-priority target for collectors of classic U.S. dimes.
1982 No P Roosevelt Dime – Valued at $75,000+
In 1982, a mishap at the Philadelphia Mint caused a small batch of dimes to be released without the standard “P” mintmark. Thousands were distributed before the error was noticed and corrected.
Although not as rare as some others on this list, these dimes are still incredibly valuable, particularly in mint-state condition. Some collectors have even discovered them in pocket change or rolled coins, with values surpassing $75,000.
1916-D Mercury Dime – Valued at $250,000+
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a key date in the Mercury dime series, with only 264,000 struck by the Denver Mint in its debut year. Its low mintage and historical significance have made it a prized piece among collectors.
Worn examples can fetch between $1,000 and $5,000, while those in pristine condition have commanded more than $250,000 at auction. Look for the tiny “D” on the reverse to identify this historic and valuable coin.
FAQs
Q1: How do I identify a rare dime or quarter?
Start by checking the year, mintmark, and physical condition. Look closely for errors such as doubled letters, missing mintmarks, or overdate signs. Coin guides and professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can offer further insights.
Q2: Are circulated Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
Generally, circulated versions have minimal value unless they are error coins or part of a rare variant, such as silver proofs or those with a doubled die.
Q3: Can I sell rare coins online?
Yes, you can list rare coins on platforms like eBay (especially for graded coins), Heritage Auctions, or Stack’s Bowers. Always ensure you research the buyer and consider having your coin authenticated and graded first.
Q4: Should I clean my coins before selling?
No. Cleaning can damage the surface and reduce a coin’s value. Collectors prefer untouched, original surfaces—even if the coin appears aged or tarnished.
Conclusion
The world of coin collecting continues to offer incredible surprises, sometimes hiding in plain sight within everyday change. From iconic dimes to celebrated Bicentennial quarters, these eight coins represent the pinnacle of rarity and value—together totaling nearly $75 million. Whether you’re an avid collector or someone casually checking their coin jar, one thing’s certain: a life-changing treasure might be waiting right in your hands.
Sheila M. Fenster is a finance writer with a strong focus on personal finance, investing, and economic trends. Known for her clear and engaging style, she breaks down complex financial topics to help readers build confidence in managing their money. Her work combines in-depth research with practical advice, making finance accessible to all.