You may have dimes lying unnoticed in your pockets, purses, or coin jars. But what if one of those seemingly ordinary coins was actually worth thousands—or even millions—of dollars? It’s not just old coins that fetch high prices; certain mint errors and rare strikes can turn a 10-cent piece into a life-changing treasure. Collectors are especially on the lookout for three specific dimes that are considered among the rarest in U.S. coin history. Don’t ignore your loose change—it could hide one of these fortune-makers.
1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
This is one of the rarest modern dimes ever produced. In 1968, the San Francisco Mint accidentally released a small number of Roosevelt proof dimes with no mint mark—a major error, since all proofs from San Francisco were supposed to bear an “S” mark. Only a handful of these dimes exist, and collectors are willing to pay top dollar for them. In high-grade condition, one of these coins can be worth over $45,000, depending on the grading and demand at auction.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is another jaw-dropping error coin. Like the 1968 variety, this coin was intended as a proof and should have carried the “S” mint mark from the San Francisco Mint. However, a few were struck without it. It’s so rare that only two confirmed examples have ever been found. In recent auctions, one of these coins has sold for more than $450,000, making it one of the most expensive dimes ever sold.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is a legend in the numismatic world. With only 24 coins minted and just 9 known to exist today, it’s one of the rarest coins in American history. These dimes were struck at the San Francisco Mint and distributed under mysterious circumstances. A specimen in excellent condition has sold for over $2 million. Finding one of these would be like winning the lottery for any coin enthusiast.
From modern minting mistakes to historical rarities, the humble dime has proven to be an unexpected goldmine. The next time you sort through your spare change, take a second look. That tiny 10-cent coin might just be a 1968 No-S, a 1975 No-S, or even—if lightning strikes—an 1894-S Barber Dime. These coins are out there, and some have been found in circulation or tucked away in old collections. Ignoring your change could mean ignoring a fortune.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I identify a No-S Roosevelt Dime?
Check the area just above the date on the coin’s front. If it’s a proof coin and there’s no “S” mint mark, you may have a rare variety.
2. Are these error dimes still found in circulation?
While extremely rare, some have turned up in private collections or coin jars. Most are discovered by sharp-eyed collectors or dealers.
3. How much is the 1894-S Barber Dime worth?
In excellent condition, this dime has fetched over $2 million at auction. It’s considered one of the rarest U.S. coins ever minted.
4. What should I do if I think I found one of these dimes?
Have it authenticated and graded by a reputable coin grading service like PCGS or NGC. Avoid cleaning it, as that may lower its value.
5. Where can I sell a valuable dime?
Try auction houses specializing in rare coins, trusted numismatic dealers, or major online platforms that cater to collectors.
