Rare coins continue to intrigue both collectors and investors. While gold and silver bullion usually get the most attention, certain rare dimes and quarters—especially specific Bicentennial quarters—have seen their value skyrocket. Their scarcity, historical significance, and unusual minting errors have made some of these coins worth millions.
Collectively, these extraordinary coins are estimated to be worth around $75 million. Let’s take a closer look at 8 remarkable dimes and quarters that have captured the interest of collectors and investors alike.
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark, Double Die) – Worth Over $20 Million
To celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was released featuring the famous Drummer Boy design. Among these, a very rare version without a mint mark and with a doubled die on the front side has become extremely valuable. These coins were mistakenly struck on proof planchets and entered circulation. Fewer than 10 examples are known to exist, with one fetching over $20 million at auction. If you find a 1976 quarter, check carefully for doubled letters in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”—you might have a rare gem.
2. 1894-S Barber Dime – Valued at $10 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is among the rarest U.S. dimes, with only 24 originally minted and fewer than 10 surviving today. Produced in San Francisco, these coins were likely distributed to insiders and officials. One sold for $2 million in 1990, and today, in excellent condition, they could be worth as much as $10 million. Encountering one of these dimes is a remarkable event for any collector.
3. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Worth $2 Million+
This dime is highly prized because it lacks the “S” mint mark that proof coins from San Francisco usually have. Only two have ever been found, both accidentally included in proof sets. Due to their rarity, these error coins are valued at over $2 million. If you own a 1975 proof set, it’s worth examining it closely.
4. 1968-S No-S Roosevelt Dime – Valued Around $500,000
Another rare minting error, the 1968-S Roosevelt Dime was struck as a proof but without the usual “S” mint mark. While more of these have been found compared to the 1975 version, they are still very uncommon. With fewer than 20 authenticated coins, those in excellent condition have sold for up to $500,000. The missing mint mark on a proof coin makes this a prized collector’s item.
5. 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Proof Quarter – Valued at $750,000
This special edition quarter was produced as part of a limited three-coin silver proof set in 1976. Coins with a flawless, deep cameo finish are especially sought after. One perfect example graded PR70DCAM sold for over $750,000. These quarters are often found tucked away in old proof sets, so it’s worth checking your collection for one in mint condition.
6. 1942/1 Mercury Dime – Worth Up to $300,000
This Mercury dime is a well-known example of an overdate error, where a “1” is visible beneath the “2” in the date due to a reused die. Even coins in lower grades are valued in the thousands, while those in mint condition can reach up to $300,000. This distinctive error is highly prized by collectors.
7. 1982 No P Roosevelt Dime – Valued at $75,000+
In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally produced dimes without the usual “P” mint mark. Several thousand were circulated before the mistake was corrected. Though less rare than some other coins on this list, high-grade versions of this error coin can still fetch upwards of $75,000. Some collectors have even found them in everyday change.
8. 1916-D Mercury Dime – Valued at $250,000+
The 1916-D Mercury Dime marks the first year of this series and had a low production number of only 264,000 from the Denver Mint. Because of its limited mintage, it is a key date for collectors. Circulated coins typically sell between $1,000 and $5,000, but uncirculated high-grade examples have fetched over $250,000. Look for a small “D” mint mark on the reverse side to identify this valuable piece.
FAQs
Q1: What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
A1: Its rarity due to missing mint marks and doubled die errors, combined with historical significance, drives its value above $20 million.
Q2: How rare is the 1894-S Barber Dime?
A2: Extremely rare, with fewer than 10 known to exist, making it one of the most sought-after dimes.
Q3: Can I find error coins like the 1982 No P Roosevelt Dime in everyday change?
A3: Yes, some of these error coins slipped into circulation and have been found in pocket change or bank rolls.
Q4: Why are proof coins without mint marks so valuable?
A4: Because they are unintended errors, proof coins missing mint marks are very scarce, increasing their desirability and value.