Dimes are an exciting part of coin collecting, especially when certain rare ones can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars! Some dimes have unique minting errors, historical significance, or just low production numbers, which make them highly valuable today. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, it’s always worth taking a second look at your dimes. Here’s a guide to 10 rare dimes you should know about, along with 4 others that could be worth over $87,777!
The Rare Dimes That Are Worth a Fortune
1. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime
One of the rarest coins from the Carson City Mint, the 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime has an incredible value. The absence of arrows around the date makes it especially unique. With only a few of these dimes known to exist, it’s considered a prized possession among collectors.
2. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is legendary in the world of numismatics. Only 24 were minted, and just 9 are known to still exist today. Because of its scarcity, the 1894-S Barber Dime can fetch an extraordinary price at auction.
3. 1916-D Mercury Dime
Minted in Denver, the 1916-D Mercury Dime is considered rare due to its limited production of just 264,000 coins. Its high value increases if it’s in great condition, making it highly sought after by collectors.
4. 1871-CC Liberty Seated Dime
The 1871-CC Liberty Seated Dime is another early coin from the Carson City Mint. This is the first dime ever produced there, making it a significant piece of U.S. history. Coins in top condition are highly valued by collectors.
5. 1796 Draped Bust Dime
Produced in 1796, the Draped Bust Dime is one of the earliest U.S. coins, featuring intricate details. With its low mintage, this coin has become a key piece for collectors focused on the early days of U.S. coinage.
6. 1804 Draped Bust Dime
Like the 1796 Draped Bust, the 1804 Draped Bust Dime is another rare early minting. Its historical value, combined with a small mintage, makes it a highly desirable find for collectors.
7. 1859-S Liberty Seated Dime
The 1859-S Liberty Seated Dime was the first dime minted in San Francisco. Its historical importance, along with its limited production, makes it a valuable coin for collectors interested in mint history.
8. 1829 Curl Base 2 Capped Bust Dime
This rare coin features a “curl base 2” in the date, which is an error variant. Because of its unusual design, the 1829 Curl Base 2 Capped Bust Dime is highly valued by collectors who focus on error coins.
9. 1872-CC Liberty Seated Dime
Another rare coin from Carson City, the 1872-CC Liberty Seated Dime is sought after due to its limited number of coins produced. It’s a must-have for collectors who focus on coins from the Carson City Mint.
10. 1846 Liberty Seated Dime
The 1846 Liberty Seated Dime is valuable because of its low mintage. It’s a rare find, and due to its scarcity, collectors are willing to pay a premium for this piece of history.
Rare Dimes Table
| Coin Name | Year Minted | Mint Mark | Rarity Level | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1873-CC No Arrows | 1873 | CC | Extremely Rare | $1,000,000+ |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | S | Legendary | $1,300,000+ |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | D | High | $250,000+ |
| 1871-CC Liberty Seated Dime | 1871 | CC | Very High | $100,000+ |
| 1796 Draped Bust Dime | 1796 | – | Significant | $200,000+ |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dime | 1804 | – | Notable | $100,000+ |
| 1859-S Liberty Seated Dime | 1859 | S | Important | $50,000+ |
| 1829 Curl Base 2 Capped Dime | 1829 | – | Error Variant | $20,000+ |
| 1872-CC Liberty Seated Dime | 1872 | CC | Very High | $80,000+ |
| 1846 Liberty Seated Dime | 1846 | – | Low Mintage | $40,000+ |
Valuable Dimes: What Makes Them Special
These rare dimes stand out for different reasons. Some are valuable because of their limited production, others because of unique minting errors. Dimes like the 1873-CC No Arrows and the 1894-S Barber are worth huge sums because of how few exist. Collectors prize these coins not only for their monetary value but also for the historical story they tell about the U.S. Mint. For many collectors, owning one of these dimes is the ultimate treasure.
Even if you don’t own one of these rare dimes, just knowing about them can spark interest in coin collecting. Whether you’re casually checking your change or hunting for specific rare coins, there’s always a chance you might stumble upon a hidden gem worth far more than face value!
FAQ’s
What makes a dime rare and valuable?
A dime can be considered rare and valuable due to factors like limited production, minting errors, or historical significance. Coins with unique designs, low mintage, or mistakes made during production can greatly increase their value.
How do I know if my dime is valuable?
To determine if your dime is valuable, check for rare mint marks, limited production years, or errors like doubling or misprints. You can also research its estimated value through online resources or consult with a coin expert.
Which dimes are the most valuable?
Some of the most valuable dimes include the 1894-S Barber Dime, worth over $1,300,000, and the 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime, which can fetch over $1,000,000. These rare coins are highly sought after by collectors due to their scarcity and unique features.