Rare coins always capture the attention of collectors, and among the most prized are rare dimes. These coins carry unique stories, historical significance, and high value, making them highly sought after. Here, we explore six of the most coveted rare dimes ever made by the United States Mint.
Draped Bust Dime (1804)
The 1804 Draped Bust Dime is one of the oldest and rarest dimes in the U.S. With its classic Liberty portrait, this coin is celebrated for its elegant design and very low mintage. Only a small number were minted, so finding one today is a rare event. The 1804 Draped Bust Dime’s scarcity and beauty make it highly valuable, especially when in good condition.
Liberty Seated Dime (1873-CC)
The 1873-CC Liberty Seated Dime is a collector’s favorite due to its connection to the Carson City Mint, which operated for a short time. Known for its “closed 3” design, this coin was minted in limited numbers, and even fewer survive today. Owning an 1873-CC Liberty Seated Dime is a significant achievement for any coin collector.
Barber Dime (1894-S)
The 1894-S Barber Dime, minted in San Francisco, is among the rarest U.S. coins. Only 24 were originally minted due to an end-of-year decision, and only 9-12 are known to exist today. This makes it incredibly valuable and prized among serious collectors.
Table of Rare Dimes and Values
| Coin Name | Year Minted | Mint Location | Special Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draped Bust Dime | 1804 | Philadelphia | Early U.S. dime design | $150,000+ |
| Liberty Seated Dime | 1873-CC | Carson City | Limited mintage | $300,000+ |
| Barber Dime | 1894-S | San Francisco | Only 24 minted | $1.9 million |
| Mercury Dime | 1916-D | Denver | First of the series | $45,000+ |
| Roosevelt Dime | 1949-S/S | San Francisco | Double mint mark | $12,000+ |
| Proof Roosevelt Dime | 1975-No-S | San Francisco | Missing mint mark | $450,000+ |
Mercury Dime (1916-D)
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most valuable dimes in the Mercury series due to its limited production of 264,000 coins. With its distinctive Winged Liberty Head, often confused with the Roman god Mercury, this dime is admired for its unique design and rarity.
Roosevelt Dime (1949-S/S)
The 1949-S/S Roosevelt Dime is a modern collectible with an unusual double-stamped “S” mint mark, an error that makes it highly valuable. Though it’s a newer rare coin, this 1949 dime is beloved by error coin collectors and is hard to find in excellent condition, adding to its worth.
Proof Roosevelt Dime (1975-No-S)
The 1975-No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is a standout from recent times. Mistakenly minted without the “S” mint mark, this dime is one of only two proof coins without this mark, making it a collector’s dream. The unusual error has made this modern dime highly popular in the numismatic market.
Conclusion
Each rare dime has its own story, making it a special piece of history. These coins, whether from the 1800s or more recent times, are among the most sought-after treasures in U.S. coin collecting. Their unique features and scarcity add immense value and fascination for coin collectors everywhere.
FAQ’s
Why are some dimes so rare?
Some dimes are rare due to low production numbers, minting errors, or limited survival rates, making them highly valuable.
What makes the 1894-S Barber Dime special?
The 1894-S Barber Dime is rare because only 24 were made, and today only about 9-12 are known to exist, making it extremely valuable.
Can newer coins like the 1975-No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime be valuable?
Yes, newer coins with unique errors, like the missing mint mark on the 1975-No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, can be highly collectible and valuable.