For serious coin collectors, discovering rare dimes is a milestone that adds immense value and prestige to their collections. Certain dimes stand out due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique features. Here, we look into seven highly sought-after dime varieties, detailing what makes each one special and why they’re highly prized in the numismatic community.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is legendary among coin collectors due to its extreme rarity. Only 24 of these dimes were minted, with just nine confirmed examples known to exist today. The story behind the creation of these coins adds to their mystique—many believe they were minted as gifts for prominent bankers or for the mint director’s daughter.
The rarity of the 1894-S Barber Dime, coupled with its fascinating backstory, has led to sky-high auction prices, often in the millions. Owning one of these dimes is a dream for collectors, making it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another cornerstone for collectors, particularly those who specialize in the Mercury Dime series. This coin marks the first year of the series and was minted in very low quantities at the Denver Mint—only 264,000 were produced. Its scarcity and striking design, featuring Liberty with a winged cap, make it highly desirable.
High-grade examples of the 1916-D Mercury Dime are incredibly rare, as the delicate features tend to wear down easily. This dime is essential for any serious collector of early 20th-century U.S. coinage and is known to fetch significant sums at auction.
1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is a major anomaly among proof coins, which are typically struck with high precision and feature a mint mark. However, this particular dime lacks the “S” mint mark, which should indicate it was minted in San Francisco.
Only a few thousand of these error coins exist, making them incredibly rare. These dimes were intended for proof sets, so their absence of the mint mark has made them a coveted item for proof set collectors. The rarity and minting error make this coin a highly valuable piece for serious numismatists.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is famous for its overdate error, where the die from 1941 wasn’t fully removed, leading to a visible “1” beneath the “2” in the date. This error occurred at both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, creating a widespread mistake that has intrigued collectors for years.
The overdate error is visible under magnification, making it a fun and unique addition to any collection. High-grade examples of the 1942/1 Mercury Dime command premium prices, especially among collectors who focus on error coins.
1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is an incredibly rare coin, with only two known specimens in existence. Like the 1968 No-S, this proof coin was intended to be part of a proof set but was mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark.
Due to its extreme rarity and the mystery surrounding its creation, this dime has become legendary among collectors. When they occasionally appear at auction, these dimes command jaw-dropping prices, reflecting their unique place in numismatic history.
1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
Minted in Carson City, Nevada, the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, largely due to its connection with the Old West. Carson City coins are highly sought after, and this dime is no exception. Most 1873-CC dimes were melted down after the Coinage Act of 1873 demonetized silver, making surviving examples incredibly rare.
There are two varieties of the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime: one with arrows at the date and one without. The “arrows” variety is particularly scarce and coveted by collectors for its historical significance and the coin’s association with the silver boom of the West.
1919-D Full Bands Mercury Dime
The 1919-D Full Bands Mercury Dime is a highly sought-after condition rarity. “Full Bands” refers to the horizontal bands on the fasces (a bundle of rods) on the reverse of the coin. Many of the Mercury Dimes produced at the Denver Mint during this period were weakly struck, meaning the bands were often not fully visible.
A Full Bands designation indicates a strong, high-quality strike where the bands are clearly separated. This condition rarity makes Full Bands examples of the 1919-D Mercury Dime significantly more valuable. Collectors actively seek out these dimes, and they command impressive premiums due to their scarcity in top condition.
| Dime | Mintage/Details | Value | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 24 minted, 9 known | Millions at auction | Extremely rare, mysterious origin |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 264,000 minted | High-grade: $40,000+ | First year of series, low mintage |
| 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | Few thousand known | Thousands to millions | Error: missing “S” mint mark |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | Overdate error | High-grade: $1,000+ | Visible “1” under “2” in date |
| 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | Only 2 known | Millions | Ultra-rare proof error |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime | Very few survive | Hundreds of thousands | Carson City mint, arrows variety rare |
| 1919-D Full Bands Mercury Dime | Weakly struck, rare FB | High-grade: $10,000+ | Full Bands condition rarity |
These dimes are not only rare but also tell a rich story of American history and coinage. Whether through minting errors, limited production, or historical significance, each one holds a special place in the world of numismatics. For collectors, acquiring any of these coins would be a major achievement, adding both value and prestige to their collection.
FAQs
Why is the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
Its extreme rarity, with only 24 minted, and its intriguing backstory make it highly valuable.
What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime sought after?
It was the first year of the series, and only 264,000 were minted at the Denver Mint.
How can I identify a 1942/1 Mercury Dime?
Look for a visible “1” beneath the “2” in the date, especially under magnification.
What is the Full Bands designation on Mercury Dimes?
It indicates that the horizontal bands on the reverse are fully separated and well-struck.
How rare is the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime?
Only two examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest dimes in numismatic history.
