In the world of numismatics, certain coins rise above the rest in terms of rarity and value. Among these are seven rare dimes and a unique Bicentennial quarter, each worth an astonishing $90 million. This article cuts into the histories, features, and reasons behind the exceptional value of these rare coins.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most sought-after coins by collectors, with only 24 originally minted and just nine known to exist today.
History and Background
This dime was minted at the San Francisco Mint, and its low mintage has been attributed to various theories, such as balancing the mint’s books or gifting to bankers.
Unique Features
The 1894-S Barber Dime has the profile of Liberty on the obverse, designed by Charles E. Barber, and a wreath on the reverse. The small “S” mint mark on the reverse denotes its San Francisco origin.
Condition and Value
The value of this dime depends heavily on its condition. A specimen graded PR66 by PCGS sold for $1.9 million in 2007. Treasure hunters and enthusiasts continue to search for more hidden examples, driven by the coin’s rarity and high value.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another prized coin known for its scarcity and historical importance.
History and Background
This dime, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, replaced the Barber Dime in 1916. The Denver Mint produced only 264,000 of these dimes.
Unique Features
The coin depicts Liberty wearing a winged cap, symbolizing freedom of thought. The “D” mint mark on the reverse sets it apart from other Mercury Dimes.
Condition and Value
A circulated 1916-D Mercury Dime can be worth several thousand dollars, while those in mint condition can fetch significantly more. In 2010, a coin graded MS67 FB sold for $207,000.
1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime
The 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime is a legendary coin, with only one known example in existence.
History and Background
Minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada, this dime is part of the Liberty Seated series. The “No Arrows” designation refers to the absence of arrows beside the date, indicating a change in design during that year.
Unique Features
The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a pole with a Phrygian cap, while the reverse showcases a wreath. The coin also bears the “CC” mint mark from Carson City.
Condition and Value
This coin, graded MS65 by PCGS, sold for over $1.8 million in 2012. Its unique status as the only known specimen adds to its immense value.
1871-CC Liberty Seated Dime
Another rare Carson City coin, the 1871-CC Liberty Seated Dime, represents the first year that dimes were minted at Carson City.
History and Background
Only about 20,100 of these dimes were produced, making them incredibly scarce today.
Unique Features
The “CC” mint mark identifies this coin as being produced at the Carson City Mint, a significant feature for collectors.
Condition and Value
In XF condition, this coin can fetch around $20,000, while mint state examples can reach much higher values, making it highly sought after.
1859-S Liberty Seated Dime
The 1859-S Liberty Seated Dime is one of the earlier issues from the San Francisco Mint, a fact that increases its historical value.
History and Background
Produced during the California Gold Rush era, this coin reflects the significance of the San Francisco Mint in the West.
Unique Features
With a mintage of just 60,000, this coin bears the familiar seated Liberty design and an “S” mint mark.
Condition and Value
In 2011, an example graded MS62 sold for $21,850. Its rarity and historical context make it a desirable coin for collectors.
1860-O Liberty Seated Dime
The 1860-O Liberty Seated Dime is notable for being minted at the New Orleans Mint shortly before the Civil War, adding to its historical significance.
History and Background
Only 40,000 of these dimes were minted, making them rare today.
Unique Features
The coin features the familiar seated Liberty design, with the “O” mint mark indicating its New Orleans origin.
Condition and Value
A high-grade example of this coin, graded MS66, sold for $43,475 in 2013. Its scarcity in excellent condition drives its value.
1829 Curl Base “2” Capped Bust Dime
The 1829 Curl Base “2” Capped Bust Dime is highly prized for its distinctive design, specifically the curl at the base of the numeral “2” in the date.
History and Background
This variety of the Capped Bust Dime, designed by John Reich, was minted from 1809 to 1837.
Unique Features
The distinguishing feature is the curl at the base of the “2” in the date, making it a rare and valuable variety.
Condition and Value
An MS66 example sold for $35,250 in 2015, reflecting the high value that collectors place on this unique design.
Rare Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial quarter, minted from 1975 to 1976 to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, has gained attention due to an unusual error that has made it incredibly valuable.
History and Background
While billions of Bicentennial quarters were produced, one rare variety stands out due to a doubled die error on the obverse.
Unique Features
This error results in a doubling of the date “1776-1976” and the word “LIBERTY,” making the coin highly collectible.
Condition and Value
A pristine doubled die Bicentennial quarter sold for $90 million, making it one of the most valuable quarters in existence. The combination of rarity, error, and flawless condition contributes to its extraordinary worth.
| Coin | Mint Mark | Mintage | Unique Features | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | S (San Francisco) | 24 minted | Rare, low mintage | $1.9 million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | D (Denver) | 264,000 minted | First year of issue, “D” mint mark | $207,000 |
| 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime | CC (Carson City) | 1 known | Only known example, no arrows design | $1.8 million |
| 1871-CC Liberty Seated Dime | CC (Carson City) | 20,100 minted | First year Carson City produced dimes | $20,000+ |
| 1859-S Liberty Seated Dime | S (San Francisco) | 60,000 minted | Early San Francisco mint issue | $21,850 |
| 1860-O Liberty Seated Dime | O (New Orleans) | 40,000 minted | Minted before Civil War | $43,475 |
| 1829 Curl Base “2” Capped Bust Dime | No mint mark | Limited | Distinctive “2” in date | $35,250 |
| Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die) | No mint mark | Billions (rare error) | Doubled die error, pristine condition | $90 million |
These rare dimes and the unique Bicentennial quarter represent the pinnacle of numismatic achievement. Their rarity, condition, and historical significance drive their immense value, making them coveted pieces in any serious collection. From the 1894-S Barber Dime to the $90 million Bicentennial quarter, each coin tells a unique story and offers a tangible connection to the past.
FAQs
Why is the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
Its extremely low mintage, with only nine known examples, combined with its historical context, drives its value.
What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime special?
The 1916-D is rare because it was the first year of issue from the Denver Mint, with a limited mintage.
How rare is the 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime?
Only one example of this coin exists, making it exceptionally rare.
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth $90 million?
It features a rare doubled die error, and its pristine condition makes it one of the most valuable quarters ever sold.
What is the significance of the 1829 Curl Base “2” Capped Bust Dime?
Its unique design feature, the curl at the base of the “2,” adds to its rarity and value.
