10 Ultra-Rare Dimes and Quarters : Rare coins have long fascinated collectors and investors alike. Some dimes and quarters minted decades ago are now worth millions of dollars, often hiding in plain sight. We present a thoroughly researched, keyword-rich guide detailing 10 of the rarest U.S. dimes and quarters, their features, values, and how to identify them—perfect for enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone who wants to turn pocket change into a fortune.
🪙 1894-S Barber Dime – $1,998,800
- Mintage: Only 24
- Surviving Specimens: 9 confirmed
- Key Features: Mint mark “S,” razor-sharp Barber design, proof strike
- Top Auction Price: $1,997,500
This coin is one of the rarest dimes in existence. Legend says a mint superintendent gifted a few to friends, and one was even used to buy ice cream—now worth nearly $2 million.
🪙 1916-D Mercury Dime – Up to $40,000+
- Mintage: 264,000
- Mint Mark: “D” for Denver
- Notable: First year of issue for the Mercury design
- High-Grade Value: Over $40,000
This key-date Mercury dime is a “holy grail” for many collectors. Verify the mint mark on the reverse near the bottom-left of the torch.
🪙 1942/1 Mercury Dime – $15,000+
- Type: Overdate Error
- Details: “1” visible under “2” in the date
- Estimated Value: $2,500 – $15,000 depending on condition
Error coins like these are highly collectible and extremely valuable in uncirculated condition.
🪙 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime – $1.5 Million
- Mintage: Unknown, only one known to exist
- Location: Carson City Mint
- Rarity: Unique specimen
- Auction Price: Over $1.5 million
The only known example of this no arrows variety makes it a crown jewel in U.S. coinage.
🪙 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime – $450,000+
- Error: No mint mark
- Authentication: PCGS certification crucial
- Rarity: Less than 3 known
This modern dime error is among the most valuable 20th-century coins. Every collector dreams of finding one.
🪙 1822 Capped Bust Dime – $50,000+
- Design: Capped Bust by John Reich
- Circulation Year: 1822
- Rarity: Scarce due to low survival rate
This early American dime is highly desirable for type set collectors and historically significant.
🪙 1804 Draped Bust Dime – $100,000+
- Type: Heraldic Eagle reverse
- Mintage: 8,265
- Notable: Early federal issue
Collectors value these dimes not only for their age but for the classical American engraving style.
🪙 1932-D Washington Quarter – $20,000+
- Mintage: 436,800
- Key Identifier: “D” mint mark below the eagle
- Value Range: $150 – $20,000 depending on grade
This was the first year for the Washington quarter and Denver-minted examples are rare.
🪙 1932-S Washington Quarter – $10,000+
- Minted in San Francisco
- Scarcity in higher grades
- Auction Prices: Frequently reach five figures
Collectors seek both the D and S mint mark varieties from 1932 to complete their sets.
🪙 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter – $5,000+
- Error Type: D mint mark struck over S
- Visible With Magnification
- Estimated Value: $500 – $5,000
These overmintmark errors are among the most desirable Roosevelt-era quarter mistakes.
📊 Summary: Top 10 Rare Coins and Their Values
graph LR
A[1894-S Barber Dime] -->|$1.9M+| Z[Ultra Rare]
B[1873-CC No Arrows Dime] -->|$1.5M+| Z
C[1975 No S Dime] -->|$450K+| Z
D[1916-D Mercury Dime] -->|$40K+| Z
E[1942/1 Mercury Dime] -->|$15K+| Z
F[1804 Draped Bust Dime] -->|$100K+| Z
G[1822 Capped Bust Dime] -->|$50K+| Z
H[1932-D Quarter] -->|$20K+| Z
I[1932-S Quarter] -->|$10K+| Z
J[1950-D/S Quarter] -->|$5K+| Z
🔍 How to Check for Rare Dimes and Quarters
Look for Key Mint Marks
- D – Denver
- S – San Francisco
- No mint mark – Philadelphia
Check below the torch on dimes or below the eagle on quarters.
Inspect Dates and Errors
Use a 10x loupe to find:
- Overdates (e.g., 1942/1)
- Doubled dies
- No mint marks where there should be one
- Off-center strikes
- Overmintmarks (e.g., D/S)
Coin Grading Matters
| Grade | Condition | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | Heavily worn | Low value |
| F-12 | Moderate wear | Mid-range |
| EF-40 | Sharp features | High value |
| MS-65 | Uncirculated | Premium |
Use PCGS or NGC services for accurate grading.
💼 Where to Find Rare Coins
- In circulation: Check your pocket change
- Coin rolls: Ask for bank rolls of quarters/dimes
- Estate sales: Unsearched collections may contain rarities
- Online auctions: Heritage Auctions, eBay (with caution)
- Coin shows: Meet reputable dealers and verify in person
⚠️ Beware of Fakes and Reproductions
Due to the value of rare dimes and quarters, counterfeits are rampant. To protect yourself:
- Weigh the coin (e.g., 2.5g for dimes)
- Check metal composition (use a magnet test)
- Examine lettering and detail sharpness
- Authenticate through certified services
🧠 Tips for Coin Collectors
- Never clean your coins
- Store in acid-free holders and temperature-controlled environment
- Join a coin club or registry
- Maintain a digital inventory
- Always research before selling or buying
🧾 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, these 10 rare dimes and quarters are potential goldmines hiding in everyday circulation. With a combined value that could exceed $75 million, checking your spare change may be the smartest financial move you make today.
Start hunting. One coin could change your life.