Most people overlook dimes as spare change, slipping them into jars, pockets, or drawers without a second thought. But some dimes are worth a small fortune — even millions of dollars. Yes, that tiny ten-cent coin in your wallet could be your ticket to a life-changing payday.
Thanks to historical anomalies, low mintages, and rare minting errors, a handful of U.S. dimes have become some of the most valuable coins in circulation. Here’s a closer look at the five rarest and most expensive dimes ever produced — and how to spot one in your own change.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – Valued at Over $2 Million
This is the crown jewel of rare dimes. Only 24 were ever minted at the San Francisco Mint, and just 9 are known to still exist today. It’s one of the most sought-after coins in the world of numismatics.
Why It’s So Valuable
The exact reason why so few were produced remains a mystery. One theory suggests the Mint superintendent had them struck for banker friends and his daughter — who notoriously spent one on ice cream. Today, that coin would be worth over $1 million.
Current Value
- One example sold for $1.99 million in 2016.
- Even heavily circulated versions are worth more than $1 million.
How to Identify
Look for the 1894 date and a small “S” mint mark beneath the wreath on the reverse side. If you find one, don’t spend it — get it authenticated immediately.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime – Worth Up to $200,000
The Mercury Dime made its debut in 1916, but the Denver Mint produced only 264,000 — the lowest mintage in the entire Mercury dime series.
Why It’s So Rare
Most were released into circulation quickly and worn down, making well-preserved examples extremely rare and valuable.
Current Value
- Worn coins: $1,000–$5,000
- Uncirculated coins: Over $200,000
What to Look For
Check the reverse for a “D” mint mark to the left of “ONE.” Combine that with the 1916 date and Winged Liberty Head on the front — you might have a winner.
3. 1942/1 Mercury Dime – Overdate Error Worth Up to $35,000
Minting errors make collectors excited — and the 1942 over 1941 Mercury Dime is one of the most famous examples. It was created when the Mint accidentally engraved a “2” over a previously struck “1” in the date.
Why It’s Special
The mistake was caught only after thousands were already minted and circulated, making surviving specimens quite valuable today.
Current Value
- Circulated examples: $500–$2,000
- Uncirculated examples: Up to $35,000
How to Identify
Use a magnifying glass to spot the faint “1” beneath the “2” in the date on the obverse. Both Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D”) versions exist, with the Denver version being more scarce.
4. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime – Over $1 Million Value
This dime is a legendary rarity from the Carson City Mint, produced in a transitional year when the weight of dimes changed.
Why It’s Extremely Rare
The Mint added arrows on new dimes to signify the weight change, but a tiny number were minted without arrows before the change took effect. Almost all were melted down. Only one known example survives today.
Value at Auction
- The only known coin sold for $1.84 million in 2012.
How to Spot It
It should be dated 1873, have the “CC” mint mark, and lack arrows next to the date. If another one ever surfaces, it could easily break records at auction.
5. 1822 Capped Bust Dime – Valued at Over $300,000
This early dime is one of the rarest from the Capped Bust series, which ran from 1809 to 1837. Only around 100,000 were minted, and very few have survived in good condition.
Why It’s Valuable
It represents the early days of U.S. coin production, and its age, design, and scarcity make it a top target for collectors.
Current Value
- Circulated coins: $10,000–$50,000
- High-grade specimens: Over $300,000
What to Look For
The obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a cap inscribed with “LIBERTY.” The date should read 1822. Flip it over to find a small eagle holding a shield — a sign you might be holding a gem.
How to Tell if Your Dime Is Valuable
Quick Checklist
- Check the Date: Dimes minted before 1965 are worth inspecting more closely.
- Look for Mint Marks: Letters like “D,” “S,” or “CC” can drastically change a coin’s value.
- Inspect the Condition: The closer to mint state, the higher the value.
- Watch for Errors: Overdates, double dies, and off-center strikes are collector favorites.
Tips for Coin Collecting Beginners
- Handle Carefully: Hold coins by the edges to avoid fingerprints or scratches.
- Don’t Clean Them: Cleaning can damage the surface and destroy value.
- Use a Magnifier: Small mint marks and errors require close inspection.
- Get it Graded: Contact PCGS or NGC for professional evaluation and authentication.
- Learn from Experts: Read coin guides like the “Red Book” and attend local coin shows or clubs.
Final Thoughts
While dimes are often forgotten in coin jars or dropped between couch cushions, some are worth life-changing sums. From rare minting errors to historic issues with limited runs, these five dimes are proof that big money can come in very small packages.
Next time you get change, take a closer look at that ten-cent coin. You might just be holding onto a piece of American history — or a fortune in disguise.