Most dimes are only worth ten cents, but some rare ones have sold for millions. These valuable dimes stand out due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical significance.
If you’re a coin collector or just curious about hidden treasures, knowing which dimes are worth big money can help you spot a valuable find.
Here’s a closer look at the top ten most valuable dimes and what makes them so special.
1796 Draped Bust Dime
Why It’s Valuable
- The first dime ever minted in the U.S., making it historically significant.
- Only 22,135 were produced, and very few still exist today.
- Even in low-grade condition, it can sell for around $2,600. High-quality versions are worth much more.
1797 Draped Bust Dime
Why It’s Valuable
- Struck in smaller numbers than the 1796 version, making it rarer.
- A well-preserved coin can sell for over $2,500, with top-condition examples bringing even higher prices.
Carson City Seated Liberty Dimes (1871-1874)
Why They’re Valuable
- These dimes have the “CC” mintmark, showing they were made at the Carson City Mint in Nevada.
- Coins from 1871 to 1874 are rare, but the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is the most valuable.
- 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime Value: $1,840,000 in top condition. Only one specimen is known to exist today.
1894-S Barber Dime
Value: Up to $2 million
Why It’s Valuable
- Only 24 of these dimes were ever minted, and just nine are known to exist today.
- A famous story claims that the San Francisco Mint superintendent gave three to his daughter, who spent one on ice cream. The other two are now worth a fortune.
1916-D Mercury Dime
Value: Up to $10,000 (uncirculated condition)
Why It’s Valuable
- Only 484,000 were made, making it one of the rarest Mercury dimes.
- Even in lower grades, it can sell for around $1,000. Pristine examples fetch over $5,500.
1942/1 and 1942/1-D Overdate Mercury Dimes
Value: $400–$2,500+
Why They’re Valuable
- These dimes were struck with a minting error where the number “1” from 1941 appears under the “2” in 1942.
- Rare uncirculated versions can sell for more than $2,500.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Value: Up to $456,000
Why It’s Valuable
- Only two examples of this proof coin are known to exist.
- It was mistakenly made without the “S” mintmark and was found in 1975 proof sets.
- Because of its extreme rarity, collectors are willing to pay huge amounts for it.
1982 No-Mintmark Roosevelt Dime
Value: $100–$500+
Why It’s Valuable
- A mistake caused some 1982 dimes to be made without a mintmark, which was supposed to be a “P” for Philadelphia.
- Many of these coins were distributed in Ohio, possibly used as change at Cedar Point amusement park.
- Uncirculated versions are especially valuable.
Other Collectible Dimes
Pre-1965 Silver Dimes
- Dimes made before 1965 contain 90% silver, making them worth more than their face value.
- At a silver price of $25 per ounce, a single dime is worth about $1.81, even in worn condition.
1996-W Roosevelt Dime
- This was the only Roosevelt dime ever struck at the West Point Mint.
- It was part of a special uncirculated coin set and is highly sought after by collectors.
Why Are Some Dimes Worth Millions?
Several factors determine a dime’s value:
- Rarity: The fewer coins made or surviving today, the higher the value.
- Historical Significance: Coins tied to key moments in U.S. history are more desirable.
- Mint Errors: Overdates, missing mintmarks, and misprints make coins unique.
- Condition: The better a coin’s condition, the more collectors are willing to pay.
If you ever come across an old dime, don’t overlook it—it could be worth a fortune. Checking for rare mintmarks and errors might lead to an exciting discovery.
