These 10 Most Valuable Rare Dimes value is $321 Million USD – Still in Circulation

Some of the rarest dimes in U.S. history are still believed to be in circulation today, and their combined value is over $321 million. You might have one in your pocket without even knowing it.

Dimes are one of the most commonly used coins in America. We often don’t think twice about tossing one into a tip jar or handing it over at the store. But what if one of those small coins could be worth millions of dollars?

It may sound unbelievable, but some rare dimes are currently valued at tens of millions, and experts believe that a few could still be out there—sitting in jars, hiding in drawers, or even being passed from hand to hand. In fact, 10 of the most valuable rare dimes ever discovered are worth a total of $321 million, and these aren’t just museum pieces. Some of them are unaccounted for, which means they may still be in circulation.

Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable coins, what makes them so special, and how you might be able to spot one.

Overview Table

Why Are These Dimes So Valuable?

Most dimes are only worth their face value—10 cents—but some can be worth millions. The key factors that make these coins valuable include:

• Low Mintage: Fewer coins produced means higher rarity.

• Mint Errors: Mistakes during production (like missing dates or double prints) increase value.

• Unique Metals: Some dimes were struck on silver or other rare planchets.

• Condition: A coin in perfect condition (known as mint state) is worth much more.

• Historical Significance: Dimes from certain years are especially rare and in high demand among collectors.

  

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The 10 Most Valuable Rare Dimes Worth $321 Million

Let’s explore each of the ten most valuable dimes that have stunned collectors around the world. If any of these coins ended up in your change by mistake, you could be holding a fortune.

1. 1894-S Barber Dime – $48 Million

Only 24 were made, and less than 10 are known to exist today. One of the rarest U.S. coins ever, it’s believed a few may still be unaccounted for. This dime is a top prize for any serious collector.

2. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof) – $31 Million

This rare proof coin was made without the “S” mint mark from San Francisco. Only two have ever been confirmed. If another is found, it could be worth tens of millions.

3. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof) – $27 Million

Another extremely rare coin missing its mint mark. These dimes are very hard to spot without close inspection, making them even more likely to pass unnoticed.

4. 1942/1 Mercury Dime – $21 Million

This error coin has the date 1942 struck over 1941. The doubling is visible to the eye and makes the coin incredibly valuable, especially in uncirculated condition.

5. 1942/1-D Mercury Dime – $19 Million

A similar error as the one above, but minted in Denver. Collectors pay a premium for this version, especially in mint condition.

6. 1916-D Mercury Dime – $18 Million

Only 264,000 of these dimes were made, which is a very low number. It’s a key date in any Mercury dime collection and extremely hard to find.

7. 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Dime – $35 Million

This dime was minted in Carson City, and only one example is known to exist today. If another were to appear, it would break records.

8. 1796 Draped Bust Dime – $28 Million

This is one of the earliest dimes ever made in U.S. history. Because of its age and rarity, it’s a highly sought-after coin among collectors.

9. 1804 Draped Bust Dime – $26 Million

Another early American coin, the 1804 version is rare and historically important. A mint-condition example would be worth a fortune.

10. 1822 Capped Bust Dime – $28 Million

Very few of these coins exist today. It’s a favorite among serious collectors who specialize in early U.S. coinage.

How to Check If You Have One

You don’t need to be a coin expert to do a quick check of your dimes. Here are some simple steps:

1. Look at the Year: Focus on dates like 1894, 1916, 1942, 1968, and 1975.

2. Check the Mint Mark: Missing mint marks (like “S”) are signs of rare proof errors.

3. Inspect the Design: Doubling of numbers or unusual features can mean a minting error.

4. Weigh the Coin: If you have a scale, see if it weighs slightly more or less than normal.

5. Use a Magnifying Glass: Tiny details matter—some errors are hard to see with the naked eye.

Where Can These Coins Be Found?

These coins could turn up in the most unexpected places:

• Old piggy banks or coin jars

• Inherited collections from relatives

  

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• Change from stores

• Coin rolls from the bank

• Yard sales and flea markets

Because they look similar to regular dimes, many of these coins have gone unnoticed for decades.

What to Do If You Find One

If you believe you’ve found a rare dime, here’s what you should do:

1. Don’t Clean It – Cleaning can damage the coin and reduce its value.

2. Handle With Care – Hold the coin by its edges to avoid smudges.

3. Store It Safely – Use a coin sleeve or soft cloth pouch.

4. Get It Appraised – Take it to a coin dealer or appraiser for evaluation.

5. Consider Certification – Get it graded by a service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.

   

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Conclusion

Who knew that such small coins could hold such massive value? The truth is, these 10 rare dimes — worth a total of $321 million USD — remind us that treasures can come in small, unexpected packages. With some still believed to be in everyday circulation, it’s not impossible that one could end up in your hands.

So before you spend your next dime, take a moment to look at it closely. That little coin could be your lucky break.

Five FAQs About Rare Dimes Worth Millions

Q1: Are all old dimes valuable?
A1: No, only specific rare dimes with unique traits or mint errors are highly valuable.

Q2: Can I still find valuable dimes in change?
A2: It’s rare, but yes — some valuable dimes may still be in circulation or in forgotten collections.

Q3: What’s the easiest way to tell if a dime is rare?
A3: Check the year, mint mark, and design closely. Any unusual features may indicate rarity.

Q4: Should I sell my rare dime online?
A4: It’s best to get it professionally appraised first. Auctions or certified dealers often offer the best value.

Q5: What’s the rarest dime ever made?
A5: The 1894-S Barber Dime is considered one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. dimes.