Collecting coins is a hobby that can be both enjoyable and financially rewarding. Among U.S. coinage, certain dimes have become highly sought after due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique features. This article highlights six rare dimes that could be worth up to $50,000, providing detailed information on each to assist collectors and enthusiasts in identifying these valuable coins.
1. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most coveted coins among collectors.
- Mintage: Approximately 264,000
- Mint Location: Denver (indicated by the “D” mint mark)
- Design: Features Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap on the obverse and a fasces with an olive branch on the reverse
- Value: In excellent condition, this coin can fetch up to $50,000
Its low mintage and the popularity of the Mercury dime series contribute to its high value.
2. 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is notable for its overdate error, where the date shows a “2” over a “1.”
- Mintage: Unknown, but considered rare
- Mint Locations: Philadelphia and Denver (“D” mint mark)
- Design: Similar to other Mercury dimes, with the overdate visible on the obverse
- Value: Depending on condition, values can reach up to $50,000
This error occurred due to the reuse of a 1941 die in 1942, making it a prized find for collectors.
3. 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime from the Carson City Mint is rare, especially the “No Arrows” variety.
- Mintage: Limited, exact numbers unknown
- Mint Location: Carson City (“CC” mint mark)
- Design: Depicts Lady Liberty seated on a rock on the obverse and a wreath surrounding “ONE DIME” on the reverse
- Value: High-grade specimens can be worth up to $50,000
The “No Arrows” variety indicates it was minted before a design change that added arrows beside the date.
4. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
The 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a proof coin missing the “S” mint mark, indicating it was minted in San Francisco.
- Mintage: Few known examples
- Mint Location: San Francisco (missing “S” mint mark)
- Design: Features President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse and a torch flanked by olive and oak branches on the reverse
- Value: Pristine examples have sold for up to $45,600
This minting error makes it one of the most valuable modern dimes.
5. 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime is notable for the absence of the “P” mint mark, indicating it was minted in Philadelphia.
- Mintage: Few known examples
- Mint Location: Philadelphia (missing “P” mint mark)
- Design: Similar to other Roosevelt dimes, with the missing mint mark on the obverse
- Value: Depending on condition, these dimes can be worth up to $50,000
This error was the first instance of a missing mint mark on a circulating U.S. coin.
6. 1955 Roosevelt Dime Double Die Obverse
The 1955 Roosevelt Dime with a double die obverse features noticeable doubling in the inscriptions and date.
- Mintage: Unknown, but the error is rare
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Design: Standard Roosevelt dime design with doubling visible on the obverse text
- Value: High-grade coins can fetch up to $25,000
This doubling error occurred during the die-making process, making it a valuable find.
| Dime | Mintage | Mint Mark | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 264,000 | D | Up to $50,000 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate | Rare | None/D | Up to $50,000 |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime | Limited | CC | Up to $50,000 |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof) | Few known | None | Up to $45,600 |
| 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime | Few known | None | Up to $50,000 |
| 1955 Roosevelt Dime Double Die | Rare | None | Up to $25,000 |
Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on the coin’s condition and the current market demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime so valuable?
- Its low mintage of approximately 264,000 and high demand among collectors contribute to its significant value.
- Why is the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime highly sought after?
- The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime is rare due to its limited mintage and historical significance, especially the “No Arrows” variety. These dimes were minted before a design change that added arrows beside the date, making surviving examples valuable to collectors.
- What makes the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime valuable?
- This dime is significant because it lacks the “P” mint mark, which should appear on all Philadelphia-minted coins after 1980. The error was unintentional and rare, leading to its high value, especially in uncirculated condition.
Collecting rare dimes can be both a rewarding hobby and a potential investment opportunity. Coins like the 1916-D Mercury Dime, 1942/1 Overdate, and 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime offer remarkable stories and significant value for those lucky enough to find them. By staying informed and vigilant, you might just discover one of these hidden treasures in your change jar or at a local coin shop.
