When it comes to coin collecting, dimes and quarters typically don’t make news. Occasionally, however, a seemingly little coin can reveal a hidden gem worth thousands or even millions of dollars.
These uncommon coins have astonished collectors and created numismatic history, ranging from early minting faults to enigmatic proofs without mint marks.
Ten of the rarest dimes and bicentennial quarters are featured here, each having an incredible value and a unique backstory.
1. Barber Dime, 1894-S
Value Estimate: $2 million or more
The holy grail of dimes is this coin. Only nine of the twenty-four that were ever struck are known to exist today.
- San Francisco-based mint
- Supposedly made as presents
- According to reports, one was used for ice cream.
- Over $2 million has been sold at auction.
The most valuable dime in American history, it could sell for up to $10 million if it were to appear today in perfect condition.
2. Mercury Dime, 1916-D
Value Estimate: Over $100,000
Only 264,000 of the Mercury dime series were made in Denver in this first year.
- Minimal mintage
- Fine details in superior grades
- The series’ pivotal date
These dimes regularly fetch more than $100,000 when they are in uncirculated condition.
3. Overdate of 1942/1 Mercury Dime
Value Estimate: Between $30,000 and $75,000.
A die from 1941 was overpunched with the 1942 date during World War II, creating an obvious overdate that was visible to the unaided eye.
- Philadelphia-based mint
- The error displays a “1” beneath the “2.”
- Well-liked by error collectors
When in excellent condition, clean specimens can achieve prices far into the tens of thousands.
4. No S Proof Roosevelt Dime, 1975
Value Estimate: $450,000+
This dime, one of the rarest contemporary coins ever produced, should include the San Francisco “S” mint mark, but it doesn’t.
- There are just two examples that are known.
- The proof coin was inadvertently left blank.
- In 2019, it sold for $456,000.
Should another one emerge, it could easily surpass $500,000.
5. No S Proof Roosevelt Dime, 1968
Value Estimate: $20,000 to $30,000.
This time from 1968, another mint mark mishap. The “S” was accidentally omitted from these proof dimes, which were also produced in San Francisco.
- More prevalent than the version from 1975
- Still incredibly uncommon
- Extremely valuable in proof sets
Coins of the highest grade have brought in over $30,000.
6. Quarter of the Bicentennial in 1976
Face value to thousands is the estimated worth.
Everywhere you look is the typical 1976 quarter. However, depending on the metal composition, quality, and mint faults, some can be surprisingly valuable.
- includes the design of a colonial drummer.
- A portion of the celebration of the bicentennial
- Both clad and silver forms are available.
Rare mistakes and proofs can fetch hefty prices, but circulated versions aren’t worth much.
7. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter of Silver Proof
Value Estimate: $100 to $500
These were designed for collectors and struck in 40% silver by the San Francisco Mint.
- Outstanding proof finish
- Special bicentennial set packaging
- Still reasonably priced but increasing in value
These days, flawless examples can fetch several hundred dollars.
8. Dime Planchet’s 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Value Estimate: $5,000 to $15,000.
The strike of a quarter design onto a smaller dime-sized blank is a classic mint mistake.
- A rare mint error
- lighter and more compact than a typical quarter
- incredibly collectible
They sell for thousands of dollars each, and there are only a handful known to exist.
9. 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter
Value Estimate: $500–$2,000
The design features on the coin’s obverse (front) are doubled in this misprint.
- The date and writing are visible twice.
- More difficult to locate in circulation
- Clarity and condition determine value.
These kind of mistakes are highly prized by collectors, and excellent grades can yield hefty profits.
10. Quarter of the 1976 Aluminium Bicentennial (Pattern)
Value Estimate: Possibly $2 million or more
Because it might not be legal, this coin might be the rarest of all.
- Version of aluminium used in experiments
- intended to test less expensive metals
- Never formally published
It could fetch millions of dollars if a real one appeared and was lawful to own.
