Did you know some coins in your pocket might be worth more than a luxury car—or even a house? It’s true. Certain rare dimes and Bicentennial quarters have sold at auction for hundreds of thousands—and in one case, over $2.5 million. Whether you’re a longtime coin collector or just curious about the change in your drawer, knowing what to look for could lead to a serious payday.
Value
Why do some dimes and quarters sell for millions? It comes down to a few key things: rarity, errors, historical significance, and condition. If a coin was part of a limited mintage, struck with an error, or is in pristine shape, it can be worth way more than its face value.
Check out the biggest sales so far:
| Coin Type | Sale Price | Why It’s Rare |
|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | $2 million+ | Only 24 minted, 9 known to exist |
| 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter | $20,000+ | Collector version with silver |
| 1970-S Proof Quarter | $300,000+ | Struck on wrong coin (error) |
Factors
Want to know what makes a coin valuable? Here’s what really matters:
- Low Mintage: Fewer coins made = more valuable.
- Mint Errors: Misprints, off-center strikes, wrong blanks—collectors love them.
- Condition: Coins graded MS-65 or higher by PCGS or NGC are worth way more.
- Historical Rarity: Older coins from important years are always in demand.
Top10
Here are the top 10 most valuable dimes and Bicentennial quarters you should know about.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime ($2 Million+)
This is the crown jewel of American dimes. Only 24 were minted, and fewer than 10 are known to exist today.
How to spot it:
- Year: 1894
- Design: Liberty head with wreath
- Mintmark: “S” below the wreath
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime ($100,000+)
This dime had a tiny production run and is worth a fortune—even in worn condition.
Spot the signs:
- Winged Liberty head
- Date: 1916
- Small “D” below the olive branch
3. 1976 No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter ($30,000+)
Most Bicentennial quarters are common—but a few with no mint mark are very rare.
What to look for:
- Dual date: 1776-1976
- No mint mark
- Some made with 40% silver
4. 1970-S Proof Quarter ($300,000+)
This error coin was struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter, making it incredibly rare.
How to check:
- Mintmark: “S” for San Francisco
- Heavier weight than a regular quarter
- Get it authenticated by a grading service
5. 1942/1 Mercury Dime ($30,000+)
This error happened when a “1” was punched over the “2” in 1942.
Look for:
- Overlapping date digits
- Classic winged Liberty head
- Higher value if uncirculated
6. 1955 Double Die Penny ($25,000+)
Okay, it’s not a dime or quarter, but it’s worth mentioning. This penny shows double printing on the date and letters, making it a famous and pricey error coin.
How to tell:
- Doubling on text and date
- Lincoln portrait
Selling
Think you’ve found a winner? Here’s how to sell your coin like a pro:
- Certified Coin Dealers: A reliable option for quick and secure sales.
- Online Auctions: Try eBay or Heritage Auctions for broader reach.
- Coin Shows: Meet buyers and other collectors in person.
- Grading Services: Use NGC or PCGS to verify the coin’s authenticity and condition before selling.
Advice
If you’re serious about getting into coins, or just want to check your collection, follow these quick tips:
- Use a magnifying glass to spot fine details or errors.
- Keep coins in protective cases to avoid damage.
- Do your research—use the PCGS price guide or Numista to stay updated.
- Join a local coin club or online forum like CoinTalk.
- Never clean your coins—it can hurt their value.
So, before you toss your change into a jar, give it a second look. That old dime or quarter could be worth way more than you think. And who knows? You might be sitting on a rare piece of American history—right in your pocket.
FAQs
How can I spot a rare coin?
Look for mint marks, errors, and unusual dates.
Are Bicentennial quarters rare?
Most aren’t, but silver or no-mint-mark versions can be.
Where can I sell rare coins?
Use certified dealers, eBay, or major auction houses.
Should I clean my coins?
No, cleaning can reduce the value significantly.
What’s the most expensive dime ever sold?
The 1894-S Barber Dime—sold for over $2 million.
