The loose change in your pocket might be worth more than you think. Some rare dimes and 1976 Bicentennial Quarters could fetch millions, with a few prized coins valued at a combined $455 million. These coins, minted decades ago, have unique errors or limited runs that make them treasures for collectors. Stories of finds in old jars or cash registers have fueled a nationwide hunt, with recent auctions showing coins selling for jaw-dropping sums. Here’s a guide to the five rarest dimes and quarters you should look for in your change.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is a legend in coin collecting. Only 24 were minted in San Francisco, and fewer than 10 are known today. Some say they were test coins or gifts for a banker’s friends. A pristine one sold for $1.9 million in 2016, and experts believe values have climbed higher. Check for an “S” mint mark on the back and the 1894 date. Look for sharp details, as condition matters a lot. This dime could turn your spare change into a fortune.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another rare gem, with just 264,000 made at the Denver Mint. Its design, showing a winged Liberty head, is often called the Mercury Dime. A top-condition coin with clear bands on the back can sell for $20,400 or more. Look for a “D” mint mark near the date and check for sharp details. These coins are scarce, so finding one in good shape is a big win for collectors.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
A rare error makes the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime a collector’s dream. Only two are known, minted in San Francisco without the “S” mint mark. These proof coins have a shiny, mirror-like finish and can fetch $349,600 at auction. Check for the 1975 date and no mint mark on the front. If you find one, handle it carefully, as its value depends on its flawless condition. This dime is a true needle in a haystack.
| Coin | Key Features |
|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | S mint mark, 1894 date, sharp details |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | No S mint mark, 1975 date, proof finish |
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Another error coin, the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime, was also struck in San Francisco without its mint mark. Fewer than 20 are known, and high-quality ones have sold for up to $500,000. Like the 1975 version, it has a proof finish, making it shiny and reflective. Look for the 1968 date and no “S” near the date. These coins are rare, so a find could mean a huge payday if verified by experts.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Errors
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, with its drummer boy design and “1776-1976” dates, is common, but rare versions are worth millions. Some have doubled die errors, where text like “LIBERTY” looks blurry, or were struck on silver planchets meant for collector sets. A silver proof quarter graded PR70 Deep Cameo sold for $19,200 in 2019, and error coins can reach $70,000 or more. Check for an “S” mint mark, silver color, or doubled text.
| Coin | Value Range |
|---|---|
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | $20,400+ |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | $19,200 – $70,000+ |
The $455 million figure comes from the combined value of these rare coins, though some claims are hyped up. Recent auctions confirm high prices, like a $500,000 sale for a 1975 No-S Dime in 2024. To spot a valuable coin, use a magnifying glass to check dates, mint marks, and errors. Handle coins by the edges and get them graded by PCGS or NGC. Your next trip to the store could yield a coin worth millions, so keep your eyes open.