11 Most Valuable Dimes Worth Big Money – Check Your Coins

11 Most Valuable Dimes Worth Big Money – Dimes might seem like humble ten-cent coins, but some rare specimens have soared to incredible values, turning everyday change into collector’s treasures. From minting errors to low-production runs, these tiny coins can be worth hundreds, thousands, or even millions.

Could one be sitting in your coin jar or wallet? Here’s a look at the 11 most valuable dimes in U.S. history—and how to spot them.

1. 1894-S Barber Dime

The holy grail of dimes, the 1894-S Barber Dime is a legend among collectors. Only 24 were minted at the San Francisco Mint, and just nine are known today. One sold for $1.9 million in 2007. Check for an “S” mintmark below the wreath on the reverse of any 1894 Barber Dime—it’s a long shot, but a life-changer if you find one.

Also Read: 11 High-Value Roosevelt Dimes – Find Out If You Own One

2. 1916-D Mercury Dime

The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a key date for this series, with a mere 264,000 minted in Denver. In pristine condition (MS-67 or higher), it can fetch $50,000 or more. Look for the “D” mintmark on the reverse, near the olive branch, and pray for sharp details.

3. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime

Minted in Carson City with a tiny production of 12,400, the 1873-CC No Arrows Dime is a Wild West rarity. Most were melted down, leaving few survivors. One in top condition sold for over $400,000. Spot it by the “CC” mintmark and the absence of arrows beside the date.

4. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime

This San Francisco proof dime lacks its “S” mintmark due to a mint error. With only about 20 known examples, it’s worth up to $40,000 in pristine condition. Check your 1968 proof dimes (shiny, mirror-like coins) for a missing “S” near the date.

5. 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime

Another proof rarity, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is even scarcer—only two are confirmed to exist. One fetched over $500,000 at auction. Examine any proof-quality 1975 dimes for the absent “S” mintmark.

Also Read: 15 Valuable State Quarters That Could Be Worth a Fortune

6. 1874-CC Liberty Seated Dime

The 1874-CC Liberty Seated Dime, with its “CC” mintmark from Carson City, had a mintage of just 10,817. In high grade, it can bring $100,000 or more. Look for the “CC” below the wreath on the reverse and hope for minimal wear.

7. 1921-D Mercury Dime

With a mintage of 1.08 million, the 1921-D Mercury Dime is a scarce date from Denver. In uncirculated condition, it can reach $5,000 or higher. Check for the “D” mintmark and crisp feathers on Liberty’s winged cap.

8. 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate

This dramatic error occurred when a 1942 die was stamped over a 1941 die, creating a visible “2 over 1” on the date. The Philadelphia version is rarest, selling for $20,000 or more in top condition. Inspect 1942 dimes for this funky date overlap.

9. 1796 Draped Bust Dime

One of the first dimes ever minted in the U.S., the 1796 Draped Bust Dime had a run of 22,135. In near-mint condition, it can exceed $50,000. Look for the early design: a bust of Liberty on the front and an eagle on the back, with no denomination listed.

10. 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime

A modern rarity, the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime lacks the Philadelphia “P” mintmark due to a minting oversight. In uncirculated condition, it’s worth $200 to $300. Check your 1982 dimes for a blank spot where the “P” should be.

11. 1860-O Liberty Seated Dime

The 1860-O, minted in New Orleans before the Civil War, had a tiny mintage of 40,000. In high grade, it can fetch $10,000 or more. Look for the “O” mintmark below the wreath and a seated Liberty on the obverse.

Also Read: 6 Rare Morgan Silver Dollars Every Collector Should Know

How to Spot a Valuable Dime

To see if you’ve got one of these jackpot dimes, you’ll need:

• A Magnifier: Check mintmarks (P, D, S, O, CC, W) and dates for errors like doubling or overdates.
• Good Lighting: Assess condition—coins with little wear (uncirculated) or proof finishes are worth more.
• Reference: Compare to online images of these varieties for accuracy.

What to Do If You Find One

If you think you’ve struck gold—or silver—get your dime appraised by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. Authentication and a high grade can multiply its value. Even lower-grade examples of these rarities can still fetch a pretty penny at auction.

The Thrill of the Chase

Most dimes won’t make you rich, but the chance of finding one of these 11 valuable coins adds excitement to every handful of change. From the historic 1796 Draped Bust to the modern 1982 No-P, these dimes prove that big money can come in small packages. So, grab your coins and start checking—you might just be holding a miniature fortune!