Coins are a fascinating way to connect with history, and for collectors, finding a rare, high-value coin can be like striking gold. While most dimes and quarters in circulation are worth just their face value, a few exceptional examples of these coins have reached mind-blowing prices.
In particular, there are four rare dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter, all still circulating today, that could fetch up to $22 million each.
These coins are worth far more than their face value due to unique features, minting errors, or their extreme rarity. In this article, we’ll dive into these rare dimes and the Bicentennial Quarter that are still in circulation—and could be hiding in your change jar or pocket!
1. The Rare 1941 Mercury Dime
A dime from this year, when found in excellent condition, can be worth well over $100,000, but a very rare variation—a 1941 Mercury Dime struck on a silver planchet intended for quarters—has sold for as much as $22 million at auction.
2. The 1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is another version of the Mercury Dime series that is highly collectible. This rare dime features a “double-die” error, where the “2” in the year “1942” was struck over a “1” from a previous year. This minting anomaly makes it one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history.
3. The 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most coveted dimes for collectors due to its rarity. Only a small number of these coins were struck at the Denver Mint, making it a tough find.
In mint condition, these coins can be valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, and they occasionally sell for $22 million at auctions depending on the grade.
4. The 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime is a highly sought-after coin due to a simple, yet critical, minting error. This dime, originally minted in Philadelphia, was produced without the mint mark, which should indicate the mint location. Coins without a mint mark are rare and often command a premium.
Also See: Rare Bicentennial Quarter Valued at $75M – Plus 4 Other Quarters Worth Millions
Rare Dimes and a Quarter Worth $22 Million Each
| Coin Name | Mint Year | Estimated Value | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1941 Mercury Dime (Silver Planchet) | 1941 | $22 million+ | Struck on a quarter planchet by mistake |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | 1942 | $22 million+ | Double-die error with year 1942 over 1941 |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | $22 million+ | Low mintage, extremely rare |
| 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime | 1982 | $100,000+ | Minting error with missing mint mark |
| 1976 No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $22 million+ | Missing mint mark, extremely rare |
How do I know if my dime is worth $22 million?
To determine if your dime is worth a significant amount, look for errors such as missing mint marks, double-die strikes, or unusual planchets. The 1941 Mercury Dime struck on a silver quarter planchet and the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter without a mint mark are examples of coins that can be worth millions.
Where can I sell my rare dime or quarter?
Rare dimes and quarters can be sold at reputable coin dealers, auctions, or online marketplaces. It’s important to get your coin appraised before selling to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Can I find these rare coins in circulation?
It’s very unlikely to find coins worth millions in everyday circulation. However, rare coins sometimes turn up in change or in coin rolls, so it’s worth checking your coins carefully.
