Did you know some dimes can be worth thousands—or even millions—of dollars? These tiny coins may seem ordinary, but certain ones are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity, condition, or unique features.
Let’s explore ten of the most valuable dimes and what makes them so special.
1860-O Seated Liberty Dime
The 1860-O Seated Liberty Dime was minted in New Orleans, with only 40,000 made. Today, just 400 are thought to exist.
- Low-grade value (G2): $700
- Mint State value (MS64): $192,000 (auctioned in 2022)
- Top-grade value (MS67): Estimated at $225,000
1843-O Seated Liberty Dime
This dime saw a dramatic drop in production, with just 150,000 minted in New Orleans. Only four mint-state examples are known to exist, making this coin exceptionally rare.
- Last auctioned (1996): $29,700
- Estimated value now: $250,000
1916-D Mercury Dime (Full Bands)
With only 264,000 minted, the 1916-D Mercury Dime from Denver is one of the rarest. Its “Full Bands” designation, signifying a sharp strike, adds to its desirability.
- Top-grade value (MS67 Full Bands): Over $200,000
1797 Draped Bust Dime (16 Stars)
This coin’s design featured 16 stars, representing the number of U.S. states at the time. Only one mint-state example (MS66) exists, making it incredibly rare.
- Last sold (2015): $199,750
- Estimated value now: $275,000
1797 Draped Bust Dime (13 Stars)
To reduce crowding on the coin, the design was adjusted to include 13 stars. Only 50 examples remain, with just five in mint condition.
- Top-grade value (MS65): $402,500 (sold in 2006)
- Current estimate: Likely even higher
1975 No S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
This modern coin is an error—proof dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark at the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples are known, making it one of the rarest modern dimes.
- Value: $456,000 (sold in 2019)
1822 Capped Bust Dime (Proof)
Only two proof examples of the 1822 Capped Bust Dime exist. One features a stunning cameo effect, making it even more desirable to collectors.
- Last sold (2014): $440,625
- Current estimated value: $600,000
1796 Draped Bust Dime
This coin marks the first year the U.S. Mint produced dimes, with only 22,000 made. Fewer than 100 mint-state examples survive today.
- MS66+ Example: $372,000 (sold in 2023)
- MS68 Example: Estimated at $1.25 million
1820 Capped Bust Dime (Proof)
The existence of a proof coin from 1820 is debated among experts, but one PR66 example has been certified, making it a rare anomaly.
- Last sold (2019): $156,000
1796 Draped Bust Dime (MS68)
This is the only known MS68 Draped Bust Dime, setting it apart as an unmatched specimen from the first year of U.S. dime production.
- Estimated value: $1.25 million
From rare minting errors to historic first-year productions, these dimes prove that even small coins can carry massive value.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to numismatics, keeping an eye out for these treasures might just turn your pocket change into a fortune.
