Coin collecting is a hobby that combines historical intrigue, financial investment, and the thrill of the hunt for rare and valuable pieces.
Among the most fascinating and sought-after coins are dimes, particularly those with unique varieties and errors that make them stand out.
For collectors, discovering these rare dimes can be a significant milestone, adding both value and prestige to their collections.
This listicle delves into seven rare dime varieties that every serious collector should know, offering insider info on what makes each one special and why they are highly prized in the numismatic community.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most famous and valuable rare dimes, with only 24 known to have been minted.
This limited mintage has made the 1894-S an elusive treasure for collectors.
It was produced at the San Francisco Mint, and the story behind its creation adds to its allure.
Legend has it that the coins were minted as gifts for prominent bankers, with a few given to the mint director’s daughter.
Today, only nine specimens are confirmed to exist, making it a centerpiece in any collection.
The rarity and historical context of the 1894-S Barber Dime significantly enhance its value, often fetching prices in the millions at auctions.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another highly sought-after piece, primarily because it was the first year of the Mercury Dime series and was minted in relatively low quantities at the Denver Mint.
With a mintage of only 264,000, it stands out as the key date in the series.
The design, featuring Liberty with a winged cap symbolizing freedom of thought, is a favorite among collectors.
High-grade examples are particularly rare and valuable, as the coin’s delicate features wear down easily.
This dime is a must-have for Mercury Dime enthusiasts and is considered a cornerstone of early 20th-century U.S. coinage.
3. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Proof coins are typically struck with high precision and detail, often bearing a mint mark indicating their origin.
The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is an anomaly because it lacks the “S” mint mark that should denote it was produced at the San Francisco Mint.
Only a few thousand of these error coins are believed to exist.
The absence of the mint mark makes this dime a rare find, particularly for proof set collectors.
These coins were intended to be part of proof sets, making the error even more significant to those who collect these specially minted sets.
Their rarity and the intrigue of the minting error make them highly valuable.
4. 1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is a famous overdate error where the die from the previous year (1941) was not fully effaced before being reused, resulting in a visible “1” under the “2” in the date.
This error occurred at both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, making it an interesting case of a widespread mistake.
The overdate is particularly noticeable under magnification and is a key variety for Mercury Dime collectors.
These dimes are rare, and their error status adds a unique element to any collection.
High-grade examples are especially prized, often commanding significant premiums.
5. 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is another proof coin that was struck without the “S” mint mark.
Like the 1968 No-S, these coins were intended for proof sets, but a small number were minted without the identifying mark.
The 1975 No-S is even rarer, with only two confirmed specimens known to exist.
This extreme rarity has made it a legendary coin among collectors.
Its unique status as a proof error and its scarcity make it one of the most desirable dimes for advanced numismatists.
The few times these dimes have appeared at auction, they have fetched impressive prices, reflecting their high demand.
6. 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime, minted in Carson City, is notable for its scarcity and the historical significance of its minting location.
Carson City coins are generally sought after due to the mint’s association with the Old West and the silver boom.
The 1873-CC dime is particularly rare because most were melted down following the Coinage Act of 1873, which demonetized silver.
This makes surviving examples extremely rare. Additionally, there are two varieties of this dime: one with arrows at the date and one without.
The “arrows” variety is rarer and highly prized. Collectors value these coins not only for their rarity but also for the rich history they represent.
7. 1919-D Full Bands Mercury Dime
The 1919-D Full Bands Mercury Dime is highly sought after for its condition rarity.
“Full Bands” refers to the horizontal bands on the fasces (a bundle of rods) on the reverse of the coin, which are often weakly struck.
A Full Bands designation means the bands are fully separated and well-defined, indicating a high-quality strike.
The 1919-D Mercury Dime, particularly with Full Bands, is rare because of the Denver Mint’s tendency to produce weaker strikes during that period.
Collectors seek out these high-grade examples, and their scarcity in top condition makes them very valuable.
A Full Bands specimen significantly increases the coin’s desirability and market value.
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Conclusion
Collecting rare dimes is a fascinating journey that combines historical intrigue, numismatic knowledge, and the thrill of the hunt.
The seven rare dimes discussed here each have unique stories and characteristics that make them prized possessions in any collection.
Whether it’s the legendary 1894-S Barber Dime, the overdate error of the 1942/1 Mercury Dime, or the condition rarity of the 1919-D Full Bands Mercury Dime, these coins offer a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of U.S. coinage.
For collectors, acquiring these rare varieties not only adds significant value to their collections but also deepens their appreciation for the intricate world of numismatics.