Rare coins have always held a special appeal for collectors and investors alike. While gold and silver bullion often dominate discussions, certain dimes and quarters, especially the Bicentennial quarters, have seen their values skyrocket due to their rarity, historical background, and minting anomalies.
Some of these coins now command prices reaching tens of millions of dollars, transforming them into truly life-changing discoveries. Let’s explore eight exceptional coins, a mix of rare dimes and quarters, with a combined estimated worth of around $75 million.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark, Double Die) – Estimated Over $20 Million
This 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary and features the iconic Drummer Boy design. A rare variant exists without a mint mark and shows a double die on the obverse, meaning the date and motto appear doubled. Although struck on proof planchets, some of these coins ended up in circulation.
Fewer than 10 examples are known to exist, and one top-grade specimen sold for more than $20 million at auction. If you own a 1976 quarter, inspect the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” for signs of doubling—you might be holding a piece of history with extraordinary value.
1894-S Barber Dime – Worth Around $10 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is arguably one of the most famous and rare dimes in U.S. history. Only 24 were minted, and fewer than 10 have survived to this day. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, these coins were mainly distributed to VIPs and officials rather than the general public.
One example sold for $2 million back in 1990, but values have dramatically increased since then, with top-condition specimens now estimated at $10 million. Spotting one in an auction or collection means encountering a coin that very few collectors will ever see.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Valued at Over $2 Million
This dime is a rare minting error that lacks the “S” mint mark usually found on proof coins produced in San Francisco. Only two such error coins are confirmed to exist.
These dimes were accidentally included in proof sets and have become highly sought after by collectors. The rarity, combined with the story behind the error, has pushed their market value beyond $2 million. If you have a 1975 proof set, it’s definitely worth examining closely for this exceptional coin.
1968-S No-S Roosevelt Dime – Valued Up to $500,000
Another fascinating mint error is the 1968-S No-S Roosevelt Dime, which was intended to be a proof coin from the San Francisco Mint but is missing its mint mark. More of these coins have surfaced compared to the 1975 No-S dime, yet they remain extremely rare.
Certified examples number fewer than 20 and can fetch prices between $200,000 and $500,000 depending on their condition. This coin’s value stems from the combination of being a proof coin and lacking the mint mark, making it a prized rarity for collectors.
1976-S Bicentennial Silver Proof Quarter – Valued at Approximately $750,000
This special silver proof quarter from 1976 was produced in a limited quantity and is highly prized when found in flawless condition. Collectors especially prize those with a deep cameo finish and no post-mint imperfections.
One such example, graded PR70DCAM, sold for over $750,000. These quarters were originally included in a special three-coin silver proof set released by the U.S. Mint, and many remain carefully stored away, hidden in safety deposit boxes or family collections.
1942/1 Mercury Dime – Worth Up to $300,000
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is a classic minting error caused by die reuse, where the “1” from 1941 was partially left visible beneath the newly engraved “2” for 1942.
This overdate error is noticeable without magnification and significantly increases the coin’s value. Even lower-grade examples are worth thousands, while mint-state versions can command prices approaching $300,000. This error is one of the most striking and sought-after in the realm of dime collecting.
1982 No P Roosevelt Dime – Valued Above $75,000
In 1982, a small batch of Roosevelt dimes was mistakenly struck at the Philadelphia Mint without the “P” mint mark, an uncommon error for that period. Only a few thousand of these error coins entered circulation before the mistake was discovered. These dimes still occasionally turn up in circulation or coin rolls today.
While not as rare as some other coins on this list, pristine specimens of the 1982 No P dime have been known to sell for $75,000 or more, showing how even modern error coins can achieve collectible status.
1916-D Mercury Dime – Valued Over $250,000
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a favorite among collectors due to its low mintage of just 264,000 coins. It was the first year of the Mercury dime series, and the Denver Mint produced only a small fraction of the total.
While circulated coins may sell for modest sums, those in mint condition have fetched upwards of $250,000 at auction. If you find one with a small “D” mint mark on the reverse, you could be holding a relatively small coin with an enormous potential payout.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my dime or quarter is rare?
Look closely at the date, mint mark, and any visible errors such as doubling or missing details. Using coin value guides or getting your coins appraised by professional graders like PCGS or NGC can help determine rarity and value.
Are Bicentennial Quarters valuable if they’ve been circulated?
Typically, circulated Bicentennial Quarters are only worth face value. However, error versions or rare proof editions can be worth thousands or even millions.
Is it safe to sell rare coins online?
Yes, many reputable platforms such as Heritage Auctions, eBay (especially with professional grading), and Stack’s Bowers facilitate rare coin sales. Always verify the authenticity of buyers and consider grading your coins to maximize value.
Should I clean my coins before selling?
No, cleaning coins often damages their surfaces and drastically reduces their value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, untouched condition.
Final Thoughts
Coin collecting is filled with unexpected treasures, and sometimes the smallest coin in your possession can hold incredible value. From rare Bicentennial quarters to fascinating error dimes, the right coin can truly transform your financial future.
As interest in rare coins continues to grow, now is the ideal time to sift through old collections, spare change jars, or inherited albums. The eight coins highlighted here have an estimated total worth of $75 million, so your next great find could be hiding in plain sight.
Thanks for the updates and keeping your viewers informed
I have an error 2011 penny it’s been stamped wrong . How can find it’s value?
I have 1989 one Dime coin how is this
I have many Collection of Dollars from $1 year 1971, 1972, 1976 and 1979 same as Half dollar couns $50, Quarters $25 , Dime 10cents , Nickle 5 cents and 1 cent penny That are old enough my Mo’m found in Goodwill Store in One of Store in Miami Florida usa.
Good evening I have 1967s I want to sell it can you direct where I can sell it.Thank
You can sell your rare coin on https://www.greatcollections.com/ — it’s a trusted online auction platform for coins and collectibles!
upto 2 years i have an Roosevelt dime no S 1975, i live in Somalia but just the coin is in the Canada,
if you are interesting you can contact every time you are ready welcome with open hands
I have bicentennial dollar coin, is it worth $
Hi please, I want to inform you that I have many old and rare coins. So, may you send to me your WhatsApp number? This will help me to send to you the images of coin’s needed. Thanks.
You can sell your rare coin on https://www.greatcollections.com/ — it’s a trusted online auction platform for coins and collectibles!
I have 2 1776-1976 quarters
So I have the coin. The 1976 quarter, where can I sell it
You can sell your rare coin on https://www.greatcollections.com/ — it’s a trusted online auction platform for coins and collectibles!
I have 2 coins for sale
1 most ancient
Netherlands East Indies 1 duit
1 most valuable
USA ¼ dollar, Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness
I have a 2025 quarter with just a woman on one side with no writing. It doesn’t say on either side that it’s worth 25 cents or that it’s a quarter. How can I tell if it’s worth anything? Thank you for your time.
Someone took the time to assemble the collection, so you may have at least something special to start the grading process. Collecting
becomes learning process
I have every coin set from 1955 til 2019. And a whole ton of loose coins dating back to the 1800’s. Have lost my husband and need to sale. What should I do with them? Can’t afford to get the loose ones graded
I have a bicentennial 1976 no mint mark double died how can I sell it
My Name Is: Harold DavidClarence LaRue
(“I’ve Been Collecting Coins For A While Now; An I Got Some Old Coin’s Wheat Penny’s Nickel’s Roosevelt Dime’s Bicentennial Quarter’s.”)
Mr Nick Hernandez Assemble Looking forward to process Grading my coin”s I believe in success do you Have a phone number on Grading coin”s i Like to have coin”s appraiseses connect number i like i Need your phone Number please
To PCGS NGC Thank you.
All of ‘These VALUES are Horribly INFLATED’. Where did you RESEARCH for this article???
I have a lot of liberty dimes. I have a Roosevelt 65 silver dime, alot of silver dimes, quarters, and bicentennial quarters, Kennedy half’s. Where should I go to see if they have any value to them?