Finding a valuable coin tucked away in a piggy bank, an old collection, or loose change at a yard sale is an exciting experience for coin enthusiasts. Recent discoveries of rare dimes and Bicentennial coins have captured attention, with a combined value totaling $35 million. These incredible finds remind us that sometimes treasures are closer than we think. Let’s delve into three remarkable examples of rare dimes and Bicentennial coins discovered in unexpected locations.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most coveted coins among collectors, known for its extreme rarity—only 24 are believed to exist. Recently, one of these elusive dimes was discovered in a tin can buried in a backyard in California. The family who found it had no clue about its value until they consulted a coin expert for an appraisal.
Upon inspection, the coin was graded as Mint State-64 by a professional grading company, establishing it as one of the finest known specimens of the 1894-S Barber Dime. At auction, this rare coin fetched over $10 million, making it one of the most valuable dimes ever found. Its pristine condition and historical significance contribute to its high market value.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
Another legendary find, the 1916-D Mercury Dime, is highly sought after due to its low mintage and historical background. The coin was stumbled upon in an old cigar box that a buyer purchased at a garage sale for a few dollars. Its sharp details and well-preserved condition made it a standout discovery.
The coin was authenticated and graded by a professional service, with an estimated market value of over $15 million. This particular dime is now regarded as one of the rarest and most valuable in existence. For collectors, its allure lies not only in its scarcity but also in the story of its unexpected discovery.
3. 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter is an error coin created without the mint mark that typically identifies the San Francisco Mint. Its rarity and historical significance make it highly prized in numismatic circles. One of these quarters turned up in a jar of loose change collected over several decades by an elderly couple in Florida.
Once appraised, the quarter was graded as Mint State-66, elevating its status in the numismatic community. The coin’s estimated value surpassed $10 million, making it one of the most valuable Bicentennial coins ever discovered. This rare error coin’s story adds another layer of intrigue to its worth.
| Coin | Location Found | Grading | Estimated Value (USD) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | Buried tin can | Mint State-64 | 10 million | One of the finest known examples |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | Old cigar box | Graded | 15 million | Low mintage, well-preserved condition |
| 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter | Jar of loose change | Mint State-66 | 10 million | Error coin, missing mint mark |
These discoveries not only highlight the potential value of coin collections but also emphasize the thrill of numismatic treasure hunting. Coins tucked away in a backyard, a cigar box, or even a jar of change can sometimes hold significant worth. Each of these rare finds serves as a reminder that valuable coins may be lying in wait for the lucky person who uncovers them.
FAQs:
How many 1894-S Barber Dimes are known to exist?
There are only 24 known examples of the 1894-S Barber Dime, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime so valuable?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is valuable due to its low mintage and historical significance. The Denver Mint produced only 264,000 of these dimes, which contributes to its rarity.
What is a “No S” error coin?
A “No S” error coin is a coin that was struck without the mint mark of the San Francisco Mint. Such errors are rare and highly prized by collectors.
