In the world of numismatics, some coins rise far above the rest, not just because of their age or appearance, but due to their staggering value. As of 2025, a few rare dimes and special Bicentennial quarters are turning heads in the collector market — some even rumored to be worth millions.
If you’ve ever glanced at the spare change in your drawer, this might be the year to take a closer look.
Table of Contents
- 1 Millionaires
- 2 1894-S Barber Dime
- 3 1916-D Mercury Dime
- 4 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
- 5 1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
- 6 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate
- 7 Bicentennial
- 8 Basic Facts
- 9 Valuable Quarters
- 10 1976 Quarter Struck on Dime Planchet
- 11 1976 Quarter/Nickel Mule
- 12 1976-D Quarter Missing Clad Layer
- 13 1976 Off-Center Strike Quarter
- 14 Myths
- 15 Factors
- 16 Identification
- 17 Tips
- 18 Future
- 19 FAQs
Millionaires
Let’s start with five dimes that could change your life overnight. These aren’t just old coins — they’re pieces of American history with sky-high price tags.
1894-S Barber Dime
This is the holy grail of dimes. Only 24 were minted, and just 9 are known to exist today. Rumor has it that one was even spent on ice cream.
- Mintage: 24
- Known Survivors: 9
- Value: $2,000,000 – $2,500,000
1916-D Mercury Dime
Struck at the Denver Mint, this dime had a low mintage year due to a focus on quarters. Collectors love it — especially those in pristine condition.
- Mintage: 264,000
- Value: $10,000 – $100,000+
1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
An ultra-modern error, this proof coin was accidentally struck without a mint mark from San Francisco.
- Known Specimens: Under 50
- Value: $300,000 – $500,000
1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Even rarer than the 1975 version, this dime lacks the San Francisco mint mark and is one of the hardest-to-find proof errors.
- Known Specimens: About 12
- Value: $75,000 – $125,000
1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate
This fascinating error happened when a 1942 die was struck over a 1941 one, showing both digits. A true WWII-era treasure.
- Mintage: Unknown
- Value: $5,000 – $50,000
Bicentennial
Most people think Bicentennial quarters are only worth 25 cents. That’s usually true — unless you’ve got one of these rare varieties.
Basic Facts
- Year: 1975–1976
- Design: Colonial drummer on reverse
- Metal: Mostly copper-nickel (some 40% silver versions exist)
Valuable Quarters
These were collector coins, and those with strong cameo contrast bring top dollar.
- Value: $20 – $200
1976 Quarter Struck on Dime Planchet
A serious minting error makes this smaller-than-normal quarter a high-value find.
- Value: $5,000 – $10,000
1976 Quarter/Nickel Mule
Still unconfirmed, but this coin is rumored to feature a nickel front and a quarter back — which could fetch over six figures.
- Value: $100,000+
1976-D Quarter Missing Clad Layer
This one shows its copper core and is prized by error collectors.
- Value: $500 – $2,000+
1976 Off-Center Strike Quarter
Struck way off the mark, this quarter stands out immediately.
- Value: $300 – $3,000+
Myths
A few reports claim a Bicentennial quarter sold for $17 million. While this is almost certainly exaggerated, it highlights how much buzz there is around rare quarters. In reality, even the rarest ones top out in the tens of thousands.
Factors
What makes some coins worth a fortune? A few key things:
- Rarity: Few known examples skyrocket demand.
- Condition: Higher-grade coins sell for more.
- Error Type: Clear, dramatic mistakes add value.
- Historical Significance: Some coins just matter more.
- Certification: Grading by PCGS or NGC ensures authenticity and boosts price.
Identification
Want to know if your coin is valuable? Start here:
- Check the year and mint mark
- Look for minting errors or misprints
- Is the coin silver? (Silver Bicentennial quarters look duller than clad ones)
- Consider having it graded by professionals
Tips
Starting your own coin collection? Here’s what to do:
- Learn the basics of grading and mint marks
- Begin with lower-cost coins before diving into rarities
- Buy from trusted sellers or dealers
- Visit coin shows to learn and network
- Be patient — valuable collections take time
Future
Rare coins are gaining attention in 2025 for several reasons:
- New generations are entering the hobby
- More people are discovering coins through online marketplaces
- Precious metals are rising in value
- America’s 250th anniversary is sparking interest in Bicentennial coins
The truth is, rare coins like dimes and Bicentennial quarters offer more than just monetary value. They tell stories, preserve history, and spark curiosity.
Whether you’re hunting for treasure in your pocket change or starting a serious collection, now is a great time to get involved in the world of coin collecting.
Who knows — the next million-dollar dime could be hiding in your coin jar.
FAQs
Which dime is worth $2 million?
The 1894-S Barber Dime, with only 9 known to exist.
Are Bicentennial quarters silver?
Some are. Look for 40% silver proof versions from 1976-S.
How do I check if my coin is rare?
Check the date, mint mark, condition, and for any errors.
What’s a mule coin?
A coin struck with mismatched dies, like a nickel/quarter combo.
Where can I get coins appraised?
Use PCGS, NGC, or visit a reputable coin dealer or show.
