Collecting rare coins is a fascinating hobby that can also be highly rewarding financially. Among the most coveted are pre-1965 silver dimes, some of which have fetched prices exceeding $100,000 at auctions. These dimes, composed of 90% silver, hold significant historical value and rarity, making them treasures for numismatists and investors alike.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins. Only 24 were minted, and today, only nine are known to exist. One of these dimes sold for $1.997 million in 2016. The coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a wreath encircling “ONE DIME” on the reverse. Its rarity and the mystery surrounding its limited mintage contribute to its immense value.
2. 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime (No Arrows)
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime without arrows is another highly sought-after coin. Minted in Carson City, its rarity is due to a limited production run and the subsequent melting of many coins. In high-grade conditions, this dime can command prices well over $100,000. The obverse depicts Lady Liberty seated, while the reverse shows a wreath surrounding the denomination.
3. 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime with Arrows
The 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime with arrows is notable for its scarcity and distinctive design. The arrows flanking the date indicate a change in the coin’s weight. With a mintage of only 10,817, it is extremely rare, especially in uncirculated condition. An example graded AU55 sold for $102,000, while a Mint State 62 coin fetched $216,000 at auction.
4. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the key date in the Mercury dime series. With a mintage of just 264,000, it is rare, particularly in higher grades. Uncirculated examples can exceed $100,000. The coin features the Winged Liberty Head on the obverse and a fasces with an olive branch on the reverse.
5. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Although minted after 1965, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is worth mentioning due to its extraordinary value. This proof coin lacks the “S” mintmark, making it one of only two known examples. One sold for $456,000 in 2019, and another fetched $506,250 in 2024. Its rarity stems from a mint error, and it features President Roosevelt’s profile on the obverse and a torch flanked by olive and oak branches on the reverse.
6. 1841 Seated Liberty Dime (No Drapery)
The 1841 Seated Liberty Dime without drapery is an exceptionally rare coin, with only two known examples. One sold for $205,625 in 2024. The obverse shows Lady Liberty seated without the extra drapery at her elbow, and the reverse displays a wreath encircling the denomination. Its rarity and unique design elements make it highly desirable among collectors.
Valuable Pre-1965 Silver Dimes
| Coin | Mintage | Notable Auction Price | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 24 | $1.997 million (2016) | One of the rarest U.S. coins, with only nine known survivors. |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime (No Arrows) | Limited | Over $100,000 | Rare due to limited production and melting of many coins. |
| 1874-CC Seated Liberty Dime with Arrows | 10,817 | $216,000 (MS62) | Extremely rare, especially in uncirculated condition; arrows indicate a weight change. |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 264,000 | Over $100,000 | Key date in the Mercury dime series; rare in higher grades. |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | Proof | $506,250 (2024) | One of only two known; lacks the “S” mintmark due to a mint error. |
| 1841 Seated Liberty Dime (No Drapery) | Very Limited | $205,625 (2024) | Exceptionally rare; only two known examples without drapery. |
FAQs
How can I determine if my silver dime is valuable?
To assess the value of your silver dime, consider its date, mintmark, condition, and rarity. Consulting a reputable coin grading service or numismatic expert can provide an accurate evaluation.
What is the significance of the arrows on some Seated Liberty dimes?
The arrows flanking the date on Seated Liberty dimes indicate a change in the coin’s weight. This design modification occurred in 1873 and 1874 to signify the adjustment.
Why are some dimes missing mintmarks, and how does this affect their value?
Missing mintmarks can result from mint errors, making such coins rare and often more valuable to collectors due to their uniqueness.
