American dimes have long fascinated collectors, not just for their face value but for their rarity, historical significance, and the staggering amounts they can fetch at auctions. Some of these tiny coins have sold for millions, making them prized possessions in the numismatic world.
Here’s a look at nine of the most expensive American dimes, collectively valued at over $15 million.
1894-S Barber Dime – $1.9 Million
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most legendary and valuable dimes in U.S. history. Only 24 were minted in San Francisco, making it an exceptionally rare find.
Historical accounts suggest that some of these dimes were given as gifts to the children of San Francisco Mint officials, adding to their mystique. In 2016, one of these dimes sold for $1.9 million, making it the most expensive dime ever sold.
Key Features:
- Minted in San Francisco (S Mintmark)
- Only 24 known to exist
- Sold for $1.9 million in 2016
1901-S Barber Dime – $1.3 Million
Another incredibly rare dime, the 1901-S Barber Dime, is one of the most sought-after coins by collectors. With an extremely low mintage of just 593,022, only a few well-preserved specimens exist today.
In a high-grade condition, this dime sold for $1.3 million, proving its value in the numismatic world.
Key Features:
- Minted in San Francisco
- Extremely limited mintage
- Sold for $1.3 million
1916-D Mercury Dime – $100,000
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most famous dimes ever minted. Featuring Liberty in a winged cap, this coin is popular for its striking design and rarity.
With a mintage of just 264,000, it’s the lowest among Mercury Dimes. Well-preserved examples can sell for up to $100,000 at auction.
Key Features:
- Features Liberty with a winged cap
- Lowest mintage of all Mercury Dimes
- Can sell for up to $100,000
1942/1 Mercury Dime – $50,000
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is an error coin that resulted from an overdate, where the “1” from 1941 is visible beneath the “2” in 1942. This production mistake makes it one of the most intriguing and valuable dimes for collectors.
Depending on its condition, a well-preserved 1942/1 Mercury Dime can sell for $50,000 or more.
Key Features:
- Overdate error (1941 visible under 1942)
- Highly sought after by collectors
- Valued at around $50,000
1937-D Mercury Dime – $20,000
The 1937-D Mercury Dime, minted in Denver, is another rare and valuable collectible. Though it had a larger mintage than some of the other dimes on this list, well-preserved specimens can sell for over $20,000.
Key Features:
- Limited mintage adds to its rarity
- Features the classic Mercury Dime design
- Valued at $20,000+
1945 Micro S Mercury Dime – $10,000
The 1945 Micro S Mercury Dime is unique because of its tiny “S” mintmark, which is significantly smaller than the usual size. This variation occurred during production, making it a rare collector’s item.
A well-preserved example can fetch $10,000 or more, depending on its condition.
Key Features:
- Unique small mintmark variation
- Highly sought after among collectors
- Valued at around $10,000
1936 Mercury Dime – $5,000
The 1936 Mercury Dime may not be as rare as some of the others on this list, but it remains a historically significant piece. Its popularity stems from its beautiful design and connection to the Great Depression era.
A high-quality specimen can sell for up to $5,000 at auction.
Key Features:
- Features classic Mercury Dime design
- Valued at around $5,000
- Popular among collectors
1943 Dime – $3,000
The 1943 Dime holds a special place in history due to its wartime composition. During World War II, the U.S. Mint made adjustments to coin production to conserve strategic metals, leading to unique minting variations.
A well-preserved 1943 Dime can be worth up to $3,000.
Key Features:
- Unique wartime composition
- Sought after by collectors
- Valued at $3,000
1926-D Mercury Dime – $2,000
The 1926-D Mercury Dime, minted in Denver, is another valuable piece due to its low mintage of 6,828,000 coins. While not the rarest dime, it remains a favorite among collectors.
A well-preserved 1926-D Mercury Dime can sell for around $2,000.
Key Features:
- Limited mintage increases value
- Features classic Mercury Dime design
- Valued at $2,000
Summary of the Most Expensive Dimes
| Year | Coin | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1894 | 1894-S Barber Dime | $1.9 million |
| 1901 | 1901-S Barber Dime | $1.3 million |
| 1916 | 1916-D Mercury Dime | $100,000 |
| 1942 | 1942/1 Mercury Dime | $50,000 |
| 1937 | 1937-D Mercury Dime | $20,000 |
| 1945 | 1945 Micro S Mercury Dime | $10,000 |
| 1936 | 1936 Mercury Dime | $5,000 |
| 1943 | 1943 Dime | $3,000 |
| 1926 | 1926-D Mercury Dime | $2,000 |
Rare dimes continue to captivate collectors worldwide, with some commanding prices well into the millions. Whether due to their low mintage, unique errors, or historical significance, these dimes prove that even the smallest coin can hold immense value.
FAQs
What is the most expensive dime ever sold?
The 1894-S Barber Dime holds the record, selling for $1.9 million in 2016.
Why are some dimes so valuable?
Dimes become valuable due to low mintage, historical significance, minting errors, and collector demand.
What is the rarest Mercury Dime?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the rarest in the series due to its low mintage of 264,000.
How do I know if I have a valuable dime?
Check the mint year, mintmark, condition, and potential errors. If unsure, consult a professional numismatist.
