Silver dimes minted before 1965 are treasures of American history, made from 90% silver and admired for their beauty and craftsmanship. While many silver dimes hold intrinsic value due to their silver content, a select few are worth astronomical sums due to their rarity, condition, and historical significance. Here are six of the most valuable pre-1965 silver dimes to watch out for.
1796 Draped Bust Dime
The 1796 Draped Bust Dime is one of the earliest dimes struck by the U.S. Mint, making it a historic and highly collectible coin.
Key Details:
- Mintage: 22,135.
- Auction Price: Over $100,000 in top condition.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its low mintage and status as one of the first U.S. dimes make it highly desirable.
Collectors prize this coin for its historical importance and its role in the early days of American coinage.
1894-S Barber Dime
Often regarded as one of the rarest and most famous coins in U.S. history, the 1894-S Barber Dime has an air of mystery and exclusivity.
Key Details:
- Mintage: 24.
- Auction Price: Over $1,000,000 in pristine condition.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its low mintage and intriguing backstory make it a coveted item for elite collectors.
Legend has it that these coins were minted as special gifts or for accounting purposes, adding to their allure.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a key date in the Mercury Dime series and one of the most sought-after coins in the series.
Key Details:
- Mintage: 264,000.
- Auction Price: Over $150,000 in high-grade condition.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its low mintage and iconic design contribute to its legendary status.
This dime is a centerpiece in any serious Mercury Dime collection.
1942/41 Mercury Dime
The 1942/41 Mercury Dime is a famous error coin resulting from a die being struck with two different dates.
Key Details:
- Mintage: Unknown.
- Auction Price: Over $100,000 for well-preserved examples.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its dramatic error and scarcity make it a collector’s favorite.
This error coin captures the fascination of collectors due to its unique production story.
1859 Liberty Seated Dime
The 1859 Liberty Seated Dime is particularly rare in proof condition, making it a sought-after coin among advanced collectors.
Key Details:
- Mintage: 800 proofs.
- Auction Price: Over $120,000 in pristine condition.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its limited mintage and iconic design place it among the rarest U.S. coins.
This dime showcases the artistic brilliance of early American coinage.
1938-S Mercury Dime
The 1938-S Mercury Dime, while less dramatic than others on this list, is valued for its low mintage and scarcity in high grades.
Key Details:
- Mintage: 8,090,000.
- Auction Price: Over $100,000 in top condition.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its low population in mint state makes it a desirable addition to any collection.
This coin is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mercury Dime series.
| Coin Name | Year | Mintage | Auction Price (High Grade) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draped Bust Dime | 1796 | 22,135 | Over $100,000 | First U.S. dime |
| Barber Dime | 1894-S | 24 | Over $1,000,000 | Unique backstory |
| Mercury Dime | 1916-D | 264,000 | Over $150,000 | Key date, low mintage |
| Mercury Dime | 1942/41 | Unknown | Over $100,000 | Rare error coin |
| Liberty Seated Dime | 1859 | 800 proofs | Over $120,000 | Limited proof mintage |
| Mercury Dime | 1938-S | 8,090,000 | Over $100,000 | Low population in high grades |
The Allure of Rare Silver Dimes
These extraordinary coins showcase the artistry and history of American coinage. From the 1796 Draped Bust Dime to the 1942/41 Mercury Dime, each coin tells a unique story and holds immense value for collectors. If you’re lucky enough to stumble upon one, you could be holding a piece of history worth a fortune.
FAQs
What is the rarest pre-1965 silver dime?
The 1894-S Barber Dime, with only 24 minted, is the rarest.
How much is a 1796 Draped Bust Dime worth?
Pristine examples can fetch over $100,000.
What makes the 1942/41 Mercury Dime special?
It features a rare error with two dates struck on the die.
Why is the 1916-D Mercury Dime valuable?
Its low mintage of 264,000 makes it a key date in the series.
How can I identify a valuable silver dime?
Look for key dates, mint marks, and unique features like errors or low mintage.
