That dusty jar of coins sitting on your dresser might be more valuable than you think. While most of us see loose change as something to ignore or trade in for coffee money, some rare dimes and quarters are worth thousands or even millions of dollars. With a little knowledge and attention to detail, you could uncover a fortune in plain sight.
Here’s a look at 10 valuable dimes and quarters that have made collectors go wild—and some are still believed to be in circulation today.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime – A Numismatic Legend
With only 24 minted and fewer than 10 known to exist, the 1894-S Barber Dime is considered one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. One was reportedly used by a Mint official’s daughter to buy ice cream—today, it would’ve bought a mansion.
- Estimated Value: Over $2 million
- What to Look For: 1894 date with “S” mint mark and Barber design
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime – First-Year Rarity
This dime marked the debut of the Mercury design and was produced in extremely limited numbers at the Denver Mint—just 264,000 coins.
- Estimated Value: $20,000 to $300,000 depending on condition
- What to Look For: “1916” date with a tiny “D” mintmark under the date
3. 1942/1 Mercury Dime – The Overdate Error
One of the most well-known minting mistakes, this 1942/1 overdate was created when a 1942 die was struck over a 1941 die. The faint “1” under the “2” makes this coin highly collectible.
- Estimated Value: $10,000 to $60,000+
- What to Look For: A clear doubling in the year “1942”
4. 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime – Modern Day Mega Rarity
Only two known examples of the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime exist. These were proof coins struck at the San Francisco Mint but were missing the “S” mintmark.
- Last Sale Price: $456,000
- Estimated Value: Could exceed $1 million if sold today
- What to Look For: 1975 Roosevelt dime with no mintmark in a proof set
5. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime – A Modern Treasure
Not quite as rare as its 1975 counterpart, but still a major find, the 1968 No-S Proof Dime is another missing mintmark proof error that slipped into public hands.
- Estimated Value: $10,000 to $25,000
- What to Look For: 1968 proof dime with no “S” mintmark
6. 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Proof Quarter – Collector Favorite
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter featuring the famous drummer boy reverse has a silver-proof version made of 40% silver, sold only in special sets.
- Estimated Value: $100 to $300 in top condition
- What to Look For: “S” mintmark and silver coloring in proof sets
7. 1976 Quarter Struck on Dime Planchet – Mint Error Goldmine
Some Bicentennial quarters were mistakenly struck on dime-sized planchets. These smaller, lighter coins are rare errors and have become collector gold.
- Estimated Value: $3,000 to $10,000
- What to Look For: Quarter design on a smaller-than-usual coin
8. 1976-D Doubled Die Quarter – A Small Mistake, Big Value
A few Denver-minted Bicentennial quarters show doubling in the obverse design, especially in the date and inscriptions.
- Estimated Value: $500 to $2,000
- What to Look For: Doubling in “1976” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”
9. 1976 Aluminum Bicentennial Quarter – The Secret Prototype
Rumored to be part of an experimental run using aluminum for cost-cutting, this never-released test coin is the stuff of legend. If one exists and can be legally owned, it could rewrite numismatic history.
- Estimated Value: Over $2 million (if legally available)
- What to Look For: An unusually lightweight 1976 quarter with a silvery matte appearance
10. 1965 Transitional Error Quarter – A Coin Caught Between Eras
Though the Mint transitioned to clad coinage in 1965, a few silver planchets remained and were used in error. A 1965 quarter struck on a silver planchet is one of the most valuable modern coin errors.
- Estimated Value: $5,000 to $10,000+
- What to Look For: A 1965 quarter that doesn’t stick to a magnet and has a silver “ring” when dropped
Why These Coins Matter
These coins are more than just money—they are artifacts of American history, examples of human error, and opportunities for unexpected fortune. While the total combined value of these ten coins could reach $75 million at auction depending on condition and rarity, their real worth lies in what they represent: the chance that anyone, anywhere, could discover one.
You don’t need to be a professional collector to find them. Some have been discovered in pocket change, old bank rolls, inherited collections, and even flea markets. All it takes is a keen eye, some basic knowledge, and a little luck.
Tips for Identifying and Preserving Rare Coins
- Use a magnifying glass to inspect dates and mintmarks
- Avoid cleaning coins—this can reduce their value dramatically
- Store coins in acid-free holders or flips
- Handle by the edges to avoid oils and damage
- Get professional authentication from PCGS or NGC for valuable finds
Final Thoughts
Before you dump that coin jar into a machine or toss a few quarters in the parking meter, take a closer look. One of the 10 rare dimes or quarters hiding in plain sight might just be your gateway to a once-in-a-lifetime discovery. In the world of coins, even a simple dime could be worth millions—you just need to know what to look for.