Coins aren’t just a medium of exchange; they’re historical artifacts, collector’s items, and sometimes, outright treasures. Among the most remarkable are the 1894-S Barber Dime, the 1975 “No S” Proof Roosevelt Dime, and the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter struck on a gold planchet. These rare coins hold a combined market value of approximately $450 million and are celebrated for their rarity and history.
Barber
The 1894-S Barber Dime is a legendary piece in the world of numismatics. Produced in 1894 by the San Francisco Mint, only 24 coins were minted, most as proof coins. While the exact reason for this limited mintage remains uncertain, it’s widely believed these coins were struck to balance the mint’s financial records.
Today, just nine specimens of the 1894-S Barber Dime are known to exist. The rarity drives their market value, with one fetching $1.997 million at auction in 2016. Currently, experts estimate its value at $2 million, making it a dream find for collectors.
Roosevelt
In 1975, an unusual minting error resulted in the production of a small number of proof Roosevelt Dimes without the “S” mint mark from the San Francisco Mint. Known as the “No S” Proof Roosevelt Dime, this error has created one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
Only two examples of the 1975 “No S” Proof Dime are confirmed, and their scarcity makes them extremely desirable. In 2019, one of these coins sold for $456,000, while another fetched over $500,000 in 2023. They remain a fascinating case of how errors can turn everyday coins into treasures.
Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarters were a celebration of America’s 200th birthday, featuring a unique reverse design. However, a rare minting error resulted in a handful of these quarters being struck on gold planchets, instead of the usual copper-nickel composition.
This extraordinary mistake makes the Bicentennial gold quarter a numismatic masterpiece. In auctions, one such coin reportedly sold for a staggering $28 million, making it one of the most valuable coins ever produced.
Rare Coins
| Coin | Year | Mintage | Notable Sale Price | Estimated Current Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | 24 | $1.997 million | $2 million |
| 1975 “No S” Proof Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | 2 | $456,000 | $500,000 |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Gold) | 1976 | Unknown | $28 million | $28 million |
These three coins exemplify how errors, artistry, and history can make even small pieces of metal immensely valuable. Whether you’re an experienced collector or simply curious about rare finds, these coins are reminders that treasures sometimes lie in the most unexpected places.
FAQs
How many 1894-S Barber Dimes exist?
Only nine are known to exist today.
What is the 1975 “No S” Proof Dime?
It’s a proof dime missing the “S” mint mark, with only two examples confirmed.
Why is the Bicentennial gold quarter valuable?
It’s a rare mint error coin, with one selling for $28 million.
How much did the Barber Dime sell for in 2016?
It sold for $1.997 million at auction.
What is the value of the 1975 “No S” Proof Dime?
It is valued at approximately $500,000.
