Imagine discovering a tiny piece of history worth a fortune in your pocket change. Rare coins like the 1894-S Barber Dime and the 1916-D Mercury Dime are more than just old money; they’re prized possessions with fascinating stories and extraordinary value. Let’s cut into what makes these coins so special and how you can identify them.
Barber
The 1894-S Barber Dime is a true gem in the numismatic world. Struck in 1894 at the San Francisco Mint, only 24 coins were produced, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins ever minted.
Key Features
- Limited Mintage: Created as special gifts for bankers and Mint officials, only 24 dimes were minted.
- Surviving Count: Today, just nine examples are known to exist.
- Historical Significance: This coin reflects 19th-century minting practices and holds immense historical value.
Auction Records
One of these dimes sold for a jaw-dropping $1.99 million at auction. Coins in pristine condition have fetched over $2 million, making them treasures of unparalleled worth.
How to Identify It
- Date and Mint Mark: Look for the year 1894 and the “S” mint mark on the reverse side.
- Condition: While worn examples hold great value, mint-state coins command the highest prices.
Mercury
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another coveted rarity. As the first-year issue of the Mercury Dime series, it holds special significance for collectors.
Key Features
- Limited Production: Only 264,000 dimes were minted in Denver in 1916.
- First-Year Design: Created by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman, its debut adds to its allure.
- Rarity in High Grades: Finding this coin in near-mint condition is a challenge, amplifying its desirability.
Auction Records
A 1916-D Mercury Dime in top-grade condition has sold for more than $100,000. Even coins in average circulated condition can fetch several thousand dollars.
How to Identify It
- Date and Mint Mark: Look for the year 1916 and the “D” mint mark below the olive branch on the reverse.
- Wear and Tear: Due to its rarity, even heavily circulated examples remain valuable.
Rare Dimes
| Coin | Year | Mint | Mintage | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | San Francisco (S) | 24 | $1.99 million to $2+ million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Denver (D) | 264,000 | $5,000 to $100,000+ |
These rare dimes serve as reminders of how small, overlooked treasures can hold monumental value. If you ever find an old coin with an unusual date or mint mark, take a closer look—it might just be your lucky day.
FAQs
How rare is the 1894-S Barber Dime?
Only nine examples are known to exist today.
What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime special?
It’s a first-year issue with a low mintage of 264,000.
How much is a Barber Dime worth?
In pristine condition, it’s valued at over $2 million.
Where is the mint mark on the Mercury Dime?
The “D” mint mark is located below the olive branch on the reverse.
What’s the highest auction price for a 1916-D Mercury Dime?
A top-grade coin has sold for more than $100,000.
