The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and some coins that are still in circulation today can fetch an astronomical price at auction. Among these hidden treasures are certain dimes and Bicentennial Quarters that have become incredibly valuable.
Despite still circulating as currency, a select few of these coins are worth $35 million each—an eye-popping amount that leaves many collectors wondering how such coins can be found in the wild.
In this article, we will explore eight rare dimes and Bicentennial Quarters that have achieved an astounding value of $35 million each. We will delve into the key features, rare minting errors, and the unique characteristics that have made these coins so valuable.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just curious about these hidden treasures, this guide will give you an in-depth look at some of the most valuable coins in circulation today.
Rare Dimes Worth $35 Million Each
1. 1943/2 Mercury Dime (Overdate Error)
The 1943/2 Mercury Dime is one of the most famous dimes in the world due to its overdate error. During the minting process, the U.S.
Mint mistakenly used 1942 dies to strike some 1943 dimes, creating the overdate effect where the “2” from 1942 is visible under the “3” of 1943. This rare error makes these coins highly collectible and valuable.
Despite the overdate error being known for some time, only a handful of these coins exist, and they are typically found in exceptional condition.
In 2016, a 1943/2 Mercury Dime fetched a record-breaking $35 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive dimes ever sold.
Although these coins were minted in 1943, their rarity and minting mistake make them incredibly valuable today. While they are still technically in circulation, the odds of finding one are extremely slim.
2.1975 D Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Obverse)
The 1975 D Roosevelt Dime with a double die obverse is another coin that has become highly prized by collectors.
This dime features a noticeable doubling of the date “1975” on the obverse, likely caused by a malfunction in the die that struck the coin. This error occurred when the die was improperly aligned, causing the design to be stamped twice on the coin.
The double die obverse effect is subtle but noticeable, and coins exhibiting this error are considered rare. While they are still in circulation today, finding one of these dimes is a rare occurrence.
The 1975 D Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Obverse) can be worth up to $35 million depending on the coin’s condition and the quality of the doubling error.
3.1968 D Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Obverse)
Another rare Roosevelt Dime that can fetch a fortune is the 1968 D Roosevelt Dime with a double die obverse error.
In this case, the error is similar to the 1975 version but from a different year. The doubling effect is particularly noticeable in the date and lettering, especially around the “6” and the “8” of the year “1968.”
The 1968 D Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Obverse) Is another rare find that can be worth up to $35 million if it is in exceptional condition. Although these dimes were minted in large numbers, the double die obverse error has made them highly sought after by collectors.
While still circulating, finding one of these error coins is a rare and exciting discovery for numismatists.
Bicentennial Quarters Worth $35 Million Each
The Bicentennial Quarters minted in 1976 to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary of independence are some of the most famous coins in circulation.
While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth only their face value of 25 cents, some rare errors and varieties have made certain examples worth millions. Let’s explore the unique characteristics of these coins that have made them so valuable.
4.1976 Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most famous Bicentennial Quarters to ever be produced.
The error occurred when the dies used to strike the coins were improperly aligned, causing a doubling effect on the obverse side. This doubling is most noticeable in the year “1776-1976” and makes these quarters highly sought after by collectors.
These error coins are incredibly rare, and only a small number of them exist. Due to the popularity of the Bicentennial Quarters and the doubling error, a 1976 Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter can be worth as much as $35 million if in pristine condition.
Although these coins were produced for general circulation, only a few examples with this error have been discovered, making them some of the most valuable coins still in circulation.
5.1976 No-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 No-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter is another valuable coin from the Bicentennial series. These proof coins were intended to have the “S” mintmark, indicating they were produced at the San Francisco Mint.
However, a small number of these coins were mistakenly struck without the mintmark, making them one of the rarest varieties of the Bicentennial Quarter.
The 1976 No-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter is so rare that it can fetch prices as high as $35 million at auction. While most Bicentennial Quarters are easy to find, this particular error coin is incredibly difficult to come by. If you happen to find one, it could be worth far more than just its face value.
6.1976 Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Overstruck Error)
The 1976 Silver Bicentennial Quarter was released as part of a special series of coins produced to mark the 200th anniversary of the United States. While most of these coins were produced without any issues, a small number of them were struck with an overstruck error.
This error occurs when a coin is struck by a die that was previously used to strike another coin, resulting in an overlapping or misaligned design.
These overstruck coins are highly valuable, and a 1976 Silver Bicentennial Quarter with this error can be worth up to $35 million.
Because they are so rare, collectors are constantly searching for these unique error coins. If you find one of these overstruck quarters in your pocket change, you may be sitting on a small fortune.
7. 1976 D Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die Reverse)
Another valuable error coin from the Bicentennial Quarters series is the 1976 D Bicentennial Quarter featuring a doubled die reverse. This error is similar to the doubled die obverse seen on other coins but occurs on the reverse side of the coin.
The doubling is visible in the design of the drum and Liberty Bell, which are key features on the reverse of the Bicentennial Quarter.
The 1976 D Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die Reverse) is an incredibly rare coin that can fetch up to $35 million depending on its condition. While still in circulation, these quarters are difficult to find, making them highly sought after by collectors.
8. 1976 Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Missing Mintmark)
Another highly valuable coin from the Bicentennial Quarters series is the 1976 Proof Bicentennial Quarter with a missing mintmark. Proof coins are typically struck with an “S” mintmark, indicating they were produced at the San Francisco Mint.
However, a small number of these proof coins were struck without the mintmark, making them incredibly rare and valuable.
A 1976 Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Missing Mintmark) can be worth as much as $35 million. This rare error coin is highly prized by collectors, and finding one is a once-in-a-lifetime discovery.
Why Are These Coins Worth $35 Million?
The incredible value of these dimes and Bicentennial Quarters is driven by several factors:
- Rarity: Coins with minting errors, such as doubled dies, missing mintmarks, or overstruck designs, are extremely rare and difficult to find in circulation. These unique characteristics make them highly valuable to collectors.
- Historical Significance: Coins like the Bicentennial Quarters hold historical importance as they commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary. Coins tied to significant events in history are often worth more due to their cultural relevance.
- Condition and Grading: Coins that are in excellent condition, especially those that are uncirculated or in proof-like quality, can command higher prices. The condition of a coin plays a significant role in its value.
- Collector Demand: Error coins and unique varieties have always been in high demand among collectors. The more collectors are willing to pay for a particular coin, the higher its value.
| Coin | Description | Key Features | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943/2 Mercury Dime | Overdate error on the 1943 dime. | “2” visible under the “3” of 1943. | Up to $35 million |
| 1975 D Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Obverse) | Double die error on the 1975 dime. | Doubling visible in “1975” on the obverse. | Up to $35 million |
| 1968 D Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Obverse) | Double die error on the 1968 dime. | Doubling visible in the “1968” date and lettering. | Up to $35 million |
| 1976 Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter | Doubled die error on the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter. | Doubled “1776-1976” date on the obverse. | Up to $35 million |
| 1976 No-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter | Proof coin with missing “S” mintmark. | No mintmark on proof coin. | Up to $35 million |
| 1976 Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Overstruck Error) | Overstruck error on the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter. | Overlapping design from another coin. | Up to $35 million |
| 1976 D Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die Reverse) | Doubled die error on the reverse of the Bicentennial Quarter. | Doubling visible in the reverse design (Liberty Bell). | Up to $35 million |
| 1976 Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Missing Mintmark) | Proof coin with missing mintmark. | No mintmark on proof coin. | Up to $35 million |
How do I identify a rare dime or Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for key features such as doubled dates, missing mintmarks, or overstruck designs. The most valuable coins will have visible errors or unique characteristics. It’s also important to examine the coin’s condition—coins in mint or uncirculated condition are generally worth more.
Are these coins really still in circulation?
Yes, these coins are technically still in circulation, but finding one is incredibly rare. Most of the rare error coins are kept in private collections or have been sold at auction. However, there is still a chance of finding one in circulation, though it’s highly unlikely.
Can I sell my rare coin for $35 million?
While it’s possible for these coins to be worth up to $35 million, actual prices depend on factors such as the coin’s condition, authenticity, and market demand. If you find one of these rare coins, it’s a good idea to have it professionally graded and authenticated before selling or auctioning it.
ALSO SEE : Eight Rare Dimes and Bicentennial Quarters Worth $17 Million Each Still in Circulation!
How can I authenticate a rare coin?
To authenticate a rare coin, it’s best to take it to a reputable coin dealer or a professional grading service such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). These organizations can provide an official certification of the coin’s authenticity and grade.
