What Rare Dimes Are Worth Money? Plus, What They Sell For

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The dime might be the smallest U.S. coin, but certain ones can be worth several thousand dollars to millions! In this article, we’ll go over the most expensive dimes ever sold and what they’re valued at, what more common dimes like the Mercury and Roosevelt dimes are valued at, and what makes dimes worth more than $0.10. We also spoke with numismatics expert Dean Kinzer for advice on how to find and sell dimes, and how to start collecting them. Additionally, we'll provide you with a rare dime value calculator to see what your coins may be worth.

The Rarest Dimes Worth Big Money

  • 1873 CC (No Arrows) Seated Liberty Dime: $3,600,000
  • 1894 S Barber Dime: $2,160,000
  • 1796 Draped Bust Dime: $881,250
  • 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime: $632,500
  • 1873 CC (Arrows) Seated Liberty Dime: $552,000
  • 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime: $506,250
Section 1 of 5:

The Most Expensive Rare Dimes Ever Sold

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  1. Step 1 1873 CC (No Arrows) Seated Liberty Dime: $3,600,000
    This is the rarest dime, as only one coin is known today. The 1873 dime features the Seated Liberty design and was minted in Carson City, Nevada, which only produced around 12,000 of these coins. Its unique feature is that it does not have 2 arrowheads around the date, which were added to most dimes in this series to increase the weight of the coins. Coins that didn’t get the arrowheads were melted down for their silver, which makes this dime very rare![1] It’s no surprise that it sold for $3.6 million in 2023.[2]
    • Estimated value: $2,400,000 (in the best condition)
  2. Step 2 1894 S Barber Dime: $2,160,000
    Barber dimes were produced from 1892 to 1816, featuring a simplistic image of Lady Liberty’s face designed by Charles Barber. The 1894 Barber dimes minted in San Francisco are some of the rarest dimes, as only 24 were produced. Only 10 are known about today, and most are proofs, or coins minted in higher quality specifically for collecting.[3] One of these rare dimes sold for $2.1 million in 2025.[4]
    • Estimated value: $2,600,000
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  3. Step 3 1796 Draped Bust Dime: $881,250
    The first dimes were minted in 1796, making coins from this year quite rare and valuable. The 1796 dime was minted in Philadelphia, with only about 22,000 produced. It features the bust of Lady Liberty with drapery over her chest and shoulders. 1796 dimes can go for quite a bit of money when they’re in pristine condition, with one such coin selling for $881k in 2014.[5]
    • Estimated value: $1,150,000
  4. Step 4 1804 14 Star Reverse Draped Bust Dime: $632,500
    Only around 8,000 1804 Draped Bust Dimes were produced at the Philadelphia minting facility, making them quite rare. These dimes are also unique because they’re the result of a major minting error: the back sides of these dimes feature 14 stars when they’re only meant to have 13 (representing the 13 original states). For that reason, one of these coins sold for $632k in 2008.[6]
    • Estimated value: $800,000
  5. Step 5 1873 CC (Arrows) Seated Liberty Dime: $552,000
    The 1873 Seated Liberty dimes produced in Carson City that do have arrowheads between the date are also considered pretty rare and valuable. Only about 12,000 were made, and most known coins are in poor condition. Any coins in excellent or pristine condition can sell for a lot, with one selling for $552k in 2022.[7]
    • Estimated value: $290,000
  6. Step 6 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime: $506,250
    Roosevelt dimes are the modern-day dimes, which have been produced since 1946 and feature the profile of former president Franklin Delano Roosevelt. While most Roosevelt dimes aren’t considered very rare or exceptionally valuable, the 1975 No S coin is an exception. This dime was minted in San Francisco but is missing the “S” mint mark on the coin that designates its minting location. Only 2 known coins feature this unique minting error, with one selling for $506k in 2024.[8]
    • Estimated value: $550,000
  7. Step 7 1872 CC Seated Liberty Dime: $480,000
    The 1872 Seated Liberty dimes minted in Carson City are considered pretty rare, as only around 35,000 were created. There aren’t many known dimes in excellent or pristine condition, making these coins especially valuable. One such dime sold for $480k in 2022.[9]
    • Estimated value: $600,000
  8. Step 8 1822 Capped Bust Dime: $440,625
    The Capped Bust dime design features Lady Liberty wearing a cap inscribed with “LIBERTY.” The exact mintage number for these dimes is unknown, but they’re considered very scarce in the collecting world. 1822 dimes in great condition can sell for a lot, with one going for $440k in 2014.[10]
    • Estimated value: $167,500
  9. Step 9 1797 13 Stars Draped Bust Dime: $402,500
    Dimes produced in 1797 are considered very valuable, as they’re only the second year these coins were ever minted. The 13-star design is quite rare, as only around 5,000 dimes were minted in Philadelphia. This design features 13 stars encircling the bust of Lady Liberty, representing the 13 original states. A coin in excellent condition sold for $402k in 2008.[11]
    • Estimated value: $535,000
  10. Step 10 1938 S Mercury Dime: $364,250
    Mercury dimes were minted between 1916 and 1945. Despite the name, the dime doesn’t depict the Roman god Mercury, but rather the profile of Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap. Around 8,000,000 dimes were produced this year in San Francisco, but very exceptional pieces can sell for a small fortune.[12] For instance, a pristine dime sold for $364k in 2019.[13]
    • Estimated value: The $364k price tag is rare, as 1938 S Mercury dimes are valued at around $7,000. There are plenty of older Mercury dimes that are valued for much more, which we’ll discuss in the section below!
  11. Step 11 1800 Draped Bust Dime: $353,500
    It’s unclear how many 1800 Draped Bust dimes were actually minted in Philadelphia, as it’s believed that most were actually delivered in 1801. Regardless, these dimes are considered very rare, especially uncirculated ones, which were never used to buy or sell goods, and ones in pristine condition.[14] An 1800 Draped Bust dime sold for $352k in 2014.[15]
    • Estimated value: $455,000
  12. Step 12 1803 Draped Bust Dime: $322,000
    Only around 33,000 Draped Bust dimes from 1803 were minted in Philadelphia. Since these dimes are over 200 years old, coins in pristine condition are exceptionally rare and fetch a large sum. For example, an excellent quality dime sold for $322k in 2008.[16]
    • Estimated value: $235,000
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Section 2 of 5:

Valuable Mercury & Roosevelt Dimes

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  1. Step 1 Mercury Dimes
    There are plenty of valuable Mercury dimes, which were minted from 1916 to 1945, that can sell for several hundred dollars to thousands. Generally, dimes that were produced in the early 1900s and in scarce numbers at unique minting facilities, like the Denver (“D”) and San Francisco (“S”) locations, sell for the most.[17]
    • Check out these dimes and what they’re valued at:
      • 1916 D: $1,500 to $300,000 (poorest to best condition)
      • 1918 S: $185 to $200,000
      • 1918 D: $175 to $200,000
      • 1919 S: $475 to $185,000
      • 1919 D: $425 to $135,000
      • 1920 D: $275 to $100,000
      • 1920 S: $325 to $115,000
      • 1923 S: $325 to $120,000
      • 1935 S: $50 to $110,000
  2. Step 2 Roosevelt Dimes
    While Roosevelt dimes aren’t usually as valuable as older dimes, since these coins have only been made since 1946, there are still some pieces that can fetch a high price. In general, coins made before 1965 are more valuable, as they were made with 90% silver. There are also several rare coins with missing mint marks (which designates their minting location) that can sell for a lot.
    • Check out these dimes and what they’re valued at:
      • 1947 S: $4 to $10,000 (poorest to best condition)[18]
      • 1949: $8 to $12,000[19]
      • 1965 No “P” Mint Mark: $2 to $1,000+
      • 1968 No “S” Mint Mark: $11,000 to 40,000[20]
      • 1968 S: $4 to $13,500[21]
      • 1970 No “S” Mint Mark: $675 to $1,650+[22]
      • 1972 S: $4 to $12,000[23]
      • 1982 No “P” Mint Mark: $240 to $1,300[24]
      • 1983 No “S” Mint Mark: $625 to $7,000[25]
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Section 3 of 5:

What makes a dime valuable?

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  1. Step 1 Rarity
    For the most part, if a dime is harder to find by collectors, it’s considered more valuable. This includes dimes that were minted in small numbers, like the 1873 Carson City Seated Liberty Dimes, and dimes that have unique features and minting errors, like the 1975 No “S” Roosevelt Dime.[26]
  2. Step 2 Condition
    All dimes are graded on their condition, which greatly affects their value. In general, uncirculated dimes that were never used to buy or sell goods and proof dimes, which are dimes minted in higher quality for collecting, are considered the most valuable. However, dimes that were circulated can be very valuable if they’re not overly worn or damaged.[27]
    • All dimes and coins are graded using the following scale:
      • 70: No post-production imperfections at 5x magnification
      • 69-65: Great mint strike (very defined) with very slight imperfections
      • 64-60: Average mint strike with some small, noticeable imperfections
      • 59-55: Average mint strike with slight wear
      • 54-35: Fully detailed but significant wear
      • 34 and below: Not completely detailed with significant wear
  3. Step 3 Age
    While an older dime isn’t automatically more valuable than a newer one, age can increase a coin’s value. Lots of dimes made prior to the early 1900s are difficult to find, whether they weren’t made in large numbers or they’re simply lost. And since they’re so old, there aren’t usually many known pieces in pristine condition.[28]
  4. Step 4 Minting location
    Where a dime was minted can increase its value, as some minting locations produced fewer dimes than others, making them more rare. For instance, coins minted in Carson City (“CC” mint mark), San Francisco (“S” mint mark), New Orleans (“O” mint mark), and Denver (“D” mint mark) tend to be more valuable that dimes minted in Philadelphia, which produces the most dimes.[29]
    • Coins minted in Philadelphia either have no mint mark or have a “P” mint mark.
  5. Step 5 Minting errors
    Most coin collectors consider dimes more valuable if they have unique minting errors, which occurred during production. This includes dimes missing their mint marks, receiving the wrong design for their year, being stamped off center, and being minted with the wrong metal composition.[30]
    • Errors are only considered valuable if they happened when the dime was being minted. Wear and damage from being used do not generally add to a coin’s value.
  6. Step 6 Metal content
    Before 1965, dimes were made mostly out of silver (usually 90% silver and 10% copper), which is considered a rare and precious metal. Dimes made after 1965 are composed of nickel and copper, which are less expensive than silver. So, dimes that have silver in them are generally more valuable than non-silver dimes.[31]
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Section 4 of 5:

How to Find and Sell Valuable Dimes

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  1. 1
    Check dimes for their mint year, location, and condition, and any errors. If you’re interested in getting your hands on a rare and valuable dime, search your own collection! Or, go to the bank and get out several rolls of dimes from your account. Closely inspect the dimes for any signs they may be valuable, like:
    • Mint year: Find the date on the face side of the coin. Older coins may be more valuable than newer ones.
    • Minting location: Look for a small, single letter on either side of the coin—you may see “P,” “S,” “D,” “CC,” or “O.” If there’s no mint mark, the coin is likely minted in Philadelphia, but it could be a valuable error.
    • Condition: Look at how well the design is imprinted on the coin and if it’s still sharp and detailed. Also, check for any cracks, fading, and other signs of wear. Dimes that are in better condition are typically more valuable.
    • Minting errors: Check for any unique features on the coin that may have been due to a minting error, like an off-centered design and missing ridges. Minting errors like these can be very valuable.
  2. 2
    Use a price guide to see how much your dime is worth. According to Kinzer, you can look up any U.S. coin’s value using a price guide, such as A Guide Book of United States Coins (aka The Red Book). Reputable coin appraisal websites like PCGS and NGC provide price guides online, too.[32]
    • You can also get your dimes professionally appraised at an auction house like Heritage Auctions, says Kinzer.[33]
    • You might also find numismatics experts and coin collectors at coin shops and trade shows that offer appraisals, too.
  3. 3
    Get your dimes professionally graded. If you found a valuable dime that you want to sell, it’s best practice to get it professionally graded so you know what condition it is truly in. Kinzer recommends getting your coins graded at a reputable company like NGC or ANACS.[34]
  4. 4
    Sell your dimes at a coin shop, auction house, or online. There are plenty of places to sell your dimes. You can take them to a local coin shop near you or consign them to an auction house, says Kinzer. If there are any nearby trade shows, you can sell them there, too. An online market like eBay is also an option, says Kinzer, but he doesn’t typically recommend it for beginner sellers.[36]
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Section 5 of 5:

How to Collect Valuable Dimes

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  1. Buy and collect rare dimes at coin shops, trade shows, and auctions. If you want to start collecting rare and valuable dimes, Kinzer says it’s all about networking and forming relationships with dealers. He suggests joining online groups on Facebook to learn more about coins and where to find valuable ones. Then, make yourself known in the community by going to auctions, trade shows, and traveling to shops. According to him, you often hear about valuable coins through the collector grapevine![37]
    • Make sure to store your dimes properly. Most collectors store each coin separately in a coin book so the coins don’t get scratched and they can admire them easily. Keep your coins in a cool, dry place to prevent damage, too.
    • Handle your dimes carefully. Kinzer explains that the oil from your fingers can tarnish the metal and decrease their value. Aim to wear gloves when holding your coins, or only touch them from the very edges.[38]

Rare Dime Value Calculator

  1. Find out if your dime is worth more than 10 cents!
    Some dimes are worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars—if you know what to look for. From rare mint years to collectible errors and silver content, a dime’s tiny details can pack big value. Based on your answers below, we’ll estimate how much your dime might be worth.
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/seated-liberty-dimes-1837-1891/14661/1873-cc-no-arrows-10c-ms/
  2. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/item/1873-cc-10c-no-arrows/4661/-4696731943131266696
  3. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/barber-dimes-1892-1916/14805/1894-s-10c-pf/
  4. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1894-s-pr/4805
  5. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/early-dimes-1796-1837/14461/1796-10c-ms/
  6. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1804-14-star-reverse-ms/4475
  7. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1873-cc-arrows-ms/538326
  8. ↑ https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rare-dime-hidden-decades-ohio-sells-506250-auction/
  9. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/item/1872-cc-10c/4657/-2134316083154079995
  1. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1822-pr/84540
  2. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1797-13-stars-ms/4463
  3. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/mercury-dimes-1916-1945/
  4. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1938-s-ms/5015
  5. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/early-dimes-1796-1837/14470/1800-10c-ms/
  6. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1800-ms/4470
  7. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/auctionprices/details/1803-ms/4473
  8. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/prices/detail/mercury-dime/703/most-active
  9. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/prices/detail/roosevelt-dime/98/most-active/ms
  10. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/prices/detail/roosevelt-dime/98/most-active/ms
  11. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/roosevelt-dimes-1946-date/15245/1968-no-s-10c-pf/
  12. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/prices/detail/roosevelt-dime/98/most-active/pr
  13. ↑ http://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/roosevelt-dimes-1946-date/15248/1970-no-s-10c-pf/
  14. ↑ https://www.pcgs.com/prices/detail/roosevelt-dime/98/most-active/pr
  15. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/roosevelt-dimes-1946-date/78684/1982-no-p-10c-ms/
  16. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/roosevelt-dimes-1946-date/65378/1983-no-s-10c-pf/
  17. ↑ https://www.money.org/what-gives-coins-value-video/
  18. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-grading/grading-scale/
  19. ↑ https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/early-dimes-1796-1837/
  20. ↑ https://blog.money.org/coin-collecting/5-factors-influence-coin-values
  21. ↑ https://coin-identifier.com/blog/coins-overview/most-valuable-dimes
  22. ↑ https://kids.usmint.gov/coins-life/coin-composition
  23. ↑ Dean Kinzer. Numismatics Expert. Expert Interview
  24. ↑ Dean Kinzer. Numismatics Expert. Expert Interview
  25. ↑ Dean Kinzer. Numismatics Expert. Expert Interview
  26. ↑ Dean Kinzer. Numismatics Expert. Expert Interview
  27. ↑ Dean Kinzer. Numismatics Expert. Expert Interview
  28. ↑ Dean Kinzer. Numismatics Expert. Expert Interview
  29. ↑ Dean Kinzer. Numismatics Expert. Expert Interview

About This Article

Dean Kinzer
Co-authored by:
Dean Kinzer
Numismatics Expert
This article was co-authored by Dean Kinzer and by wikiHow staff writer, Devin McSween. Dean Kinzer is a Numismatics Expert. He is a specialist in ancient coins and is the founder of Kinzer Coins, a rare ancient coin dealership and educational coin resource hub. At Kinzer Coins, Dean has built the premier destination for authenticated ancient coins from Roman, Greek, Byzantine, and Biblical periods. Kinzer Coins’ mission is to bring history to life by connecting their clients with the legacy of ancient civilizations through authentic coins. He hosts the Ancient Coin Hour Podcast, which connects his audience directly with leading numismatists and ancient coin experts. The podcast helps listeners avoid common pitfalls while building an investment-grade collection that appreciates in both financial and historical value. Dean’s father was a numismatics expert himself, and taught Dean to recognize authentic ancient artifacts, understand their historical significance, and connect people with tangible pieces of history. He received a Master's Degree from Northern Illinois University with a Certificate in Leadership.
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Updated: July 25, 2025
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