Top 10 Most Valuable Dime Coins – Why These Dimes Are Worth Over $1 Million

Dimes may not initially come to mind as highly valuable coins, but certain examples have reached astonishing values due to their rarity, condition, or historical significance. These dimes captivate both collectors and investors, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of numismatics. Let’s explore the 10 most expensive dimes and uncover what makes them so special.

The 10 Most Valuable Dimes

1. 1860-O Seated Liberty Dime (MS67)

• Mintage: Only 40,000 dimes were minted in New Orleans, the lowest mintage for any New Orleans Seated Liberty dime.
• Surviving Examples: About 400 are believed to exist today.
• Value:
  • G2 (low grade): $700
  • MS64: Sold for $192,000 in 2022
  • MS67: Estimated at $225,000

2. 1843-O Seated Liberty Dime (MS66)

• Mintage: Just 150,000 coins, a significant drop from the previous year.
• Rarity: Only four mint-state examples are known, with the finest graded MS66.
• Value:
  • Last sold in 1996 for $29,700
  • Current estimate: $250,000

3. 1916-D Mercury Dime Full Band (MS67)

• Mintage: 264,000 minted in Denver, making it one of the rarest Mercury dimes.
• Feature: The “Full Bands” designation indicates a sharply struck reverse design, increasing its appeal.
• Value: Estimated at $200,000+ in MS67 Full Bands condition.

4. 1797 Draped Bust Dime, 16 Stars (MS66)

• Design: Features 16 stars, reflecting the number of states in 1797.
• Rarity: Only one known MS66 example exists.
• Value:
  • Sold for $199,750 in 2015
  • Current estimate: $275,000

5. 1797 Draped Bust Dime, 13 Stars (MS65)

• Design: Transitioned to 13 stars to avoid overcrowding on the coin.
• Survival Rate: Only 50 known examples, with five in mint state.
• Value:
  • Sold for $402,500 in 2006
  • Likely valued higher today

6. 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime, Proof (PR68)

• Error: A proof coin mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark at the San Francisco Mint.
• Rarity: Only two known examples exist.
• Value:
  • One sold for $456,000 in 2019

7. 1822 Capped Bust Dime, Proof (PR66+ Cameo)

• Rarity: One of only two known proof coins from 1822.
• Feature: The cameo effect enhances its desirability.
• Value:
  • Sold for $440,625 in 2014
  • Current estimate: $600,000

8. 1796 Draped Bust Dime (MS66+)

• Significance: The first year the U.S. Mint produced dimes, with just 22,000 minted.
• Rarity: Fewer than 100 mint-state examples exist.
• Value:
  • MS66+ sold for $372,000 in 2023
  • MS68 example estimated at $1.25 million

9. 1820 Capped Bust Dime, Proof (PR66)

• Controversy: The existence of a proof coin from 1820 is debated among numismatists.
• Rarity: Only one PR66 example certified by NGC.
• Value:
  • Sold for $156,000 in 2019

10. 1796 Draped Bust Dime, MS68

• Significance: Another standout from the first year of dime production.
• Rarity: The only known MS68 Draped Bust dime.
• Value: PCGS estimates its worth at $1.25 million.

Key Factors That Drive Value

• Rarity: Limited mintage and low survival rates increase demand.
• Condition: Higher grades, such as MS66+ or PR68, significantly boost value.
• Historical Significance: Coins from early mintages or transitional designs hold a special allure.
• Unique Errors: Mistakes like the 1975 No S Proof Dime enhance a coin’s uniqueness and value.

Dimes demonstrate that even small coins can hold immense historical and financial significance. From early Draped Bust designs to modern minting errors, these coins highlight the beauty and intrigue of numismatics. For both seasoned collectors and beginners, understanding these key examples can inspire a deeper appreciation for the stories behind these rare treasures.

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