Some rare coins can fetch extraordinary sums at auction due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique characteristics. Among these, certain dimes and bicentennial quarters are known to be particularly valuable. Here’s a look at three rare million-dollar dimes and quarters, including some that are worth millions:
1. 1916-D Mercury Dime
- Estimated Value: Up to $1.7 million
- The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most famous and rarest dimes ever minted. The 1916-D was part of a series of Mercury Dimes struck between 1916 and 1945, but the 1916-D in particular is sought after by collectors due to its low mintage and high demand. Fewer than 300,000 of these dimes were made at the Denver Mint, making it incredibly scarce.
- Why It’s Valuable: It’s not only rare but also a popular key date in the Mercury Dime series. A well-preserved example, especially in higher grades, can command millions at auction.
2. 1942/1 Mercury Dime (Overdate)
- Estimated Value: $1.5 million
- The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is an overdate variety where the “1” from the 1941 date is still visible under the “2” in the 1942 date. This was the result of an error at the minting process, and only a small number of these overdate coins exist.
- Why It’s Valuable: The overdate error makes it highly collectible. Since there are fewer than 50 known examples, it’s considered a major rarity in the world of dimes.
3. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Proof)
- Estimated Value: $35 million (for specific error or special examples)
- While most 1976 Bicentennial Quarters are worth face value or only slightly more, some rare proof versions or those with minting errors (like the famous “double die” or “wrong planchet” varieties) can fetch extraordinary sums.
- Why It’s Valuable: Most examples of the 1976 Bicentennial quarter are not particularly valuable, but specific error coins or proof versions with unique characteristics can be worth millions if they are in pristine condition or have a significant mistake. The $35 million valuation generally applies to the most extraordinary and rare examples in private hands or specific auction sales.
Summary:
- The 1916-D Mercury Dime and 1942/1 Mercury Dime are two of the most valuable dimes, with the latter having the potential to fetch over a million dollars due to its rarity and overdate error.
- The 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter is generally not worth much unless it has a significant error or other unique feature. Some rare examples of proof versions have been known to fetch millions, especially if they are linked to significant historical milestones or minting mistakes.
Also See: Top 5 Most Rare Coins Worth Over $1,000 That Every Wealthy Collector Covets
| Coin | Estimated Value | Key Features | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | Up to $1.7 million | Low mintage (fewer than 300,000), minted at Denver, key date in the Mercury Dime series. | Rare due to its low mintage and high demand among collectors, especially in high grades. |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime (Overdate) | Up to $1.5 million | Overdate error (the “1” from 1941 is visible under the “2” in 1942). Only a few dozen known examples exist. | The overdate error makes it highly collectible, with fewer than 50 known examples, making it a major rarity. |
| 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter | Up to $35 million (for specific errors) | Proof version with minting errors such as “double die” or “wrong planchet.” Only rare examples with significant errors fetch high values. | Most 1976 Bicentennial Quarters are not valuable, but rare error coins or pristine proof versions can command millions. |
What makes the 1916-D Mercury Dime so rare?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is rare due to its low mintage (only about 264,000 coins were struck). As a result, it is highly sought after by collectors, especially in excellent condition. The scarcity and demand drive its high value.
What is the 1942/1 Mercury Dime and why is it valuable?
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime features an overdate error, where the “1” from the previous year’s coin is still visible beneath the “2” in the 1942 date. This minting error is rare, and only about 50 known examples exist. The rarity and historical significance of this coin contribute to its high value.
Why is the 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter worth so much?
While most 1976 Bicentennial Quarters are worth only face value, some proof versions or those with minting errors (such as double die or wrong planchet) can fetch extraordinary sums at auction.
The $35 million valuation is for specific examples with rare characteristics or historical significance, which are extremely rare and highly collectible.